1
|
Chia L, Wang B, Kim JH, Luo LZ, Shuai S, Herrera I, Chen SY, Li L, Xian L, Huso T, Heydarian M, Reddy K, Sung WJ, Ishiyama S, Guo G, Jaffee E, Zheng L, Cope LM, Gabrielson K, Wood L, Resar L. HMGA1 induces FGF19 to drive pancreatic carcinogenesis and stroma formation. J Clin Invest 2023; 133:151601. [PMID: 36919699 PMCID: PMC10014113 DOI: 10.1172/jci151601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/15/2023] Open
Abstract
High mobility group A1 (HMGA1) chromatin regulators are upregulated in diverse tumors where they portend adverse outcomes, although how they function in cancer remains unclear. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas (PDACs) are highly lethal tumors characterized by dense desmoplastic stroma composed predominantly of cancer-associated fibroblasts and fibrotic tissue. Here, we uncover an epigenetic program whereby HMGA1 upregulates FGF19 during tumor progression and stroma formation. HMGA1 deficiency disrupts oncogenic properties in vitro while impairing tumor inception and progression in KPC mice and subcutaneous or orthotopic models of PDAC. RNA sequencing revealed HMGA1 transcriptional networks governing proliferation and tumor-stroma interactions, including the FGF19 gene. HMGA1 directly induces FGF19 expression and increases its protein secretion by recruiting active histone marks (H3K4me3, H3K27Ac). Surprisingly, disrupting FGF19 via gene silencing or the FGFR4 inhibitor BLU9931 recapitulates most phenotypes observed with HMGA1 deficiency, decreasing tumor growth and formation of a desmoplastic stroma in mouse models of PDAC. In human PDAC, overexpression of HMGA1 and FGF19 defines a subset of tumors with extremely poor outcomes. Our results reveal what we believe is a new paradigm whereby HMGA1 and FGF19 drive tumor progression and stroma formation, thus illuminating FGF19 as a rational therapeutic target for a molecularly defined PDAC subtype.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lionel Chia
- Pathobiology Graduate Program, Department of Pathology and.,Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Bowen Wang
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Program, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jung-Hyun Kim
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Li Z Luo
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Shuai Shuai
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Iliana Herrera
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Liping Li
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Lingling Xian
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Tait Huso
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | | | - Woo Jung Sung
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Shun Ishiyama
- Department of Pathology.,Department of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology
| | - Gongbo Guo
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | | | - Leslie M Cope
- Department of Oncology, and.,Division of Biostatistics, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Laura Wood
- Pathobiology Graduate Program, Department of Pathology and.,Department of Pathology.,Department of Oncology, and
| | - Linda Resar
- Pathobiology Graduate Program, Department of Pathology and.,Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Program, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Department of Pathology.,Department of Oncology, and
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Zhang H, Huang J, Chen R, Cai H, Chen Y, He S, Xu J, Zhang J, Wang L. Ligand- and structure-based identification of novel CDK9 inhibitors for the potential treatment of leukemia. Bioorg Med Chem 2022; 72:116994. [PMID: 36087428 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2022.116994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 08/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Cyclin-dependent kinase 9 (CDK9) plays a vital role in controlling cell transcription and has been an attractive target for cancer treatment. Herein, ten predictive models derived from 1330 unique molecules against CDK9 were constructed based on molecular fingerprints and graphs using two conventional machine learning and four deep learning methods. The evaluation results showed that FP-GNN deep learning architecture performed best for CDK9 inhibitors prediction with the highest BA and F1 values of 0.681 and 0.912 for testing set. We then performed virtual screening to identify new CDK9 inhibitors by incorporating the optimal established predictive model and molecular docking. Five compounds were identified to show broad anticancer activity against various cancer cell lines through bioassays. For example, C9 exhibited antiproliferative activities against HeLa, MOLM-13 and MDA-MB-231 with IC50 values of 2.53, 3.92 and 11.65 μM. Kinase inhibition assay results demonstrated that these compounds displayed submicromolar (214 ∼ 504 nM) inhibitory activities against CDK9. Further cellular mechanism evaluation revealed that C9 suppressed the activity of CDK9 and interfered with the expression of Mcl-1 and cleaved PARP in MOLM-13 cells, resulting in the induction of cellular apoptosis. In addition, C9 displayed a good stability in rat liver microsomes, artificial gastrointestinal fluid and plasm. An online platform (called DEEPCDK9Pred) was developed based on the FP-GNN models to predict or design new CDK9 inhibitors. Collectively, our findings demonstrated that FP-GNN algorithm can achieve accurate prediction of CDK9 inhibitors and the subsequent discovery of C9 as a new potential CDK9 inhibitor deserves further structural modification for the treatment of leukemia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huimin Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Fermentation and Enzyme Engineering, Joint International Research Laboratory of Synthetic Biology and Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Engineering and Technology Research Center of Biopharmaceuticals, School of Biology and Biological Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Jindi Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Fermentation and Enzyme Engineering, Joint International Research Laboratory of Synthetic Biology and Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Engineering and Technology Research Center of Biopharmaceuticals, School of Biology and Biological Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Rui Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants & College of Pharmacy, Guizhou Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Chemical Drug R&D, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550004, China
| | - Hanxuan Cai
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Fermentation and Enzyme Engineering, Joint International Research Laboratory of Synthetic Biology and Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Engineering and Technology Research Center of Biopharmaceuticals, School of Biology and Biological Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Yihao Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Fermentation and Enzyme Engineering, Joint International Research Laboratory of Synthetic Biology and Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Engineering and Technology Research Center of Biopharmaceuticals, School of Biology and Biological Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Shuyun He
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Fermentation and Enzyme Engineering, Joint International Research Laboratory of Synthetic Biology and Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Engineering and Technology Research Center of Biopharmaceuticals, School of Biology and Biological Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Jianrong Xu
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China; Academy of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Jiquan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants & College of Pharmacy, Guizhou Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Chemical Drug R&D, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550004, China
| | - Ling Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Fermentation and Enzyme Engineering, Joint International Research Laboratory of Synthetic Biology and Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Engineering and Technology Research Center of Biopharmaceuticals, School of Biology and Biological Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Li L, Kim JH, Lu W, Williams DM, Kim J, Cope L, Rampal RK, Koche RP, Xian L, Luo LZ, Vasiljevic M, Matson DR, Zhao ZJ, Rogers O, Stubbs MC, Reddy K, Romero AR, Psaila B, Spivak JL, Moliterno AR, Resar LMS. HMGA1 chromatin regulators induce transcriptional networks involved in GATA2 and proliferation during MPN progression. Blood 2022; 139:2797-2815. [PMID: 35286385 PMCID: PMC9074401 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2021013925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) transform to myelofibrosis (MF) and highly lethal acute myeloid leukemia (AML), although the actionable mechanisms driving progression remain elusive. Here, we elucidate the role of the high mobility group A1 (HMGA1) chromatin regulator as a novel driver of MPN progression. HMGA1 is upregulated in MPN, with highest levels after transformation to MF or AML. To define HMGA1 function, we disrupted gene expression via CRISPR/Cas9, short hairpin RNA, or genetic deletion in MPN models. HMGA1 depletion in JAK2V617F AML cell lines disrupts proliferation, clonogenicity, and leukemic engraftment. Surprisingly, loss of just a single Hmga1 allele prevents progression to MF in JAK2V617F mice, decreasing erythrocytosis, thrombocytosis, megakaryocyte hyperplasia, and expansion of stem and progenitors, while preventing splenomegaly and fibrosis within the spleen and BM. RNA-sequencing and chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing revealed HMGA1 transcriptional networks and chromatin occupancy at genes that govern proliferation (E2F, G2M, mitotic spindle) and cell fate, including the GATA2 master regulatory gene. Silencing GATA2 recapitulates most phenotypes observed with HMGA1 depletion, whereas GATA2 re-expression partially rescues leukemogenesis. HMGA1 transactivates GATA2 through sequences near the developmental enhancer (+9.5), increasing chromatin accessibility and recruiting active histone marks. Further, HMGA1 transcriptional networks, including proliferation pathways and GATA2, are activated in human MF and MPN leukemic transformation. Importantly, HMGA1 depletion enhances responses to the JAK2 inhibitor, ruxolitinib, preventing MF and prolonging survival in murine models of JAK2V617F AML. These findings illuminate HMGA1 as a key epigenetic switch involved in MPN transformation and a promising therapeutic target to treat or prevent disease progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liping Li
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, and
| | | | - Wenyan Lu
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, and
| | | | - Joseph Kim
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, and
| | - Leslie Cope
- Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Raajit K Rampal
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Leukemia Service, Department of Medicine, Center for Epigenetics Research, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Institute, New York, NY
| | - Richard P Koche
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Leukemia Service, Department of Medicine, Center for Epigenetics Research, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Institute, New York, NY
| | | | - Li Z Luo
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, and
| | | | - Daniel R Matson
- Blood Cancer Research Institute, Department of Cell and Regenerative Biology, UW Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine, Madison, WI
| | - Zhizhuang Joe Zhao
- Department of Pathology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK
| | | | | | - Karen Reddy
- Department of Biologic Chemistry, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Antonio-Rodriguez Romero
- MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine and National Institutes of Health Research (NIHR) Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; and
| | - Bethan Psaila
- MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine and National Institutes of Health Research (NIHR) Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; and
| | - Jerry L Spivak
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, and
- Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | | | - Linda M S Resar
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, and
- Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Cellular and Molecular Medicine Graduate Program and
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Chantkran W, Hsieh YC, Zheleva D, Frame S, Wheadon H, Copland M. Interrogation of novel CDK2/9 inhibitor fadraciclib (CYC065) as a potential therapeutic approach for AML. Cell Death Dis 2021; 7:137. [PMID: 34112754 PMCID: PMC8192769 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-021-00496-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 04/04/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Over the last 50 years, there has been a steady improvement in the treatment outcome of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). However, median survival in the elderly is still poor due to intolerance to intensive chemotherapy and higher numbers of patients with adverse cytogenetics. Fadraciclib (CYC065), a novel cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) 2/9 inhibitor, has preclinical efficacy in AML. In AML cell lines, myeloid cell leukemia 1 (MCL-1) was downregulated following treatment with fadraciclib, resulting in a rapid induction of apoptosis. In addition, RNA polymerase II (RNAPII)-driven transcription was suppressed, rendering a global gene suppression. Rapid induction of apoptosis was observed in primary AML cells after treatment with fadraciclib for 6-8 h. Twenty-four hours continuous treatment further increased efficacy of fadraciclib. Although preliminary results showed that AML cell lines harboring KMT2A rearrangement (KMT2A-r) are more sensitive to fadraciclib, we found that the drug can induce apoptosis and decrease MCL-1 expression in primary AML cells, regardless of KMT2A status. Importantly, the diversity of genetic mutations observed in primary AML patient samples was associated with variable response to fadraciclib, confirming the need for patient stratification to enable a more effective and personalized treatment approach. Synergistic activity was demonstrated when fadraciclib was combined with the BCL-2 inhibitor venetoclax, or the conventional chemotherapy agents, cytarabine, or azacitidine, with the combination of fadraciclib and azacitidine having the most favorable therapeutic window. In summary, these results highlight the potential of fadraciclib as a novel therapeutic approach for AML.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wittawat Chantkran
