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Zhang C, Xu M, Yang M, Liao A, Lv P, Liu X, Chen Y, Liu H, He Z. Efficient generation of cloned cats with altered coat colour by editing of the KIT gene. Theriogenology 2024; 222:54-65. [PMID: 38621344 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Coat colour largely determines the market demand for several cat breeds. The KIT proto-oncogene (KIT) gene is a key gene controlling melanoblast differentiation and melanogenesis. KIT mutations usually cause varied changes in coat colour in mammalian species. In this study, we used a pair of single-guide RNAs (sgRNAs) to delete exon 17 of KIT in somatic cells isolated from two different Chinese Li Hua feline foetuses. Edited cells were used as donor nuclei for somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) to generate cloned embryos presenting an average cleavage rate exceeding 85%, and an average blastocyst formation rate exceeding 9.5%. 131 cloned embryos were transplanted into four surrogates, and all surrogates carried their pregnancies to term, and delivered 4.58% (6/131) alive cloned kittens, with 1.53% (2/131) being KIT-edited heterozygotes (KITD17/+). The KITD17/+ cats presented an obvious darkness reduction in the mackerel tabby coat. Immunohistochemical analysis (IHC) of skin tissues indicated impaired proliferation and differentiation of melanoblasts caused by the lack of exon17 in feline KIT. To our knowledge, this is the first report on coat colour modification of cats through gene editing. The findings could facilitate further understanding of the regulatory role of KIT on feline coat colour and provide a basis for the breeding of cats with commercially desired coat colour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Meina Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Min Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Alian Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Peiru Lv
- Henan Liosio Biotechnology Co., Ltd, PR China
| | - Xiaohong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Yaosheng Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Hongbo Liu
- Henan Liosio Biotechnology Co., Ltd, PR China.
| | - Zuyong He
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China.
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Shalata W, Attal ZG, Solomon A, Shalata S, Abu Saleh O, Tourkey L, Abu Salamah F, Alatawneh I, Yakobson A. Melanoma Management: Exploring Staging, Prognosis, and Treatment Innovations. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5794. [PMID: 38891988 PMCID: PMC11171767 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25115794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2024] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Melanoma, a malignant neoplasm originating from melanocytes, stands as one of the most prevalent cancers globally, ranking fifth in terms of estimated new cases in recent years. Its aggressive nature and propensity for metastasis pose significant challenges in oncology. Recent advancements have led to a notable shift towards targeted therapies, driven by a deeper understanding of cutaneous tumor pathogenesis. Immunotherapy and tyrosine kinase inhibitors have emerged as promising strategies, demonstrating the potential to improve clinical outcomes across all disease stages, including neoadjuvant, adjuvant, and metastatic settings. Notably, there has been a groundbreaking development in the treatment of brain metastasis, historically associated with poor prognosis in oncology but showcasing impressive results in melanoma patients. This review article provides a comprehensive synthesis of the most recent knowledge on staging and prognostic factors while highlighting emerging therapeutic modalities, with a particular focus on neoadjuvant and adjuvant strategies, notably immunotherapy and targeted therapies, including the ongoing trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walid Shalata
- The Legacy Heritage Cancer Center and Larry Norton Institute, Soroka Medical Center, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Zoe Gabrielle Attal
- Medical School for International Health, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Adam Solomon
- Medical School for International Health, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Sondos Shalata
- Nutrition Unit, Galilee Medical Center, Nahariya 22000, Israel
| | - Omar Abu Saleh
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, The Emek Medical Centre, Afula 18341, Israel
| | - Lena Tourkey
- The Legacy Heritage Cancer Center and Larry Norton Institute, Soroka Medical Center, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Fahed Abu Salamah
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel
- Department of Dermatology, Soroka Medical Center, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Ibrahim Alatawneh
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel
- Department of Dermatology, Soroka Medical Center, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Alexander Yakobson
- The Legacy Heritage Cancer Center and Larry Norton Institute, Soroka Medical Center, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel
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3
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Cazzato G, Ingravallo G, Ribatti D. Angiogenesis Still Plays a Crucial Role in Human Melanoma Progression. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1794. [PMID: 38791873 PMCID: PMC11120419 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16101794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis plays a pivotal role in tumor progression, particularly in melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the intricate interplay between angiogenesis and tumor microenvironment (TME) in melanoma progression. Pro-angiogenic factors, including VEGF, PlGF, FGF-2, IL-8, Ang, TGF-β, PDGF, integrins, MMPs, and PAF, modulate angiogenesis and contribute to melanoma metastasis. Additionally, cells within the TME, such as cancer-associated fibroblasts, mast cells, and melanoma-associated macrophages, influence tumor angiogenesis and progression. Anti-angiogenic therapies, while showing promise, face challenges such as drug resistance and tumor-induced activation of alternative angiogenic pathways. Rational combinations of anti-angiogenic agents and immunotherapies are being explored to overcome resistance. Biomarker identification for treatment response remains crucial for personalized therapies. This review highlights the complexity of angiogenesis in melanoma and underscores the need for innovative therapeutic approaches tailored to the dynamic TME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerardo Cazzato
- Section of Molecular Pathology, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy;
| | - Giuseppe Ingravallo
- Section of Molecular Pathology, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy;
| | - Domenico Ribatti
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience, University of Bari Medical School, 70124 Bari, Italy;
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Sevilla A, Grichnik J. Therapeutic modulation of KIT ligand in melanocytic disorders with implications for mast cell diseases. Exp Dermatol 2024; 33:e15091. [PMID: 38711220 DOI: 10.1111/exd.15091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
KIT ligand and its associated receptor KIT serve as a master regulatory system for both melanocytes and mast cells controlling survival, migration, proliferation and activation. Blockade of this pathway results in cell depletion, while overactivation leads to mastocytosis or melanoma. Expression defects are associated with pigmentary and mast cell disorders. KIT ligand regulation is complex but efficient targeting of this system would be of significant benefit to those suffering from melanocytic or mast cell disorders. Herein, we review the known associations of this pathway with cutaneous diseases and the regulators of this system both in skin and in the more well-studied germ cell system. Exogenous agents modulating this pathway will also be presented. Ultimately, we will review potential therapeutic opportunities to help our patients with melanocytic and mast cell disease processes potentially including vitiligo, hair greying, melasma, urticaria, mastocytosis and melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alec Sevilla
- Department of Dermatology, New York Medical College, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Lakeland Regional Health, Lakeland, Florida, USA
| | - James Grichnik
- Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
- Department of Cutaneous Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida, USA
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5
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Everdell E, Ji Z, Njauw CN, Tsao H. Molecular Analysis of Murine Kit K641E Melanoma Progression. JID INNOVATIONS 2024; 4:100266. [PMID: 38585193 PMCID: PMC10995915 DOI: 10.1016/j.xjidi.2024.100266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Acral and mucosal melanomas are often driven by sequence variants in the KIT receptor tyrosine kinase, with nearly 40% harboring alterations in the KIT locus. Despite advances in the knowledge of KIT-mutated melanomas, little is known about the molecular reprogramming that occurs during KIT-mediated melanoma progression owing to the rarity of acral and mucosal melanomas and the lack of comprehensive biological tools and models. To this end, we used a murine model that allows us to ascertain the molecular underpinnings of the stages of cancer progression-transformation, tumorigenesis, immune engagement, and tumor escalation. We found dramatic increases in biosynthetic demands associated with the transformation stage, including DNA and RNA metabolism, leading to replication stress. Tumorigenesis was closely linked to neuronal and axonal development, likely necessary for invasion into the host. Immune engagement highlighted early immune excitation and rejection pathways, possibly triggered by abrupt neoantigen exposure. Finally, tumor escalation pathways proved consistent with immune evasion, with immune-related pathways becoming significantly downregulated. To our knowledge, it is previously unreported that these critical milestones needed for KIT-driven melanoma tumor formation have been studied at the molecular level using isogenically matched and phenotypically defined cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Everdell
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Zhenyu Ji
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ching-Ni Njauw
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Hensin Tsao
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Haugh A, Daud AI. Therapeutic Strategies in BRAF V600 Wild-Type Cutaneous Melanoma. Am J Clin Dermatol 2024; 25:407-419. [PMID: 38329690 DOI: 10.1007/s40257-023-00841-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
There have been many recent advances in melanoma therapy. While 50% of melanomas have a BRAF mutation and are a target for BRAF inhibitors, the remaining 50% are BRAF wild-type. Immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting PD-1, cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA4) and lymphocyte activated gene-3 (Lag-3) are all approved for the treatment of patients with advanced BRAF wild-type melanoma; however, treatment of this patient population following initial immune checkpoint blockade is a current therapeutic challenge given the lack of other efficacious options. Here, we briefly review available US FDA-approved therapies for BRAF wild-type melanoma and focus on developing treatment avenues for this heterogeneous group of patients. We review the basics of genomic features of both BRAF mutant and BRAF wild-type melanoma as well as efforts underway to develop new targeted therapies involving the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway for patients with BRAF wild-type tumors. We then focus on novel immunotherapies, including developing checkpoint inhibitors and agonists, cytokine therapies, oncolytic viruses and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, all of which represent potential therapeutic avenues for patients with BRAF wild-type melanoma who progress on currently approved immune checkpoint inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Haugh
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, 550 16th Street, 6809, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Adil I Daud
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, 550 16th Street, 6809, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA.