- grid.8756.c0000 0001 2193 314XPaul O’Gorman Leukaemia Research Centre, Institute of Cancer Sciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK ,grid.10223.320000 0004 1937 0490Department of Pathology, Phramongkutklao College of Medicine, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Ya-Ching Hsieh
- grid.8756.c0000 0001 2193 314XPaul O’Gorman Leukaemia Research Centre, Institute of Cancer Sciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | | | - Sheelagh Frame
- grid.481607.c0000 0004 0397 2104Cyclacel Limited, Dundee, UK
| | - Helen Wheadon
- grid.8756.c0000 0001 2193 314XPaul O’Gorman Leukaemia Research Centre, Institute of Cancer Sciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Mhairi Copland
- grid.8756.c0000 0001 2193 314XPaul O’Gorman Leukaemia Research Centre, Institute of Cancer Sciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Zeidner JF, Lee DJ, Frattini M, Fine GD, Costas J, Kolibaba K, Anthony SP, Bearss D, Smith BD. Phase I Study of Alvocidib Followed by 7+3 (Cytarabine + Daunorubicin) in Newly Diagnosed Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Clin Cancer Res 2020; 27:60-69. [PMID: 32998965 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-20-2649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Alvocidib is a cyclin-dependent kinase 9 inhibitor leading to downregulation of the antiapoptotic BCL-2 family member, MCL-1. Alvocidib has shown clinical activity in a timed sequential regimen with cytarabine and mitoxantrone in relapsed/refractory and newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia (AML) but has not been studied in combination with traditional 7+3 induction therapy. PATIENTS AND METHODS A multiinstitutional phase I dose-escalation study of alvocidib on days 1-3 followed by 7+3 (cytarabine 100 mg/m2/day i.v. infusion days 5-12 and daunorubicin 60 mg/m2 i.v. days 5-7) was performed in newly diagnosed AML ≤65 years. Core-binding factor AML was excluded. RESULTS There was no MTD on this study; the recommended phase II dose of alvocidib was 30 mg/m2 i.v. over 30 minutes followed by 60 mg/m2 i.v. infusion over 4 hours. There was one dose-limiting toxicity of cytokine release syndrome. The most common grade ≥3 nonhematologic toxicities were diarrhea (44%) and tumor lysis syndrome (34%). Overall, 69% (22/32) of patients achieved complete remission (CR). In an exploratory cohort, eight of nine (89%) patients in complete remission had no measurable residual disease, as determined by a centralized flow cytometric assay. Clinical activity was seen in patients with secondary AML, AML with myelodysplastic syndrome-related changes, and a genomic signature of secondary AML (50%, 50%, and 92% CR rates, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Alvocidib can be safely administered prior to 7+3 induction with encouraging clinical activity. These findings warrant further investigation of alvocidib combinations in newly diagnosed AML. This study was registered at clinicaltrials.gov identifier NCT03298984.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joshua F Zeidner
- University of North Carolina, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
| | - Daniel J Lee
- Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Mark Frattini
- Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
- Celgene, Summit, New Jersey
| | - Gil D Fine
- Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma Oncology, Lehi, Utah
| | - Judy Costas
- Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma Oncology, Lehi, Utah
| | | | | | | | - B Douglas Smith
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baltimore, Maryland
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Pegoraro S, Ros G, Sgubin M, Petrosino S, Zambelli A, Sgarra R, Manfioletti G. Targeting the intrinsically disordered architectural High Mobility Group A (HMGA) oncoproteins in breast cancer: learning from the past to design future strategies. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2020; 24:953-969. [PMID: 32970506 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2020.1814738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most difficult breast cancer subtype to treat because of its heterogeneity and lack of specific therapeutic targets. High Mobility Group A (HMGA) proteins are chromatin architectural factors that have multiple oncogenic functions in breast cancer, and they represent promising molecular therapeutic targets for this disease. AREAS COVERED We offer an overview of the strategies that have been exploited to counteract HMGA oncoprotein activities at the transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels. We also present the possibility of targeting cancer-associated factors that lie downstream of HMGA proteins and discuss the contribution of HMGA proteins to chemoresistance. EXPERT OPINION Different strategies have been exploited to counteract HMGA protein activities; these involve interfering with their nucleic acid binding properties and the blocking of HMGA expression. Some approaches have provided promising results. However, some unique characteristics of the HMGA proteins have not been exploited; these include their extensive protein-protein interaction network and their intrinsically disordered status that present the possibility that HMGA proteins could be involved in the formation of proteinaceous membrane-less organelles (PMLO) by liquid-liquid phase separation. These unexplored characteristics could open new pharmacological avenues to counteract the oncogenic contributions of HMGA proteins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Pegoraro
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste , Trieste, Italy
| | - Gloria Ros
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste , Trieste, Italy
| | - Michela Sgubin
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste , Trieste, Italy
| | - Sara Petrosino
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste , Trieste, Italy
| | | | - Riccardo Sgarra
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste , Trieste, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Minervini A, Coccaro N, Anelli L, Zagaria A, Specchia G, Albano F. HMGA Proteins in Hematological Malignancies. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E1456. [PMID: 32503270 PMCID: PMC7353061 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12061456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Revised: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The high mobility group AT-Hook (HMGA) proteins are a family of nonhistone chromatin remodeling proteins known as "architectural transcriptional factors". By binding the minor groove of AT-rich DNA sequences, they interact with the transcription apparatus, altering the chromatin modeling and regulating gene expression by either enhancing or suppressing the binding of the more usual transcriptional activators and repressors, although they do not themselves have any transcriptional activity. Their involvement in both benign and malignant neoplasias is well-known and supported by a large volume of studies. In this review, we focus on the role of the HMGA proteins in hematological malignancies, exploring the mechanisms through which they enhance neoplastic transformation and how this knowledge could be exploited to devise tailored therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Francesco Albano
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation (D.E.T.O.), Hematology Section, University of Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy; (A.M.); (N.C.); (L.A.); (A.Z.); (G.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
De Martino M, Fusco A, Esposito F. HMGA and Cancer: A Review on Patent Literatures. Recent Pat Anticancer Drug Discov 2020; 14:258-267. [PMID: 31538905 DOI: 10.2174/1574892814666190919152001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Revised: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 09/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The high mobility group A proteins modulate the transcription of numerous genes by interacting with transcription factors and/or altering the structure of chromatin. These proteins are involved in both benign and malignant neoplasias as a result of several pathways. A large amount of benign human mesenchymal tumors has rearrangements of HMGA genes. On the contrary, malignant tumors show unarranged HMGA overexpression that is frequently and causally related to neoplastic cell transformation. Here, we review the function of the HMGA proteins in human neoplastic disorders, the pathways by which they contribute to carcinogenesis and the new patents focused on targeting HMGA proteins. OBJECTIVE Current review was conducted to check the involvement of HMGA as a druggable target in cancer treatment. METHODS We reviewed the most recent patents focused on targeting HMGA in cancer treatment analyzing patent literature published during the last years, including the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO®), United States Patent Trademark Office (USPTO®), Espacenet®, and Google Patents. RESULTS HMGA proteins are intriguing targets for cancer therapy and are objects of different patents based on the use of DNA aptamers, inhibitors, oncolytic viruses, antisense molecules able to block their oncogenic functions. CONCLUSION Powerful strategies able to selectively interfere with HMGA expression and function could represent a helpful approach in the development of new anti-cancer therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marco De Martino
- Istituto di Endocrinologia e Oncologia Sperimentale-CNR c/o Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Universita degli Studi di Napoli "Federico II", via Pansini 5, Naples 80131, Italy.,Department of Psychology, University of Campania, Caserta 81100, Italy
| | - Alfredo Fusco
- Istituto di Endocrinologia e Oncologia Sperimentale-CNR c/o Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Universita degli Studi di Napoli "Federico II", via Pansini 5, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Francesco Esposito
- Istituto di Endocrinologia e Oncologia Sperimentale-CNR c/o Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Universita degli Studi di Napoli "Federico II", via Pansini 5, Naples 80131, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Tibes R, Bogenberger JM. Transcriptional Silencing of MCL-1 Through Cyclin-Dependent Kinase Inhibition in Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Front Oncol 2019; 9:1205. [PMID: 31921615 PMCID: PMC6920180 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.01205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is the most common adult acute leukemia. Survival remains poor, despite decades of scientific advances. Cytotoxic induction chemotherapy regimens are standard-of-care for most patients. Many investigations have highlighted the genomic heterogeneity of AML, and several new targeted therapeutic options have recently been approved. Additional novel therapies are showing promising clinical results and may rapidly transform the therapeutic landscape of AML. Despite the emerging clinical success of B-cell lymphoma (BCL)-2 targeting in AML and a large body of preclinical data supporting myeloid leukemia cell (MCL)-1 as an attractive therapeutic target for AML, MCL-1 targeting remains relatively unexplored, although novel MCL-1 inhibitors are under clinical investigation. Inhibitors of cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) involved in the regulation of transcription, CDK9 in particular, are being investigated in AML as a strategy to target MCL-1 indirectly. In this article, we review the basis for CDK inhibition in oncology with a focus on relevant preclinical mechanism-of-action studies of CDK9 inhibitors in the context of their therapeutic potential specifically in AML.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raoul Tibes
- NYU School of Medicine & Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, United States
| | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Palumbo Júnior A, de Sousa VPL, Esposito F, De Martino M, Forzati F, Moreira FCDB, Simão TDA, Nasciutti LE, Fusco A, Ribeiro Pinto LF, Bessa Pereira Chaves C, Meireles Da Costa N. Overexpression of HMGA1 Figures as a Potential Prognostic Factor in Endometrioid Endometrial Carcinoma (EEC). Genes (Basel) 2019; 10:genes10050372. [PMID: 31096664 PMCID: PMC6562754 DOI: 10.3390/genes10050372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Revised: 05/06/2019] [Accepted: 05/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometrioid endometrial carcinomas (EEC) are the most common malignant gynecologic tumors. Despite the increase in EEC molecular knowledge, the identification of new biomarkers involved in disease's development and/or progression would represent an improvement in its course. High-mobility group A protein (HMGA) family members are frequently overexpressed in a wide range of malignancies, correlating with a poor prognosis. Thus, the aim of this study was to analyze HMGA1 and HMGA2 expression pattern and their potential role as EEC biomarkers. HMGA1 and HMGA2 expression was initially evaluated in a series of 46 EEC tumors (stages IA to IV), and the findings were then validated in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) EEC cohort, comprising 381 EEC tumors (stages IA to IV). Our results reveal that HMGA1 and HMGA2 mRNA and protein are overexpressed in ECC, but only HMGA1 expression is associated with increased histological grade and tumor size. Moreover, HMGA1 but not HMGA2 overexpression was identified as a negative prognostic factor to EEC patients. Finally, a positive correlation between expression of HMGA1 pseudogenes-HMGA1-P6 and HMGA1-P7-and HMGA1 itself was detected, suggesting HMGA1 pseudogenes may play a role in HMGA1 expression regulation in EEC. Thus, these results indicate that HMGA1 overexpression possesses a potential role as a prognostic biomarker for EEC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Palumbo Júnior
- Programa de Carcinogênese Molecular, Instituto Nacional de Câncer-INCA, Rua André Cavalcanti, 37 - Centro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 20231-050, Brazil.