- Department of Dermatology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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Tang A, Taori S, Dang S, Gardner PA, Zenonos GA, Davar D, Kuan EC, Snyderman CH, Wang EW, Choby G. Immunotherapy in the Management of Sinonasal Mucosal Melanoma: A Systematic Review. Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2024. [PMID: 38686598 DOI: 10.1002/ohn.790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this work is to comprehensively review and synthesize the literature related to sinonasal mucosal melanoma (SNMM) treatment with immunotherapy, including potentially targetable genetic mutations, survival outcomes, and adverse events. DATA SOURCES Embase, Cochrane, Scopus, and Web of Science. REVIEW METHODS The study protocol was designed according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis statement. Databases were searched from inception through May 23, 2023. RESULTS A total of 42 studies met inclusion criteria. Twenty-four of the included studies reported genetic mutations for a combined 787 patients with SNMM. 8.1% (95% confidence interval, CI: 7.6-8.6), 18.9% (95% CI: 18.1-19.8), and 8.5% (95% CI: 8.1-9.0) of reported patients were positive for BRAF, NRAS, and KIT mutations, respectively. The presence of brisk tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes was associated with improved recurrence-free survival and overall survival (OS). Six studies reported a combined 5-year OS after adjuvant immunotherapy treatment of 42.6% (95% CI: 39.4-45.8). Thirteen studies encompassing 117 patients reported adjuvant or salvage immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) immunotherapy response rates: 40.2% (95% CI: 36.8-43.6) had a positive response (tumor volume reduction or resolution). Eleven studies reported direct comparisons between SNMM patients treated with or without immunotherapy; the majority (7/11) reported survival benefit for their entire cohort or select subgroups of SNMM patients. With the transition to modern ICIs, there is a stronger trend toward survival improvement with adjuvant ICI. Tumors with Ki67 <40% may respond better to ICI's. CONCLUSION ICI therapy can be an effective in select SNMM patients, especially those with advanced/metastatic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Tang
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Suchet Taori
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Sophia Dang
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Paul A Gardner
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Georgios A Zenonos
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Diwakar Davar
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Edward C Kuan
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery and Neurological Surgery, University of California Irvine, Orange, California, USA
| | - Carl H Snyderman
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Eric W Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Garret Choby
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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8
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Dedeilia A, Lwin T, Li S, Tarantino G, Tunsiricharoengul S, Lawless A, Sharova T, Liu D, Boland GM, Cohen S. Factors Affecting Recurrence and Survival for Patients with High-Risk Stage II Melanoma. Ann Surg Oncol 2024; 31:2713-2726. [PMID: 38158497 PMCID: PMC10908640 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-023-14724-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the current era of effective adjuvant therapies and de-escalation of surgery, distinguishing which patients with high-risk stage II melanoma are at increased risk of recurrence after excision of the primary lesion is essential to determining appropriate treatment and surveillance plans. METHODS A single-center retrospective study analyzed patients with stage IIB or IIC melanoma. Demographic and tumor data were collected, and genomic analysis of formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue samples was performed via an internal next-generation sequencing (NGS) platform (SNaPshot). The end points examined were relapse-free survival (RFS), distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS), overall survival (OS), and melanoma-specific survival (MSS). Uni- and multivariable Cox regressions were performed to calculate the hazard ratios. RESULTS The study included 92 patients with a median age of 69 years and a male/female ratio of 2:1. A Breslow depth greater than 4 mm, a higher mitotic rate, an advanced T stage, and a KIT mutation had a negative impact on RFS. A primary lesion in the head and neck, a mitotic rate exceeding 10 mitoses per mm2, a CDH1 mutation, or a KIT mutation was significantly associated with a shorter DMFS. Overall survival was significantly lower with older age at diagnosis and a higher mitotic rate. An older age at diagnosis also had a negative impact on MSS. CONCLUSION Traditional histopathologic factors and specific tumor mutations displayed a significant correlation with disease recurrence and survival for patients with high-risk stage II melanoma. This study supported the use of genomic testing of high-risk stage II melanomas for prognostic prediction and risk stratification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aikaterini Dedeilia
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Oncologic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Thinzar Lwin
- Division of Surgical Oncology, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Siming Li
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Oncologic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Giuseppe Tarantino
- Broad Institute of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Medical Oncology, Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Aleigha Lawless
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Tatyana Sharova
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Oncologic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - David Liu
- Broad Institute of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Medical Oncology, Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Genevieve M Boland
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Oncologic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Sonia Cohen
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Oncologic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- Broad Institute of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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Budair FM. KIT Mutation Associated with Depigmented Patches Regression and Multiple Café-au-lait Macules Development in a Patient with Piebaldism: A Case Report. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol 2024; 17:713-716. [PMID: 38524391 PMCID: PMC10961011 DOI: 10.2147/ccid.s449691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
Piebaldism is a rare genetic disorder caused by KIT mutations and clinically characterized by fixed depigmented patches throughout the body. Herein, a case of piebaldism in which the depigmented patches regressed as the patient grew older, along with the development of multiple café-au-lait macules, is described. The likely pathogenic, heterozygous KIT c.1991-2A>G variant was detected as the potential cause of this unusual piebaldism phenotype. This case provides new knowledge on genotype-phenotype correlation of KIT mutations for piebaldism etiology and presentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatimah Mohammad Budair
- Department of Dermatology, King Fahd University Hospital, Al Khobar, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
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Larkin J, Marais R, Porta N, Gonzalez de Castro D, Parsons L, Messiou C, Stamp G, Thompson L, Edmonds K, Sarker S, Banerji J, Lorigan P, Evans TRJ, Corrie P, Marshall E, Middleton MR, Nathan P, Nicholson S, Ottensmeier C, Plummer R, Bliss J, Valpione S, Turajlic S. Nilotinib in KIT-driven advanced melanoma: Results from the phase II single-arm NICAM trial. Cell Rep Med 2024; 5:101435. [PMID: 38417447 PMCID: PMC10982988 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2024.101435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024]
Abstract
Mucosal (MM) and acral melanomas (AM) are rare melanoma subtypes of unmet clinical need; 15%-20% harbor KIT mutations potentially targeted by small-molecule inhibitors, but none yet approved in melanoma. This multicenter, single-arm Phase II trial (NICAM) investigates nilotinib safety and activity in KIT mutated metastatic MM and AM. KIT mutations are identified in 39/219 screened patients (18%); of 29/39 treated, 26 are evaluable for primary analysis. Six patients were alive and progression free at 6 months (local radiology review, 25%); 5/26 (19%) had objective response at 12 weeks; median OS was 7.7 months; ddPCR assay correctly identifies KIT alterations in circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) in 16/17 patients. Nilotinib is active in KIT-mutant AM and MM, comparable to other KIT inhibitors, with demonstrable activity in nonhotspot KIT mutations, supporting broadening of KIT evaluation in AM and MM. Our results endorse further investigations of nilotinib for the treatment of KIT-mutated melanoma. This clinical trial was registered with ISRCTN (ISRCTN39058880) and EudraCT (2009-012945-49).