- Laboratório de Interações Celulares, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro Prédio de Ciências da Saúde-Cidade Universitária, Ilha do Fundão, A. Carlos Chagas, 373-bloco F, sala 26, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21941-902, Brasil.
| | - Vanessa Paiva Leite de Sousa
- Programa de Carcinogênese Molecular, Instituto Nacional de Câncer-INCA, Rua André Cavalcanti, 37 - Centro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 20231-050, Brazil.
| | - Francesco Esposito
- Istituto di Endocrinologia e Oncologia Sperimentale-CNR c/o Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli "Federico II", via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy.
| | - Marco De Martino
- Istituto di Endocrinologia e Oncologia Sperimentale-CNR c/o Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli "Federico II", via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy.
| | - Floriana Forzati
- Istituto di Endocrinologia e Oncologia Sperimentale-CNR c/o Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli "Federico II", via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy.
| | - Fábio Carvalho de Barros Moreira
- Divisão de Patologia, Instituto Nacional de Câncer-INCA, Rua Cordeiro da Graça, 156-Santo Cristo, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 20220-040, Brazil.
| | - Tatiana de Almeida Simão
- Programa de Carcinogênese Molecular, Instituto Nacional de Câncer-INCA, Rua André Cavalcanti, 37 - Centro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 20231-050, Brazil.
- Laboratório de Toxicologia e Biologia Molecular, Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Biologia Roberto Alcântara Gomes, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Av. 28 de setembro, 87-fundos-4º andar, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 20551-030, Brazil.
| | - Luiz Eurico Nasciutti
- Laboratório de Interações Celulares, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro Prédio de Ciências da Saúde-Cidade Universitária, Ilha do Fundão, A. Carlos Chagas, 373-bloco F, sala 26, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21941-902, Brasil.
| | - Alfredo Fusco
- Programa de Carcinogênese Molecular, Instituto Nacional de Câncer-INCA, Rua André Cavalcanti, 37 - Centro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 20231-050, Brazil.
- Istituto di Endocrinologia e Oncologia Sperimentale-CNR c/o Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli "Federico II", via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy.
| | - Luis Felipe Ribeiro Pinto
- Programa de Carcinogênese Molecular, Instituto Nacional de Câncer-INCA, Rua André Cavalcanti, 37 - Centro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 20231-050, Brazil.
| | - Cláudia Bessa Pereira Chaves
- Programa de Carcinogênese Molecular, Instituto Nacional de Câncer-INCA, Rua André Cavalcanti, 37 - Centro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 20231-050, Brazil.
- Seção de Ginecologia Oncológica, Hospital de Câncer II, Instituto Nacional de Câncer-INCA, Rua Equador, 835. Santo Cristo, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 20220-410, Brazil.
| | - Nathalia Meireles Da Costa
- Programa de Carcinogênese Molecular, Instituto Nacional de Câncer-INCA, Rua André Cavalcanti, 37 - Centro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 20231-050, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Kadia TM, Kantarjian HM, Konopleva M. Myeloid cell leukemia-1 dependence in acute myeloid leukemia: a novel approach to patient therapy. Oncotarget 2019; 10:1250-1265. [PMID: 30815228 PMCID: PMC6383813 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.26579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2018] [Accepted: 12/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is the most common form of acute leukemia in adults, affecting approximately 21,000 people annually (nearly 11,000 deaths) in the United States. B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL-2) family proteins, notably myeloid cell leukemia-1 (MCL-1), have been associated with both the development and persistence of AML. MCL-1 is one of the predominant BCL-2 family members expressed in samples from patients with untreated AML. MCL-1 is a critical cell survival factor for cancer and contributes to chemotherapy resistance by directly affecting cell death pathways. Here, we review the role of MCL-1 in AML and the mechanisms by which the potent cyclin-dependent kinase 9 inhibitor alvocidib, through regulation of MCL-1, may serve as a rational therapeutic approach against the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Marina Konopleva
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Litzow MR, Wang XV, Carroll MP, Karp JE, Ketterling RP, Zhang Y, Kaufmann SH, Lazarus HM, Luger SM, Paietta EM, Pratz KW, Tun HW, Altman JK, Broun ER, Rybka WB, Rowe JM, Tallman MS. A randomized trial of three novel regimens for recurrent acute myeloid leukemia demonstrates the continuing challenge of treating this difficult disease. Am J Hematol 2019; 94:111-117. [PMID: 30370956 DOI: 10.1002/ajh.25333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Revised: 10/21/2018] [Accepted: 10/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
To improve the outcome of relapsed/refractory acute myeloid leukemia (AML), a randomized phase II trial of three novel regimens was conducted. Ninety patients were enrolled and were in first relapse or were refractory to induction/re-induction chemotherapy. They were randomized to the following regimens: carboplatin-topotecan (CT), each by continuous infusion for 5 days; alvocidib (formerly flavopiridol), cytarabine, and mitoxantrone (FLAM) in a timed sequential regimen; or sirolimus combined with mitoxantrone, etoposide, and cytarabine (S-MEC). The primary objective was attainment of a complete remission (CR). A Simon two-stage design was used for each of the three arms. The median age of the patients in the FLAM arm was older at 62 years compared with 55 years for the CT arm and the S-MEC arm. The overall response was 14% in the CT arm (5/35, 90% CI 7%-35%), 28% in the FLAM arm (10/36, 90% CI, 16%-43%), and 16% in the S-MEC arm (3/19, 90% CI, 4%-36%). There were nine treatment-related deaths, seven of which occurred in the FLAM arm with four of these in elderly patients. We conclude that the FLAM regimen had an encouraging response rate and should be considered for further clinical development but should be used with caution in elderly patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mark R. Litzow
- Departments of Hematology; Mayo Clinic; Rochester Minnesota
| | - Xin V. Wang
- Biostatistics and Computational Biology; Dana Farber Cancer Institute; Boston Massachusetts
| | - Martin P. Carroll
- Oncology; Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania; Philadelphia Pennsylvania
| | - Judith E. Karp
- Hematology/Medical Oncology; Johns Hopkins University; Baltimore Maryland
| | - Rhett P. Ketterling
- Departments of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology; Mayo Clinic; Rochester Minnesota
| | - Yanming Zhang
- Departments of Pathology; Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center; New York New York
| | | | - Hillard M. Lazarus
- Seidman Cancer Center; University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University; Cleveland Ohio
| | - Selina M. Luger
- Oncology; Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania; Philadelphia Pennsylvania
| | - Elisabeth M. Paietta
- Oncology; Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center; Bronx New York
| | - Keith W. Pratz
- Hematology/Medical Oncology; Johns Hopkins University; Baltimore Maryland
| | - Han Win Tun
- Hematology/Oncology; Mayo Clinic; Jacksonville Florida
| | - Jessica K. Altman
- Hematology/Medical Oncology; Northwestern University School of Medicine; Chicago Illinois
| | - Edward R. Broun
- Hematology/Oncology; Oncology Hematology Care, Inc, Jewish Hospital; Cincinnati Ohio
| | - Witold B. Rybka
- Medicine and Pathology; Penn State Hershey Cancer Institute; Hershey Pennsylvania
| | - Jacob M. Rowe
- Department of Hematology; Shaare Zedek Medical Center; Jerusalem Israel
| | - Martin S. Tallman
- Hematology/Oncology; Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center; New York New York
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Critical Evaluation of Gene Expression Changes in Human Tissues in Response to Supplementation with Dietary Bioactive Compounds: Moving Towards Better-Quality Studies. Nutrients 2018; 10:nu10070807. [PMID: 29932449 PMCID: PMC6073419 DOI: 10.3390/nu10070807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2018] [Revised: 06/14/2018] [Accepted: 06/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Pre-clinical cell and animal nutrigenomic studies have long suggested the modulation of the transcription of multiple gene targets in cells and tissues as a potential molecular mechanism of action underlying the beneficial effects attributed to plant-derived bioactive compounds. To try to demonstrate these molecular effects in humans, a considerable number of clinical trials have now explored the changes in the expression levels of selected genes in various human cell and tissue samples following intervention with different dietary sources of bioactive compounds. In this review, we have compiled a total of 75 human studies exploring gene expression changes using quantitative reverse transcription PCR (RT-qPCR). We have critically appraised the study design and methodology used as well as the gene expression results reported. We herein pinpoint some of the main drawbacks and gaps in the experimental strategies applied, as well as the high interindividual variability of the results and the limited evidence supporting some of the investigated genes as potential responsive targets. We reinforce the need to apply normalized procedures and follow well-established methodological guidelines in future studies in order to achieve improved and reliable results that would allow for more relevant and biologically meaningful results.