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Affiliation(s)
- James Larkin
- Skin and Renal Units, The Royal Marsden Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK; Melanoma and Kidney Cancer Team, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Richard Marais
- Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Nuria Porta
- Clinical Trials and Statistics Unit, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - David Gonzalez de Castro
- Molecular Diagnostics, The Institute of Cancer Research and Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Lisa Parsons
- University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK; PDD - Thermo Fisher Scientific, Bend, Oregon, USA
| | - Christina Messiou
- Department of Radiology, The Royal Marsden Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Gordon Stamp
- Department of Histopathology, The Royal Marsden Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Lisa Thompson
- Centre for Molecular Pathology, The Royal Marsden Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Kim Edmonds
- Skin and Renal Units, The Royal Marsden Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Sarah Sarker
- Skin and Renal Units, The Royal Marsden Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Jane Banerji
- Clinical Trials and Statistics Unit, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Paul Lorigan
- Division of Cancer Sciences, Unviersity of Manchester, Manchester, UK; The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Pippa Corrie
- Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Ernest Marshall
- The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Paul Nathan
- Mount Vernon Cancer Centre, East & North Herts NHS Trust, Northwood, UK
| | - Steve Nicholson
- University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Foundation Trust, Leicester, UK
| | | | - Ruth Plummer
- Newcastle University and Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle, UK
| | - Judith Bliss
- Clinical Trials and Statistics Unit, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Sara Valpione
- Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK.
| | - Samra Turajlic
- Skin and Renal Units, The Royal Marsden Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK; Melanoma and Kidney Cancer Team, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK; Cancer Dynamics Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK.
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11
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Dnyanmote AS, Jadhav S, Vasava K, Immadi S. Anorectal Melanoma: A Rare Cause of Large Bowel Obstruction. Cureus 2024; 16:e56128. [PMID: 38618462 PMCID: PMC11015112 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.56128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Anorectal melanoma is a rare and aggressive malignancy with a challenging diagnosis and management. We present the case of a 69-year-old male with a history of chronic constipation and recent weight loss, who presented with symptoms suggestive of anorectal pathology. Despite initial diagnostic challenges, including an unsuccessful colonoscopy due to inadequate bowel preparation, the subsequent radiographic evaluation revealed a large bowel obstruction secondary to a protruding anorectal mass. Abdominal X-ray demonstrated significant colonic dilation while contrast-enhanced CT scan revealed a large hypodense mass protruding from the anal canal. Surgical intervention led to the excision of the mass, and histopathological examination confirmed malignant melanoma. Immunohistochemistry markers, including HMB 45, Melan A, and S100, supported the diagnosis. This case underscores the importance of considering anorectal melanoma in patients presenting with atypical anorectal symptoms, despite its rarity. Early recognition and intervention, supported by appropriate imaging modalities, are critical for optimizing patient outcomes in such cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anuradha S Dnyanmote
- Surgery, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pune, IND
| | - Suhasini Jadhav
- General Surgery, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pune, IND
| | - Kinjal Vasava
- General Surgery, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pune, IND
| | - Saikumar Immadi
- General Surgery, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pune, IND
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Caraban BM, Aschie M, Deacu M, Cozaru GC, Pundiche MB, Orasanu CI, Voda RI. A Narrative Review of Current Knowledge on Cutaneous Melanoma. Clin Pract 2024; 14:214-241. [PMID: 38391404 PMCID: PMC10888040 DOI: 10.3390/clinpract14010018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous melanoma is a public health problem. Efforts to reduce its incidence have failed, as it continues to increase. In recent years, many risk factors have been identified. Numerous diagnostic systems exist that greatly assist in early clinical diagnosis. The histopathological aspect illustrates the grim nature of these cancers. Currently, pathogenic pathways and the tumor microclimate are key to the development of therapeutic methods. Revolutionary therapies like targeted therapy and immune checkpoint inhibitors are starting to replace traditional therapeutic methods. Targeted therapy aims at a specific molecule in the pathogenic chain to block it, stopping cell growth and dissemination. The main function of immune checkpoint inhibitors is to boost cellular immunity in order to combat cancer cells. Unfortunately, these therapies have different rates of effectiveness and side effects, and cannot be applied to all patients. These shortcomings are the basis of increased incidence and mortality rates. This study covers all stages of the evolutionary sequence of melanoma. With all these data in front of us, we see the need for new research efforts directed at therapies that will bring greater benefits in terms of patient survival and prognosis, with fewer adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bogdan Marian Caraban
- Clinical Department of Plastic Surgery, Microsurgery-Reconstructive, "Sf. Apostol Andrei" Emergency County Hospital, 900591 Constanta, Romania
- Faculty of Medicine, "Ovidius" University of Constanta, 900470 Constanta, Romania
| | - Mariana Aschie
- Faculty of Medicine, "Ovidius" University of Constanta, 900470 Constanta, Romania
- Clinical Service of Pathology, Departments of Pathology, "Sf. Apostol Andrei" Emergency County Hospital, 900591 Constanta, Romania
- Academy of Medical Sciences of Romania, 030171 Bucharest, Romania
- The Romanian Academy of Scientists, 030167 Bucharest, Romania
- Center for Research and Development of the Morphological and Genetic Studies of Malignant Pathology (CEDMOG), "Ovidius" University of Constanta, 900591 Constanta, Romania
| | - Mariana Deacu
- Faculty of Medicine, "Ovidius" University of Constanta, 900470 Constanta, Romania
- Clinical Service of Pathology, Departments of Pathology, "Sf. Apostol Andrei" Emergency County Hospital, 900591 Constanta, Romania
| | - Georgeta Camelia Cozaru
- Center for Research and Development of the Morphological and Genetic Studies of Malignant Pathology (CEDMOG), "Ovidius" University of Constanta, 900591 Constanta, Romania
- Clinical Service of Pathology, Departments of Genetics, "Sf. Apostol Andrei" Emergency County Hospital, 900591 Constanta, Romania
| | - Mihaela Butcaru Pundiche
- Faculty of Medicine, "Ovidius" University of Constanta, 900470 Constanta, Romania
- Clinical Department of General Surgery, "Sf. Apostol Andrei" Emergency County Hospital, 900591 Constanta, Romania
| | - Cristian Ionut Orasanu
- Faculty of Medicine, "Ovidius" University of Constanta, 900470 Constanta, Romania
- Clinical Service of Pathology, Departments of Pathology, "Sf. Apostol Andrei" Emergency County Hospital, 900591 Constanta, Romania
- Center for Research and Development of the Morphological and Genetic Studies of Malignant Pathology (CEDMOG), "Ovidius" University of Constanta, 900591 Constanta, Romania
| | - Raluca Ioana Voda
- Faculty of Medicine, "Ovidius" University of Constanta, 900470 Constanta, Romania
- Clinical Service of Pathology, Departments of Pathology, "Sf. Apostol Andrei" Emergency County Hospital, 900591 Constanta, Romania
- Center for Research and Development of the Morphological and Genetic Studies of Malignant Pathology (CEDMOG), "Ovidius" University of Constanta, 900591 Constanta, Romania
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Huang C, Lau TWS, Smoller BR. Diagnosing Cutaneous Melanocytic Tumors in the Molecular Era: Updates and Review of Literature. Dermatopathology (Basel) 2024; 11:26-51. [PMID: 38247727 PMCID: PMC10801542 DOI: 10.3390/dermatopathology11010005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Over the past decade, molecular and genomic discoveries have experienced unprecedented growth, fundamentally reshaping our comprehension of melanocytic tumors. This review comprises three main sections. The first part gives an overview of the current genomic landscape of cutaneous melanocytic tumors. The second part provides an update on the associated molecular tests and immunohistochemical stains that are helpful for diagnostic purposes. The third section briefly outlines the diverse molecular pathways now utilized for the classification of cutaneous melanomas. The primary goal of this review is to provide a succinct overview of the molecular pathways involved in melanocytic tumors and demonstrate their practical integration into the realm of diagnostic aids. As the molecular and genomic knowledge base continues to expand, this review hopes to serve as a valuable resource for healthcare professionals, offering insight into the evolving molecular landscape of cutaneous melanocytic tumors and its implications for patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chelsea Huang
- Department of Pathology, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Loma Linda, CA 92354, USA
| | | | - Bruce R. Smoller
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA;
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14