Collapse
|
14
|
Boffo S, Damato A, Alfano L, Giordano A. CDK9 inhibitors in acute myeloid leukemia. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2018; 37:36. [PMID: 29471852 PMCID: PMC5824552 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-018-0704-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2017] [Accepted: 02/12/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Current treatment for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is less than optimal, but increased understanding of disease pathobiology and genomics has led to clinical investigation of novel targeted therapies and rational combinations. Targeting the cyclin-dependent kinase 9 (CDK9) pathway, which is dysregulated in AML, is an attractive approach. Inhibition of CDK9 leads to downregulation of cell survival genes regulated by super enhancers such as MCL-1, MYC, and cyclin D1. As CDK9 inhibitors are nonselective, predictive biomarkers that may help identify patients most likely to respond to CDK9 inhibitors are now being utilized, with the goal of improving efficacy and safety.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Boffo
- Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biology, Temple University, 1900 N. 12th St., Room 431, Philadelphia, PA 19122-6017 USA
| | - Angela Damato
- Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biology, Temple University, 1900 N. 12th St., Room 431, Philadelphia, PA 19122-6017 USA
- Medical Oncology Unit, Clinical Cancer Centre, IRCCS–Arcispedale S. Maria Nuova, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Luigi Alfano
- Oncology Research Center of Mercogliano (CROM), Istituto Nazionale Per Lo Studio E La Cura Dei Tumori “Fondazione Giovanni Pascale”, IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Giordano
- Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biology, Temple University, 1900 N. 12th St., Room 431, Philadelphia, PA 19122-6017 USA
- Department of Medicine, Surgery, and Neuroscience, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Li X, Lu J, Kan Q, Li X, Fan Q, Li Y, Huang R, Slipicevic A, Dong HP, Eide L, Wang J, Zhang H, Berge V, Goscinski MA, Kvalheim G, Nesland JM, Suo Z. Metabolic reprogramming is associated with flavopiridol resistance in prostate cancer DU145 cells. Sci Rep 2017; 7:5081. [PMID: 28698547 PMCID: PMC5506068 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-05086-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2016] [Accepted: 05/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Flavopiridol (FP) is a pan-cyclin dependent kinase inhibitor, which shows strong efficacy in inducing cancer cell apoptosis. Although FP is potent against most cancer cells in vitro, unfortunately it proved less efficacious in clinical trials in various aggressive cancers. To date, the molecular mechanisms of the FP resistance are mostly unknown. Here, we report that a small fraction human prostate cancer DU145 cells can survive long-term FP treatment and emerge as FP-resistant cells (DU145FP). These DU145FP cells show accumulated mitochondrial lesions with stronger glycolytic features, and they proliferate in slow-cycling and behave highly migratory with strong anti-apoptotic potential. In addition, the cells are less sensitive to cisplatin and docetaxel-induced apoptotic pressure, and over-express multiple stem cell associated biomarkers. Our studies collectively uncover for the first time that FP-resistant prostate cancer cells show metabolic remodeling, and the metabolic plasticity might be required for the FP resistance-associated cancer cell stemness up-regulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoran Li
- Department of Pathology, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, 0379, Norway
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, 0318, Norway
| | - Jie Lu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China
| | - Quancheng Kan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China
| | - Xiaoli Li
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Qiong Fan
- Department of Nutrition, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, 0316, Norway
| | - Yaqing Li
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Ruixia Huang
- Department of Radiation Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, 0379, Norway
| | - Ana Slipicevic
- Department of Pathology, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, 0379, Norway
| | - Hiep Phuc Dong
- Department of Pathology, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, 0379, Norway
| | - Lars Eide
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, University of Oslo and Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, 0372, Norway
| | - Junbai Wang
- Department of Pathology, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, 0379, Norway
| | - Hongquan Zhang
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology and Tumor Biology, Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Viktor Berge
- Department of Urology, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, 0379, Norway
| | - Mariusz Adam Goscinski
- Departments of Surgery, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Institute for Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, 0379, Norway
| | - Gunnar Kvalheim
- Department of Cell Therapy, Cancer Institute, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, 0379, Norway
| | - Jahn M Nesland
- Department of Pathology, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, 0379, Norway
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, 0318, Norway
| | - Zhenhe Suo
- Department of Pathology, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, 0379, Norway.
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, 0318, Norway.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Sumter TF, Xian L, Huso T, Koo M, Chang YT, Almasri TN, Chia L, Inglis C, Reid D, Resar LMS. The High Mobility Group A1 (HMGA1) Transcriptome in Cancer and Development. Curr Mol Med 2016; 16:353-93. [PMID: 26980699 DOI: 10.2174/1566524016666160316152147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2015] [Revised: 02/15/2016] [Accepted: 03/10/2016] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES Chromatin structure is the single most important feature that distinguishes a cancer cell from a normal cell histologically. Chromatin remodeling proteins regulate chromatin structure and high mobility group A (HMGA1) proteins are among the most abundant, nonhistone chromatin remodeling proteins found in cancer cells. These proteins include HMGA1a/HMGA1b isoforms, which result from alternatively spliced mRNA. The HMGA1 gene is overexpressed in cancer and high levels portend a poor prognosis in diverse tumors. HMGA1 is also highly expressed during embryogenesis and postnatally in adult stem cells. Overexpression of HMGA1 drives neoplastic transformation in cultured cells, while inhibiting HMGA1 blocks oncogenic and cancer stem cell properties. Hmga1 transgenic mice succumb to aggressive tumors, demonstrating that dysregulated expression of HMGA1 causes cancer in vivo. HMGA1 is also required for reprogramming somatic cells into induced pluripotent stem cells. HMGA1 proteins function as ancillary transcription factors that bend chromatin and recruit other transcription factors to DNA. They induce oncogenic transformation by activating or repressing specific genes involved in this process and an HMGA1 "transcriptome" is emerging. Although prior studies reveal potent oncogenic properties of HMGA1, we are only beginning to understand the molecular mechanisms through which HMGA1 functions. In this review, we summarize the list of putative downstream transcriptional targets regulated by HMGA1. We also briefly discuss studies linking HMGA1 to Alzheimer's disease and type-2 diabetes. CONCLUSION Further elucidation of HMGA1 function should lead to novel therapeutic strategies for cancer and possibly for other diseases associated with aberrant HMGA1 expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - L M S Resar
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 720 Rutland Avenue, Ross Research Building, Room 1025, Baltimore, MD 21205-2109, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Hillion J, Roy S, Heydarian M, Cope L, Xian L, Koo M, Luo LZ, Kellyn K, Ronnett BM, Huso T, Armstrong D, Reddy K, Huso DL, Resar LMS. The High Mobility Group A1 (HMGA1) gene is highly overexpressed in human uterine serous carcinomas and carcinosarcomas and drives Matrix Metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) in a subset of tumors. Gynecol Oncol 2016; 141:580-587. [PMID: 27001612 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2016.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2015] [Revised: 03/06/2016] [Accepted: 03/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Although uterine cancer is the fourth most common cause for cancer death in women worldwide, the molecular underpinnings of tumor progression remain poorly understood. The High Mobility Group A1 (HMGA1) gene is overexpressed in aggressive cancers and high levels portend adverse outcomes in diverse tumors. We previously reported that Hmga1a transgenic mice develop uterine tumors with complete penetrance. Because HMGA1 drives tumor progression by inducing MatrixMetalloproteinase (MMP) and other genes involved in invasion, we explored the HMGA1-MMP-2 pathway in uterine cancer. METHODS To investigate MMP-2 in uterine tumors driven by HMGA1, we used a genetic approach with mouse models. Next, we assessed HMGA1 and MMP-2 expression in primary human uterine tumors, including low-grade carcinomas (endometrial endometrioid) and more aggressive tumors (endometrial serous carcinomas, uterine carcinosarcomas/malignant mesodermal mixed tumors). RESULTS Here, we report for the first time that uterine tumor growth is impaired in Hmga1a transgenic mice crossed on to an Mmp-2 deficient background. In human tumors, we discovered that HMGA1 is highest in aggressive carcinosarcomas and serous carcinomas, with lower levels in the more indolent endometrioid carcinomas. Moreover, HMGA1 and MMP-2 were positively correlated, but only in a subset of carcinosarcomas. HMGA1 also occupies the MMP-2 promoter in human carcinosarcoma cells. CONCLUSIONS Together, our studies define a novel HMGA1-MMP-2 pathway involved in a subset of human carcinosarcomas and tumor progression in murine models. Our work also suggests that targeting HMGA1 could be effective adjuvant therapy for more aggressive uterine cancers and provides compelling data for further preclinical studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joelle Hillion
- Hematology Division, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States; Department of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Sujayita Roy
- Hematology Division, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States; Department of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Mohammad Heydarian
- Department of Biologic Chemistry, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Leslie Cope
- Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Lingling Xian
- Hematology Division, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States; Department of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Michael Koo
- Hematology Division, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States; Department of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Li Z Luo
- Hematology Division, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States; Department of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Kathleen Kellyn
- Pathobiology Graduate Program, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States; Department of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Brigitte M Ronnett
- Pathobiology Graduate Program, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Tait Huso
- Hematology Division, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States; Department of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Deborah Armstrong
- Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Karen Reddy
- Department of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States; Department of Biologic Chemistry, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - David L Huso
- Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States; Department of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - L M S Resar
- Hematology Division, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States; Department of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States; Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States; Pathobiology Graduate Program, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States; Department of Pediatrics, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States; Institute for Cellular Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Zhong J, Liu C, Chen YJ, Zhang QH, Yang J, Kang X, Chen SR, Wen GB, Zu XY, Cao RX. The association between S100A13 and HMGA1 in the modulation of thyroid cancer proliferation and invasion. J Transl Med 2016; 14:80. [PMID: 27008379 PMCID: PMC4804518 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-016-0824-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2015] [Accepted: 01/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND S100A13 and high mobility group A (HMGA1) are known to play essential roles in the carcinogenesis and progression of cancer. However, the correlation between S100A13 and HMGA1 during cancer progression is not yet well understood. In this study, we determined the effects of S100A13 on HMGA1 expression in thyroid cancer cells and examined the role of HMGA1 in thyroid cancer progression. METHODS Stable ectopic S100A13 expression TT cellular proliferation was evaluated by nude mice xenografts assays. The effect of lentivirus-mediated S100A13 knockdown on thyroid cancer cellular oncogenic properties were evaluated by MTT, colony formation assays and transwell assays in TPC1 and SW579 cells. The effect of siRNA-mediated HMGA1 knockdown on thyroid cancer cellular proliferation and invasion were evaluated by MTT, colony formation assays and transwell assays. The tissue microarray was performed to investigate the correlation between S100A13 and HMGA1 expression in tumor tissues. RESULTS The ectopic expression of S100A13 could increase tumor growth in a TT cell xenograft mouse model. Moreover, lentivirus-mediated S100A13 knockdown led to the inhibition of cellular oncogenic properties in thyroid cancer cells, and HMGA1 was found to be involved in the effect of S100A13 on thyroid cancer growth and invasion. Furthermore, siRNA-mediated HMGA1 knockdown was proved to inhibit the growth of TPC1 cells and invasive abilities of SW579 cells. Clinically, it was revealed that both S100A13 and HMGA1 showed a higher expression levels in thyroid cancer cases compared with those in matched normal thyroid cases (P = 0.007 and P = 0.000); S100A13 and HMGA1 expressions were identified to be positively correlated (P = 0.004, R = 0.316) when analyzed regardless of thyroid cancer types. CONCLUSIONS This is the first report for the association between HMGA1 and S100A13 expression in the modulation of thyroid cancer growth and invasion. Those results would provide an essential insight into the effect of S100A13 on carcinogenesis of thyroid tumor, rending S100A13 to be potential biological marker for the diagnosis of thyroid cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhong
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, 421001, Hengyang, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Chang Liu
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, 421001, Hengyang, Hunan, People's Republic of China.,Department of Metabolism and Endocrinology, The First People's Hospital of Chenzhou, Luojiajing Road, 102, 423000, Chenzhou, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Ya-jun Chen
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, 421001, Hengyang, Hunan, People's Republic of China.,Department of Metabolism and Endocrinology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, 421001, Hengyang, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Qing-hai Zhang
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, 421001, Hengyang, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Yang
- Department of Metabolism and Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, 421001, Hengyang, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuan Kang
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, 421001, Hengyang, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Si-Rui Chen
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, 421001, Hengyang, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Ge-bo Wen
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, 421001, Hengyang, Hunan, People's Republic of China.,Department of Metabolism and Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, 421001, Hengyang, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Xu-yu Zu
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, 421001, Hengyang, Hunan, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ren-xian Cao
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, 421001, Hengyang, Hunan, People's Republic of China. .,Department of Metabolism and Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, 421001, Hengyang, Hunan, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Knapper S. The FLAM regimen: revisiting time sequential induction therapy for patients with poor-risk acute myeloid leukemia. Haematologica 2016; 100:1105-7. [PMID: 26341523 DOI: 10.3324/haematol.2015.134023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Steven Knapper
- Institute of Cancer and Genetics, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, UK
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Belton A, Xian L, Huso T, Koo M, Luo LZ, Turkson J, Page BDG, Gunning PT, Liu G, Huso DL, Resar LMS. STAT3 inhibitor has potent antitumor activity in B-lineage acute lymphoblastic leukemia cells overexpressing the high mobility group A1 (HMGA1)-STAT3 pathway. Leuk Lymphoma 2016; 57:2681-4. [PMID: 26952843 DOI: 10.3109/10428194.2016.1153089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Amy Belton
- a Hematology Division, Department of Medicine , Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Lingling Xian
- a Hematology Division, Department of Medicine , Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Tait Huso
- a Hematology Division, Department of Medicine , Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Michael Koo
- a Hematology Division, Department of Medicine , Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Li Z Luo
- a Hematology Division, Department of Medicine , Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - James Turkson
- b Cell and Molecular Biology Department , John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii , Honolulu , HI , USA
| | - Brent D G Page
- c Department of Chemistry , University of Toronto , Ontario , Canada
| | - Patrick T Gunning
- c Department of Chemistry , University of Toronto , Ontario , Canada
| | - Guosheng Liu
- d Department of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology , Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - David L Huso
- d Department of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology , Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore , MD , USA ;,e Department of Oncology, Institute for Cellular Engineering , the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Linda M S Resar
- a Hematology Division, Department of Medicine , Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore , MD , USA ;,e Department of Oncology, Institute for Cellular Engineering , the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore , MD , USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Zeidner JF, Karp JE. Clinical activity of alvocidib (flavopiridol) in acute myeloid leukemia. Leuk Res 2015; 39:1312-8. [PMID: 26521988 DOI: 10.1016/j.leukres.2015.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2015] [Revised: 10/01/2015] [Accepted: 10/14/2015] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
There have been minimal therapeutic advancements in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) over the past 4 decades and outcomes remain unsatisfactory. Alvocidib (formerly flavopiridol) is a multi-serine threonine cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor with demonstrable in vitro and clinical activity in AML when combined in a timed sequential chemotherapy regimen, FLAM (alvocidib followed by cytarabine continuous infusion and mitoxantrone). FLAM has been evaluated in sequential phase 1 and phase 2 studies in 149 and 256 relapsed/refractory and newly diagnosed non-favorable risk AML patients, respectively, with encouraging findings in both patient populations warranting further investigation. This review highlights the mechanism of action of alvocidib, pre-clinical studies of alvocidib in AML, and the clinical trials evaluating alvocidib alone and in combination with cytotoxic agents (FLAM) in AML.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joshua F Zeidner
- University of North Carolina, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, NC, United States.
| | - Judith E Karp
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baltimore, MD, United States
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Singh BN, Singh HB, Singh A, Naqvi AH, Singh BR. Dietary phytochemicals alter epigenetic events and signaling pathways for inhibition of metastasis cascade: phytoblockers of metastasis cascade. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2015; 33:41-85. [PMID: 24390421 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-013-9457-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Cancer metastasis is a multistep process in which a cancer cell spreads from the site of the primary lesion, passes through the circulatory system, and establishes a secondary tumor at a new nonadjacent organ or part. Inhibition of cancer progression by dietary phytochemicals (DPs) offers significant promise for reducing the incidence and mortality of cancer. Consumption of DPs in the diet has been linked to a decrease in the rate of metastatic cancer in a number of preclinical animal models and human epidemiological studies. DPs have been reported to modulate the numerous biological events including epigenetic events (noncoding micro-RNAs, histone modification, and DNA methylation) and multiple signaling transduction pathways (Wnt/β-catenin, Notch, Sonic hedgehog, COX-2, EGFR, MAPK-ERK, JAK-STAT, Akt/PI3K/mTOR, NF-κB, AP-1, etc.), which can play a key role in regulation of metastasis cascade. Extensive studies have also been performed to determine the molecular mechanisms underlying antimetastatic activity of DPs, with results indicating that these DPs have significant inhibitory activity at nearly every step of the metastatic cascade. DPs have anticancer effects by inducing apoptosis and by inhibiting cell growth, migration, invasion, and angiogenesis. Growing evidence has also shown that these natural agents potentiate the efficacy of chemotherapy and radiotherapy through the regulation of multiple signaling pathways. In this review, we discuss the variety of molecular mechanisms by which DPs regulate metastatic cascade and highlight the potentials of these DPs as promising therapeutic inhibitors of cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- B N Singh
- Research and Development Division, Sowbhagya Biotech Private Limited, Cherlapally, Hyderabad, 500051, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Tawil M, Bekdash A, Mroueh M, Daher CF, Abi-Habib RJ. Wild Carrot Oil Extract is Selectively Cytotoxic to Human Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cells. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2015; 16:761-7. [DOI: 10.7314/apjcp.2015.16.2.761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
|
24
|
Zu X, Zhong J, Tan J, Tan L, Yang D, Zhang Q, Ding W, Liu W, Wen G, Liu J, Cao R, Jiang Y. TGF-β1 induces HMGA1 expression in human breast cancer cells: implications of the involvement of HMGA1 in TGF-β signaling. Int J Mol Med 2015; 35:693-701. [PMID: 25572132 PMCID: PMC4314408 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2015.2062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2014] [Accepted: 12/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) signaling and high mobility group A (HMGA1) are known to play essential roles in the progression of breast cancer by inducing epithelial-mesenchymal transition. However, the correlation between TGF-β1 and HMGA1 in breast cancer cell is not yet well understood. In this study, we determined the effects of TGF-β1 on HMGA1 expression in breast cancer cells and examined the role of HMGA1 in breast cancer progression. Our results demonstrated that TGF-β1 induced the expression of HMGA1 in both MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells, as shown by RT-qPCR and immunofluorescence staining; however, the TGF-β1-induced expression of HMGA was blocked by treatment of the cells with phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K) signaling inhibitors. Moreover, the HMGA1 promoter activity was found to be activated by TGF-β1 in the MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells and we found that specificity protein 1 (Sp1) was involved in the TGF-β1-induced HMGA1 promoter activity, as shown by luciferase activity assay. Furthermore, the enforced expression of HMGA1 by transfection with a HMGA1 promoter enhanced cellular oncogenic properties, including proliferation, migration and invasion, and a tissue microarray revealed that breast tumors expressing human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) showed higher expression levels of HMGA1 (P=0.007). In addition, higher HMGA1 expression levels were also observed in the ductal breast cancer cases compared with the lobular breast cancer cases (P=0.000). These findings establish the first link between HMGA1 and TGF-β1 in breast cancer, providing further evidence of the pivotal role of HMGA1 in breast cancer progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuyu Zu
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, P.R. China
| | - Jing Zhong
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, P.R. China
| | - Jingjing Tan
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, P.R. China
| | - Li Tan
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, P.R. China
| | - Dong Yang
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, P.R. China
| | - Qinghai Zhang
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, P.R. China
| | - Wenjun Ding
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, P.R. China
| | - Wen Liu
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, P.R. China
| | - Gebo Wen
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, P.R. China
| | - Jianghua Liu
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, P.R. China
| | - Renxian Cao
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, P.R. China
| | - Yuyang Jiang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Graduate School at Shenzhen, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Song Y, Xin X, Zhai X, Xia Z, Shen K. Sequential combination therapy with flavopiridol and autocatalytic caspase-3 driven by amplified hTERT promoter synergistically suppresses human ovarian carcinoma growth in vitro and in mice. J Ovarian Res 2014; 7:121. [PMID: 25528169 PMCID: PMC4302516 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-014-0121-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2014] [Accepted: 12/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Induction of cell apoptosis and regulation of cell cycle are very attractive for treatments of tumors including ovarian carcinoma. Flavopiridol is a potent small molecular cyclin-dependent kinase(cdk) inhibitor, but its antitumor efficacy is not satisfied yet. Caspase-3 play a major role in the transduction of apoptotic signals and the execution of apoptosis in mammalian cells. We have successfully constructed the recombinant adenovirues AdHTVP2G5-rev-casp3 containing autocatalytic caspase-3 (rev-caspase-3) driven by amplified hTERT promoter system (TSTA-hTERTp). In this study, we applied it with flavopiridol to investigate their antitumor effect on ovarian cancer in vitro and in vivo. Methods Cell viabilities were determined using Cell Counting Kit 8 and flow cytometry. RT-PCR and immunoblotting assays were used to detect cellular apoptotic activities. Tumor growth and survival of mice bearing tumors were studied. Results Flavopiridol or AdHTVP2G5-rev-casp3 at low dosage alone was mildly cytotoxic in vitro with a viability rate of 86.5 ± 4.7% for 300 nM flavopiridol and 88.9 ± 5.4% for AdHTVP2G5-rev-casp3 (MOI 20). By contrast, significant synergism of their sequential combination was observed, and the treatment of AdHTVP2G5-rev-casp3 (MOI 20) infection for 72 h, followed by flavopiridol (300 nM) for 48 h, can result in the most synergistic cell death, with cell survival rate and apoptotic rate of 11.6% and 69.7%, respectively. The sequential combination showed synergistic tumor suppression rate of 77.8%, which was significantly higher than that of AdHTVP2G5-rev-casp3 (33.6%) or flavopiridol (40.1%) alone. The mean survival of mice treated with the combination was 286 ± 8 d, which was synergistically longer than that of mice treated with AdHTVP2G5-rev-casp3 (141 ± 14d), flavopiridol (134 ± 10 d) or controls (106 ± 11 d) (P < 0.01). Conclusions The sequential combination of rev-caspase-3 and flavopiridol result in significant synergistic cell killing effects, significant tumor growth suppression and extended survival of mice bearing OVCAR3 cells. The combination should be further explored as a potential clinically useful regimen against ovarian cancer. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13048-014-0121-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yue Song
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, ShengJing Hospital, China Medical University, No. 36, Sanhao street, Heping District, Shen yang, 110004, China.