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Peisen F, Gerken A, Dahm I, Nikolaou K, Eigentler T, Amaral T, Moltz JH, Othman AE, Gatidis S. Pre-treatment 18F-FDG-PET/CT parameters as biomarkers for progression free survival, best overall response and overall survival in metastatic melanoma patients undergoing first-line immunotherapy. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0296253. [PMID: 38180971 PMCID: PMC10769042 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0296253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Checkpoint inhibitors have drastically improved the therapy of patients with advanced melanoma. 18F-FDG-PET/CT parameters might act as biomarkers for response and survival and thus can identify patients that do not benefit from immunotherapy. However, little literature exists on the association of baseline 18F-FDG-PET/CT parameters with progression free survival (PFS), best overall response (BOR), and overall survival (OS). MATERIALS AND METHODS Using a whole tumor volume segmentation approach, we investigated in a retrospective registry study (n = 50) whether pre-treatment 18F-FDG-PET/CT parameters of three subgroups (tumor burden, tumor glucose uptake and non-tumoral hematopoietic tissue metabolism), can act as biomarkers for the primary endpoints PFS and BOR as well as for the secondary endpoint OS. RESULTS Compared to the sole use of clinical parameters, baseline 18F-FDG-PET/CT parameters did not significantly improve a Cox proportional-hazard model for PFS (C-index/AIC: 0.70/225.17 and 0.68/223.54, respectively; p = 0.14). A binomial logistic regression analysis for BOR was not statistically significant (χ2(15) = 16.44, p = 0.35), with a low amount of explained variance (Nagelkerke's R2 = 0.38). Mean FDG uptake of the spleen contributed significantly to a Cox proportional-hazard model for OS (HR 3.55, p = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS The present study could not confirm the capability of the pre-treatment 18F-FDG-PET/CT parameters tumor burden, tumor glucose uptake and non-tumoral hematopoietic tissue metabolism to act as biomarkers for PFS and BOR in metastatic melanoma patients receiving first-line immunotherapy. The documented potential of 18F-FDG uptake by immune-mediating tissues such as the spleen to act as a biomarker for OS has been reproduced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Peisen
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Eberhard Karls University, Tuebingen University Hospital, Tuebingen, Germany
| | | | - Isabel Dahm
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Eberhard Karls University, Tuebingen University Hospital, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Konstantin Nikolaou
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Eberhard Karls University, Tuebingen University Hospital, Tuebingen, Germany
- Image-guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies (iFIT), The Cluster of Excellence (EXC 2180), Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Thomas Eigentler
- Center of Dermato-Oncology, Department of Dermatology, Eberhard Karls University, Tuebingen University Hospital, Tuebingen, Germany
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humbolt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Teresa Amaral
- Center of Dermato-Oncology, Department of Dermatology, Eberhard Karls University, Tuebingen University Hospital, Tuebingen, Germany
| | | | - Ahmed E. Othman
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Eberhard Karls University, Tuebingen University Hospital, Tuebingen, Germany
- Institute of Neuroradiology, Johannes Gutenberg University Hospital Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Sergios Gatidis
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Eberhard Karls University, Tuebingen University Hospital, Tuebingen, Germany
- Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, Tuebingen, Germany
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de Oliveira Filho RS, de Oliveira DA, Nisimoto MM, Marti LC. A Review of Advanced Cutaneous Melanoma Therapies and Their Mechanisms, from Immunotherapies to Lysine Histone Methyl Transferase Inhibitors. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5751. [PMID: 38136297 PMCID: PMC10741407 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15245751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Advanced cutaneous melanoma is considered to be the most aggressive type of skin cancer and has variable rates of treatment response. Currently, there are some classes of immunotherapy and target therapies for its treatment. Immunotherapy can inhibit tumor growth and its recurrence by triggering the host's immune system, whereas targeted therapy inhibits specific molecules or signaling pathways. However, melanoma responses to these treatments are highly heterogeneous, and patients can develop resistance. Epigenomics (DNA/histone modifications) contribute to cancer initiation and progression. Epigenetic alterations are divided into four levels of gene expression regulation: DNA methylation, histone modification, chromatin remodeling, and non-coding RNA regulation. Deregulation of lysine methyltransferase enzymes is associated with tumor initiation, invasion, development of metastases, changes in the immune microenvironment, and drug resistance. The study of lysine histone methyltransferase (KMT) and nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT) inhibitors is important for understanding cancer epigenetic mechanisms and biological processes. In addition to immunotherapy and target therapy, the research and development of KMT and NNMT inhibitors is ongoing. Many studies are exploring the therapeutic implications and possible side effects of these compounds, in addition to their adjuvant potential to the approved current therapies. Importantly, as with any drug development, safety, efficacy, and specificity are crucial considerations when developing methyltransferase inhibitors for clinical applications. Thus, this review article presents the recently available therapies and those in development for advanced cutaneous melanoma therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renato Santos de Oliveira Filho