| | - Xing Xin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, ShengJing Hospital, China Medical University, No. 36, Sanhao street, Heping District, Shen yang, 110004, China.
| | - Xingyue Zhai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, ShengJing Hospital, China Medical University, No. 36, Sanhao street, Heping District, Shen yang, 110004, China.
| | - Zhijun Xia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, ShengJing Hospital, China Medical University, No. 36, Sanhao street, Heping District, Shen yang, 110004, China.
| | - Keng Shen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, No. 1, Shuai fuyuan Hutong, Dongcheng District, Beijing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Yanagisawa BL, Resar LMS. Hitting the bull's eye: targeting HMGA1 in cancer stem cells. Expert Rev Anticancer Ther 2014; 14:23-30. [PMID: 24410339 DOI: 10.1586/14737140.2013.859988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Emerging evidence suggests that when cancer cells hijack normal stem cell properties, they acquire the ability to invade, metastasize to distant sites and evade therapy. Thus, eliminating cancer cells with stem cell properties, or cancer stem cells, is of prime importance for the successful treatment of cancer, regardless of the tissue of origin. Previous efforts to target cancer stem cells (CSCs), however, have been largely unsuccessful. Recent studies led to the discovery of a novel role for the high mobility group A1 (HMGA1) protein as a master regulator in both CSCs and normal embryonic stem cells. Here, we present exciting new work unveiling HMGA1 as a promising target for therapies directed at eradicating CSCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Breann L Yanagisawa
- Department of Medicine, Pathobiology Graduate Program, Hematology Division, Oncology, the Institute for Cellular Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Soner BC, Aktug H, Acikgoz E, Duzagac F, Guven U, Ayla S, Cal C, Oktem G. Induced growth inhibition, cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in CD133+/CD44+ prostate cancer stem cells by flavopiridol. Int J Mol Med 2014; 34:1249-56. [PMID: 25216351 PMCID: PMC4199402 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2014.1930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2014] [Accepted: 09/05/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Flavopiridol is a flavone that inhibits several cyclin-dependent kinases and exhibits potent growth-inhibitory activity, apoptosis and G1-phase arrest in a number of human tumor cell lines. Flavopiridol is currently undergoing investigation in human clinical trials. The present study focused on the effect of flavopiridol in cell proliferation, cell cycle progression and apoptosis in prostate cancer stem cells (CSCs). Therefore, cluster of differentiation 133 (CD133)+high/CD44+high prostate CSCs were isolated from the DU145 human prostate cancer cell line. The cells were treated with flavopiridol in a dose- and time-dependent manner to determine the inhibitory effect. Cell viability and proliferation were analyzed and the efficiency of flavopiridol was assessed using the sphere-forming assay. Flavopiridol was applied to monolayer cultures of CD133high/CD44high human prostate CSCs at the following final concentrations: 100, 300, 500 and 1000 nM. The cultures were incubated for 24, 48 and 72 h. The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) value of the drug was determined as 500 nM for monolayer cells. Dead cells were analyzed prior and subsequent to exposure to increasing flavopiridol doses. Annexin-V and immunofluorescence analyses were performed for the evaluation of apoptotic pathways. According to the results, flavopiridol treatment caused significant growth inhibition at 500 and 1000 nM when compared to the control at 24 h. G0/G1 analysis showed a statistically significant difference between 100 and 500 nM (P<0.005), 100 and 1000 nM (P<0.001), 300 and 1000 nM (P<0.001), and 500 and 1000 nM (P<0.001). Flavopiridol also significantly influenced the cells in the G2/M phase, particularly at high-dose treatments. Flavopiridol induced growth inhibition and apoptosis at the IC50 dose (500 nM), resulting in a significant increase in immunofluorescence staining of caspase-3, caspase-8 and p53. In conclusion, the present results indicated that flavopiridol could be a useful therapeutic agent for prostate CSCs by inhibiting tumor growth and malignant progression, and inducing apoptosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Burak Cem Soner
- Necmettin Erbakan University, Meram Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Pharmacology, 42100, Konya, Turkey
| | - Huseyin Aktug
- Ege University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Bornova 35100, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Eda Acikgoz
- Ege University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Bornova 35100, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Fahriye Duzagac
- Ege University Health Science Institute, Department of Stem Cell, 35100, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Ummu Guven
- Ege University Health Science Institute, Department of Stem Cell, 35100, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Sule Ayla
- Zeynep Kamil Gynecology and Maternity Training and Research Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 34668 Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Cag Cal
- Izmir University of Economics, Faculty of Health Sciences, 35330, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Gulperi Oktem
- Ege University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Bornova 35100, Izmir, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Sequential combination of flavopiridol with Taxol synergistically suppresses human ovarian carcinoma growth. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2014; 291:143-50. [DOI: 10.1007/s00404-014-3408-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2014] [Accepted: 07/30/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
|
29
|
Huso TH, Resar LMS. The high mobility group A1 molecular switch: turning on cancer - can we turn it off? Expert Opin Ther Targets 2014; 18:541-53. [PMID: 24684280 DOI: 10.1517/14728222.2014.900045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Emerging evidence demonstrates that the high mobility group A1 (HMGA1) chromatin remodeling protein is a key molecular switch required by cancer cells for tumor progression and a poorly differentiated, stem-like state. Because the HMGA1 gene and proteins are expressed at high levels in all aggressive tumors studied to date, research is needed to determine how to 'turn off' this master regulatory switch in cancer. AREAS COVERED In this review, we describe prior studies that underscore the central role of HMGA1 in refractory cancers and we discuss approaches to target HMGA1 in cancer therapy. EXPERT OPINION Given the widespread overexpression of HMGA1 in diverse, aggressive tumors, further research to develop technology to target HMGA1 holds immense promise as potent anticancer therapy. Previous work in preclinical models indicates that delivery of short hairpin RNA or interfering RNA molecules to 'switch off' HMGA1 expression dramatically impairs cancer cell growth and tumor progression. The advent of nanoparticle technology to systemically deliver DNA or RNA molecules to tumors brings this approach even closer to clinical applications, although further efforts are needed to translate these advances into therapies for cancer patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tait H Huso
- The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Hematology Division , Ross Research Building, Room 1015, 720 Rutland Avenue, Baltimore MD 21205 , USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Abstract
The loss of regulation of cell proliferation is a key event in leukemic transformation, and the oncogene tribbles (Trib)2 is emerging as a pivotal target of transcription factors in acute leukemias. Deregulation of the transcription factor E2F1, normally repressed by CCAAT enhancer-binding protein α (C/EBPα)-p42, occurs in acute myeloid leukemia (AML), resulting in the perturbation of cell cycle and apoptosis, emphasizing its importance in the molecular pathogenesis of AML. Here we show that E2F family members directly regulate Trib2 in leukemic cells and identify a feedback regulatory loop for E2F1, C/EBPα, and Trib2 in AML cell proliferation and survival. Further analyses revealed that E2F1-mediated Trib2 expression was repressed by C/EBPα-p42, and in normal granulocyte/macrophage progenitor cells, we detect C/EBPα bound to the Trib2 promoter. Pharmacological inhibition of the cell cycle or Trib2 knockdown resulted in a block in AML cell proliferation. Our work proposes a novel paradigm whereby E2F1 plays a key role in the regulation of Trib2 expression important for AML cell proliferation control. Importantly, we identify the contribution of dysregulated C/EBPα and E2F1 to elevated Trib2 expression and leukemic cell survival, which likely contributes to the initiation and maintenance of AML and may have significant implications for normal and malignant hematopoiesis.
Collapse
|
31
|
Yanagisawa BL, Resar LMS. Hitting the bull’s eye: targeting HMGA1 in cancer stem cells. Expert Rev Anticancer Ther 2013. [DOI: 10.1586/14737140.2014.859988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
|
32
|
Bose P, Simmons GL, Grant S. Cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor therapy for hematologic malignancies. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2013; 22:723-38. [PMID: 23647051 PMCID: PMC4039040 DOI: 10.1517/13543784.2013.789859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) regulate cell cycle progression. Certain CDKs (e.g., CDK7, CDK9) also control cellular transcription. Consequently, CDKs represent attractive targets for anticancer drug development, as their aberrant expression is common in diverse malignancies, and CDK inhibition can trigger apoptosis. CDK inhibition may be particularly successful in hematologic malignancies, which are more sensitive to inhibition of cell cycling and apoptosis induction. AREAS COVERED A number of CDK inhibitors, ranging from pan-CDK inhibitors such as flavopiridol (alvocidib) to highly selective inhibitors of specific CDKs (e.g., CDK4/6), such as PD0332991, that are currently in various phases of development, are profiled in this review. Flavopiridol induces cell cycle arrest, and globally represses transcription via CDK9 inhibition. The latter may represent its major mechanism of action via down-regulation of multiple short-lived proteins. In early phase trials, flavopiridol has shown encouraging efficacy across a wide spectrum of hematologic malignancies. Early results with dinaciclib and PD0332991 also appear promising. EXPERT OPINION In general, the antitumor efficacy of CDK inhibitor monotherapy is modest, and rational combinations are being explored, including those involving other targeted agents. While selective CDK4/6 inhibition might be effective against certain malignancies, broad-spectrum CDK inhibition will likely be required for most cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Prithviraj Bose
- Virginia Commonwealth University, Internal Medicine, 1101 E Marshall
St, Sanger Hall, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Gary L Simmons
- Virginia Commonwealth University, Internal Medicine, 1101 E Marshall
St, Sanger Hall, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Steven Grant
- Virginia Commonwealth University, Internal Medicine, 1101 E Marshall
St, Sanger Hall, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Shah SN, Cope L, Poh W, Belton A, Roy S, Talbot CC, Sukumar S, Huso DL, Resar LMS. HMGA1: a master regulator of tumor progression in triple-negative breast cancer cells. PLoS One 2013; 8:e63419. [PMID: 23658826 PMCID: PMC3642138 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0063419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2013] [Accepted: 04/04/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging evidence suggests that tumor cells metastasize by co-opting stem cell transcriptional networks, although the molecular underpinnings of this process are poorly understood. Here, we show for the first time that the high mobility group A1 (HMGA1) gene drives metastatic progression in triple negative breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231, Hs578T) by reprogramming cancer cells to a stem-like state. Silencing HMGA1 expression in invasive, aggressive breast cancer cells dramatically halts cell growth and results in striking morphologic changes from mesenchymal-like, spindle-shaped cells to cuboidal, epithelial-like cells. Mesenchymal genes (Vimentin, Snail) are repressed, while E-cadherin is induced in the knock-down cells. Silencing HMGA1 also blocks oncogenic properties, including proliferation, migration, invasion, and orthotopic tumorigenesis. Metastatic progression following mammary implantation is almost completely abrogated in the HMGA1 knock-down cells. Moreover, silencing HMGA1 inhibits the stem cell property of three-dimensional mammosphere formation, including primary, secondary, and tertiary spheres. In addition, knock-down of HMGA1 depletes cancer initiator/cancer stem cells and prevents tumorigenesis at limiting dilutions. We also discovered an HMGA1 signature in triple negative breast cancer cells that is highly enriched in embryonic stem cells. Together, these findings indicate that HMGA1 is a master regulator of tumor progression in breast cancer by reprogramming cancer cells through stem cell transcriptional networks. Future studies are needed to determine how to target HMGA1 in therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sandeep N Shah
- Hematology Division, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Roy S, Di Cello F, Kowalski J, Hristov AC, Tsai HL, Bhojwani D, Meyer JA, Carroll WL, Belton A, Resar LMS. HMGA1 overexpression correlates with relapse in childhood B-lineage acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Leuk Lymphoma 2013; 54:2565-7. [PMID: 23472968 DOI: 10.3109/10428194.2013.782610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sujayita Roy
- Hematology Division, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore, MD , USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Di Cello F, Dhara S, Hristov AC, Kowalski J, Elbahloul O, Hillion J, Roy S, Meijerink JPP, Winter SS, Larson RS, Huso DL, Resar L. Inactivation of the Cdkn2a locus cooperates with HMGA1 to drive T-cell leukemogenesis. Leuk Lymphoma 2013; 54:1762-8. [PMID: 23311322 DOI: 10.3109/10428194.2013.764422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is an aggressive leukemia with high relapse rates compared to B-lineage ALL. We previously showed that HMGA1a transgenic mice develop aggressive T-ALL, indicating that HMGA1 causes leukemic transformation in vivo. HMGA1 is also highly expressed in embryonic stem cells, hematopoietic stem cells and diverse, refractory human cancers. Disruption of the CDKN2A tumor suppressor locus occurs in most cases of T-ALL and is thought to contribute to leukemic transformation. To determine whether loss of function of CDKN2A cooperates with HMGA1 in T-ALL, we crossed HMGA1a transgenics onto a Cdkn2a null background. We discovered that T-ALL is markedly accelerated in HMGA1a transgenic Cdkn2a null mice. In addition, these mice recapitulate salient clinical and pathologic features of human T-ALL. HMGA1 is also highly overexpressed in human T-ALL. These findings suggest that HMGA1 plays a causative role in T-ALL and could represent a rational therapeutic target.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francescopaolo Di Cello
- Hematology Division, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Shah SN, Kerr C, Cope L, Zambidis E, Liu C, Hillion J, Belton A, Huso DL, Resar LMS. HMGA1 reprograms somatic cells into pluripotent stem cells by inducing stem cell transcriptional networks. PLoS One 2012; 7:e48533. [PMID: 23166588 PMCID: PMC3499526 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0048533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2012] [Accepted: 09/26/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although recent studies have identified genes expressed in human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) that induce pluripotency, the molecular underpinnings of normal stem cell function remain poorly understood. The high mobility group A1 (HMGA1) gene is highly expressed in hESCs and poorly differentiated, stem-like cancers; however, its role in these settings has been unclear. METHODS/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS We show that HMGA1 is highly expressed in fully reprogrammed iPSCs and hESCs, with intermediate levels in ECCs and low levels in fibroblasts. When hESCs are induced to differentiate, HMGA1 decreases and parallels that of other pluripotency factors. Conversely, forced expression of HMGA1 blocks differentiation of hESCs. We also discovered that HMGA1 enhances cellular reprogramming of somatic cells to iPSCs together with the Yamanaka factors (OCT4, SOX2, KLF4, cMYC - OSKM). HMGA1 increases the number and size of iPSC colonies compared to OSKM controls. Surprisingly, there was normal differentiation in vitro and benign teratoma formation in vivo of the HMGA1-derived iPSCs. During the reprogramming process, HMGA1 induces the expression of pluripotency genes, including SOX2, LIN28, and cMYC, while knockdown of HMGA1 in hESCs results in the repression of these genes. Chromatin immunoprecipitation shows that HMGA1 binds to the promoters of these pluripotency genes in vivo. In addition, interfering with HMGA1 function using a short hairpin RNA or a dominant-negative construct blocks cellular reprogramming to a pluripotent state. CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrate for the first time that HMGA1 enhances cellular reprogramming from a somatic cell to a fully pluripotent stem cell. These findings identify a novel role for HMGA1 as a key regulator of the stem cell state by inducing transcriptional networks that drive pluripotency. Although further studies are needed, these HMGA1 pathways could be exploited in regenerative medicine or as novel therapeutic targets for poorly differentiated, stem-like cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sandeep N. Shah
- Hematology Division, the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Candace Kerr
- Obstetrics & Gynecology, the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Leslie Cope
- Oncology, the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Biostatistics, the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Elias Zambidis
- Oncology, the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Comparative Molecular & Pathobiology, the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Cyndi Liu
- Obstetrics & Gynecology, the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Joelle Hillion
- Hematology Division, the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Amy Belton
- Hematology Division, the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - David L. Huso
- Oncology, the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Comparative Molecular & Pathobiology, the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Pathology, the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Linda M. S. Resar
- Hematology Division, the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Oncology, the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Pediatrics, the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Bible KC, Peethambaram PP, Oberg AL, Maples W, Groteluschen DL, Boente M, Burton JK, Gomez Dahl LC, Tibodeau JD, Isham CR, Maguire JL, Shridhar V, Kukla AK, Voll KJ, Mauer MJ, Colevas AD, Wright J, Doyle LA, Erlichman C. A phase 2 trial of flavopiridol (Alvocidib) and cisplatin in platin-resistant ovarian and primary peritoneal carcinoma: MC0261. Gynecol Oncol 2012; 127:55-62. [PMID: 22664059 PMCID: PMC4127485 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2012.05.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2012] [Revised: 05/17/2012] [Accepted: 05/25/2012] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Based upon promising preclinical and phase 1 trial results, combined flavopiridol and cisplatin therapy was evaluated in patients with ovarian and primary peritoneal cancers. METHODS A two cohort phase 2 trial of cisplatin (60 mg/m2 IV) immediately followed by flavopiridol (100 mg/m2 IV, 24 h infusion; 21 day cycles) was undertaken in patients with recurrent platin-sensitive or platin-resistant disease (progression>vs. ≤6 months following prior platin-based therapy). Measurable disease (RECIST)--or evaluable disease plus CA125>2X post-treatment nadir--and ECOG performance≤2 were required. RESULTS Forty-five patients were enrolled between December 23, 2004 and February 25, 2010: 40 platin-resistant (Group 1), and 5 platin-sensitive (Group 2). In Group 1, the median number of treatment cycles was 3 (range 2-12). Only 10% of patients incurred grade 4 toxicities, but grade 3 toxicities were common (65%): neutropenia (17.5%); nausea (12.5%); vomiting, fatigue, thrombosis, anemia (10% each). Seven patients (17.5%) achieved a confirmed response (1 CR, 6 PR; median duration 118 days); ten additional patients (25%) attained maintained stable disease. Median time to progression was 4.3 months; overall survival was 16.1 months. Pilot translational studies assessed ascites flavopiridol level; surrogate marker studies were uninformative. In Group 2, although 4 of 5 patients responded (2 confirmed PRs with median time to progression, 10.8 months and median overall survival 20.6 months) the cohort was closed due to poor accrual. CONCLUSIONS The assessed flavopiridol and cisplatin regimen displayed clinical activity in platin resistant and sensitive ovarian/primary peritoneal cancers, meriting further study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keith C Bible
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Health Science Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Hillion J, Smail SS, Di Cello F, Belton A, Shah S, Huso T, Schuldenfrei A, Nelson DM, Cope L, Campbell N, Karikari C, Aderinto A, Maitra A, Huso DL, Resar LMS. The HMGA1-COX-2 axis: a key molecular pathway and potential target in pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Pancreatology 2012; 12:372-9. [PMID: 22898640 PMCID: PMC3466102 DOI: 10.1016/j.pan.2012.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Although pancreatic cancer is a common, highly lethal malignancy, the molecular events that enable precursor lesions to become invasive carcinoma remain unclear. We previously reported that the high-mobility group A1 (HMGA1) protein is overexpressed in >90% of primary pancreatic cancers, with absent or low levels in early precursor lesions. METHODS Here, we investigate the role of HMGA1 in reprogramming pancreatic epithelium into invasive cancer cells. We assessed oncogenic properties induced by HMGA1 in non-transformed pancreatic epithelial cells expressing activated K-RAS. We also explored the HMGA1-cyclooxygenase (COX-2) pathway in human pancreatic cancer cells and the therapeutic effects of COX-2 inhibitors in xenograft tumorigenesis. RESULTS HMGA1 cooperates with activated K-RAS to induce migration, invasion, and anchorage-independent cell growth in a cell line derived from normal human pancreatic epithelium. Moreover, HMGA1 and COX-2 expression are positively correlated in pancreatic cancer cell lines (r(2) = 0.93; p < 0.001). HMGA1 binds directly to the COX-2 promoter at an AT-rich region in vivo in three pancreatic cancer cell lines. In addition, HMGA1 induces COX-2 expression in pancreatic epithelial cells, while knock-down of HMGA1 results in repression of COX-2 in pancreatic cancer cells. Strikingly, we also discovered that Sulindac (a COX-1/COX-2 inhibitor) or Celecoxib (a more specific COX-2 inhibitor) block xenograft tumorigenesis from pancreatic cancer cells expressing high levels of HMGA1. CONCLUSIONS Our studies identify for the first time an important role for the HMGA1-COX-2 pathway in pancreatic cancer and suggest that targeting this pathway could be effective to treat, or even prevent, pancreatic cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joelle Hillion
- Hematology Division, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
- Department of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
| | - Shamayra S. Smail
- Hematology Division, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
- Department of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
- Pathobiology Graduate Program, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
| | - Francescopaolo Di Cello
- Hematology Division, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
- Department of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
| | - Amy Belton
- Hematology Division, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
- Department of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
| | - Sandeep Shah
- Hematology Division, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
- Department of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
| | - Tait Huso
- Hematology Division, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
- Department of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
| | - Andrew Schuldenfrei
- Hematology Division, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
- Department of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
| | - Dwella Moton Nelson
- Hematology Division, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
- Department of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
| | - Leslie Cope
- Oncology Center-Biostatistics/Bioinformatics, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
- Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
| | - Nathaniel Campbell
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
- The Sol Goldman Pancreatic Cancer Research Center, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
| | - Collins Karikari
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
- The Sol Goldman Pancreatic Cancer Research Center, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
| | - Abimbola Aderinto
- Hematology Division, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
- Department of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
| | - Anirban Maitra
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
- The Sol Goldman Pancreatic Cancer Research Center, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
- Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
| | - David L. Huso
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
- Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
- Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
| | - Linda M. S. Resar
- Hematology Division, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
- Department of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
- Pathobiology Graduate Program, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
- Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
- Pediatrics, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Filippakopoulos P, Picaud S, Fedorov O, Keller M, Wrobel M, Morgenstern O, Bracher F, Knapp S. Benzodiazepines and benzotriazepines as protein interaction inhibitors targeting bromodomains of the BET family. Bioorg Med Chem 2012; 20:1878-86. [PMID: 22137933 PMCID: PMC4748212 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2011.10.080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2011] [Revised: 10/11/2011] [Accepted: 10/30/2011] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Benzodiazepines are psychoactive drugs with anxiolytic, sedative, skeletal muscle relaxant and amnestic properties. Recently triazolo-benzodiazepines have been also described as potent and highly selective protein interaction inhibitors of bromodomain and extra-terminal (BET) proteins, a family of transcriptional co-regulators that play a key role in cancer cell survival and proliferation, but the requirements for high affinity interaction of this compound class with bromodomains has not been described. Here we provide insight into the structure-activity relationship (SAR) and selectivity of this versatile scaffold. In addition, using high resolution crystal structures we compared the binding mode of a series of benzodiazepine (BzD) and related triazolo-benzotriazepines (BzT) derivatives including clinically approved drugs such as alprazolam and midazolam. Our analysis revealed the importance of the 1-methyl triazolo ring system for BET binding and suggests modifications for the development of further high affinity bromodomain inhibitors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Panagis Filippakopoulos
- University of Oxford, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, Structural Genomics Consortium, Old Road Campus Research Building, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford OX3 7LD, UK
| | - Sarah Picaud
- University of Oxford, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, Structural Genomics Consortium, Old Road Campus Research Building, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford OX3 7LD, UK
| | - Oleg Fedorov
- University of Oxford, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, Structural Genomics Consortium, Old Road Campus Research Building, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford OX3 7LD, UK
| | - Marco Keller
- Ludwig-Maximilians University, Department of Pharmacy, Center for Drug Research, Butenandtstr. 5-13, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Matthias Wrobel
- Ludwig-Maximilians University, Department of Pharmacy, Center for Drug Research, Butenandtstr. 5-13, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Olaf Morgenstern
- Ernst-Moritz-Arndt University, Institute of Pharmacy, Friedrich-Ludwig-Jahn-Str. 17, 17489 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Franz Bracher
- Ludwig-Maximilians University, Department of Pharmacy, Center for Drug Research, Butenandtstr. 5-13, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Stefan Knapp
- University of Oxford, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, Structural Genomics Consortium, Old Road Campus Research Building, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford OX3 7LD, UK
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Dietary compounds as potent inhibitors of the signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT) 3 regulatory network. GENES AND NUTRITION 2012; 7:111-25. [PMID: 22274779 DOI: 10.1007/s12263-012-0281-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2011] [Accepted: 01/10/2012] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT) proteins were described as a family of latent cytosolic transcription factors whose activation is dependent on phosphorylation via growth factor- and cytokine-membrane receptors including interferon and interleukin, or by non-receptor intracellular tyrosine kinases, including Src. A vast majority of natural substances are capable of modulating mitogenic signals, cell survival, apoptosis, cell cycle regulation, angiogenesis as well as processes involved in metastasis development. The inhibition of STAT3 phosphorylation by natural and dietary compounds leads to decreased protein expression of STAT3 targets essentially involved in regulation of the cell cycle and apoptotic cell death. This review details the cell signaling pathways involving STAT transcription factors as well as the corresponding compounds from nature able to interfere with this regulatory system in human cancer.
Collapse
|
41
|
Belton A, Gabrovsky A, Bae YK, Reeves R, Iacobuzio-Donahue C, Huso DL, Resar LMS. HMGA1 induces intestinal polyposis in transgenic mice and drives tumor progression and stem cell properties in colon cancer cells. PLoS One 2012; 7:e30034. [PMID: 22276142 PMCID: PMC3262796 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0030034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2011] [Accepted: 12/12/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although metastatic colon cancer is a leading cause of cancer death worldwide, the molecular mechanisms that enable colon cancer cells to metastasize remain unclear. Emerging evidence suggests that metastatic cells develop by usurping transcriptional networks from embryonic stem (ES) cells to facilitate an epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), invasion, and metastatic progression. Previous studies identified HMGA1 as a key transcription factor enriched in ES cells, colon cancer, and other aggressive tumors, although its role in these settings is poorly understood. METHODS/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS To determine how HMGA1 functions in metastatic colon cancer, we manipulated HMGA1 expression in transgenic mice and colon cancer cells. We discovered that HMGA1 drives proliferative changes, aberrant crypt formation, and intestinal polyposis in transgenic mice. In colon cancer cell lines from poorly differentiated, metastatic tumors, knock-down of HMGA1 blocks anchorage-independent cell growth, migration, invasion, xenograft tumorigenesis and three-dimensional colonosphere formation. Inhibiting HMGA1 expression blocks tumorigenesis at limiting dilutions, consistent with depletion of tumor-initiator cells in the knock-down cells. Knock-down of HMGA1 also inhibits metastatic progression to the liver in vivo. In metastatic colon cancer cells, HMGA1 induces expression of Twist1, a gene involved in embryogenesis, EMT, and tumor progression, while HMGA1 represses E-cadherin, a gene that is down-regulated during EMT and metastatic progression. In addition, HMGA1 is among the most enriched genes in colon cancer compared to normal mucosa. CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrate for the first time that HMGA1 drives proliferative changes and polyp formation in the intestines of transgenic mice and induces metastatic progression and stem-like properties in colon cancer cells. These findings indicate that HMGA1 is a key regulator, both in metastatic progression and in the maintenance of a stem-like state. Our results also suggest that HMGA1 or downstream pathways could be rational therapeutic targets in metastatic, poorly differentiated colon cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amy Belton
- Hematology Division, Department of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Alexander Gabrovsky
- Hematology Division, Department of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Young Kyung Bae
- Department of Pathology, Yeungnam University College of Medicine, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Ray Reeves
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, United States of America
| | - Christine Iacobuzio-Donahue
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - David L. Huso
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Linda M. S. Resar
- Hematology Division, Department of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Schuldenfrei A, Belton A, Kowalski J, Talbot CC, Di Cello F, Poh W, Tsai HL, Shah SN, Huso TH, Huso DL, Resar LMS. HMGA1 drives stem cell, inflammatory pathway, and cell cycle progression genes during lymphoid tumorigenesis. BMC Genomics 2011; 12:549. [PMID: 22053823 PMCID: PMC3245506 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2164-12-549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2011] [Accepted: 11/04/2011] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although the high mobility group A1 (HMGA1) gene is widely overexpressed in diverse cancers and portends a poor prognosis in some tumors, the molecular mechanisms that mediate its role in transformation have remained elusive. HMGA1 functions as a potent oncogene in cultured cells and induces aggressive lymphoid tumors in transgenic mice. Because HMGA1 chromatin remodeling proteins regulate transcription, HMGA1 is thought to drive malignant transformation by modulating expression of specific genes. Genome-wide studies to define HMGA1 transcriptional networks during tumorigenesis, however, are lacking. To define the HMGA1 transcriptome, we analyzed gene expression profiles in lymphoid cells from HMGA1a transgenic mice at different stages in tumorigenesis. RESULTS RNA from lymphoid samples at 2 months (before tumors develop) and 12 months (after tumors are well-established) was screened for differential expression of > 20,000 unique genes by microarray analysis (Affymetrix) using a parametric and nonparametric approach. Differential expression was confirmed by quantitative RT-PCR in a subset of genes. Differentially expressed genes were analyzed for cellular pathways and functions using Ingenuity Pathway Analysis. Early in tumorigenesis, HMGA1 induced inflammatory pathways with NFkappaB identified as a major node. In established tumors, HMGA1 induced pathways involved in cell cycle progression, cell-mediated immune response, and cancer. At both stages in tumorigenesis, HMGA1 induced pathways involved in cellular development, hematopoiesis, and hematologic development. Gene set enrichment analysis showed that stem cell and immature T cell genes are enriched in the established tumors. To determine if these results are relevant to human tumors, we knocked-down HMGA1 in human T-cell leukemia cells and identified a subset of genes dysregulated in both the transgenic and human lymphoid tumors. CONCLUSIONS We found that HMGA1 induces inflammatory pathways early in lymphoid tumorigenesis and pathways involved in stem cells, cell cycle progression, and cancer in established tumors. HMGA1 also dyregulates genes and pathways involved in stem cells, cellular development and hematopoiesis at both early and late stages of tumorigenesis. These results provide insight into HMGA1 function during tumor development and point to cellular pathways that could serve as therapeutic targets in lymphoid and other human cancers with aberrant HMGA1 expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Schuldenfrei
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 720 Rutland Avenue, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Amy Belton
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 720 Rutland Avenue, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Jeanne Kowalski
- Department of Oncology, Division of Oncology Biostatistics, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins, 550 North Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - C Conover Talbot
- Institute for Basic Biomedical Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 733 North Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Francescopaolo Di Cello
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 720 Rutland Avenue, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Weijie Poh
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 720 Rutland Avenue, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
- Pathobiology Graduate Program, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 720 Rutland Avenue, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Hua-Ling Tsai
- Department of Oncology, Division of Oncology Biostatistics, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins, 550 North Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Sandeep N Shah
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 720 Rutland Avenue, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Tait H Huso
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 720 Rutland Avenue, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - David L Huso
- Department of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 733 North Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 720 Rutland Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Linda MS Resar
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 720 Rutland Avenue, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 720 Rutland Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 720 Rutland Avenue, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
| |
Collapse
|