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Escola Paulista de Medicina–Universidade Federal de São Paulo–EPM-UNIFESP, São Paulo 04023-062, SP, Brazil
| | - Daniel Arcuschin de Oliveira
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Universidade Federal de São Paulo–UNIFESP-Skin Cancer and Melanoma Fellow, São Paulo 04023-900, SP, Brazil;
| | | | - Luciana Cavalheiro Marti
- Experimental Research Department, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo 05652-900, SP, Brazil
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16
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Kerkour T, Zhou C, Hollestein L, Mooyaart A. Genetic Concordance in Primary Cutaneous Melanoma and Matched Metastasis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16281. [PMID: 38003476 PMCID: PMC10671327 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Studying primary melanoma and its corresponding metastasis has twofold benefits. Firstly, to better understand tumor biology, and secondly, to determine which sample should be examined in assessing drug targets. This study systematically analyzed all the literature on primary melanoma and its matched metastasis. Following PRISMA guidelines, we searched multiple medical databases for relevant publications from January 2000 to December 2022, assessed the quality of the primary-level studies using the QUIPS tool, and summarized the concordance rate of the most reported genes using the random-effects model. Finally, we evaluated the inter-study heterogeneity using the subgroup analysis. Thirty-one studies investigated the concordance of BRAF and NRAS in 1220 and 629 patients, respectively. The pooled concordance rate was 89.4% [95% CI: 84.5; 93.5] for BRAF and 97.8% [95% CI: 95.8; 99.4] for NRAS. When high-quality studies were considered, only BRAF mutation status consistency increased. Five studies reported the concordance status of c-KIT (93%, 44 patients) and TERT promoter (64%, 53 patients). Lastly, three studies analyzed the concordance of cancer genes involved in the signaling pathways, apoptosis, and proliferation, such as CDKN2A (25%, four patients), TP53 (44%, nine patients), and PIK3CA (20%, five patients). Our study found that the concordance of known drug targets (mainly BRAF) during melanoma progression is higher than in previous meta-analyses, likely due to advances in molecular techniques. Furthermore, significant heterogeneity exists in the genes involved in the melanoma genetic makeup; although our results are based on small patient samples, more research is necessary for validation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thamila Kerkour
- Department of Dermatology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (T.K.); (C.Z.); (L.H.)
| | - Catherine Zhou
- Department of Dermatology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (T.K.); (C.Z.); (L.H.)
| | - Loes Hollestein
- Department of Dermatology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (T.K.); (C.Z.); (L.H.)
| | - Antien Mooyaart
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Kim KH, Jung M, Lee HJ, Lee SJ, Kim M, Ahn MS, Choi MY, Lee NR, Shin SJ. A phase II study on the efficacy of regorafenib in treating patients with c-KIT-mutated metastatic malignant melanoma that progressed after previous treatment (KCSG-UN-14-13). Eur J Cancer 2023; 193:113312. [PMID: 37741071 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2023.113312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND c-KIT mutations are found in approximately 15% of patients with malignant melanoma in the Asian population. Regorafenib, an oral multikinase inhibitor, acts against both wild-type and mutant KIT. OBJECTIVE This multi-institutional, phase II, single-arm study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of regorafenib against metastatic malignant melanoma harbouring c-KIT mutations. METHODS Patients with metastatic melanoma positive for c-KIT mutations, upon progression after at least one line of systemic treatment, were enroled. Patients received oral regorafenib 160 mg once daily for 3 weeks (4-week cycle). The primary endpoint was disease control rate (DCR), and secondary endpoints were safety, overall response rate (ORR), progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS). RESULTS In total, 23 patients were enrolled. c-KIT mutations were frequently reported in exon 11 (14/23, 60.9%), followed by exons 13, 17, and 9 in 5 (21.7%), 5 (21.7%), and 2 (8.7%) patients, respectively. DCR at 8 weeks was 73.9%, with 2 patients (8.7%) achieving complete response, 5 (21.7%) achieving partial response, and 10 (43.5%) showing stable disease. ORR was 30.4% (7/23). The median follow-up period was 15.7 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 9.6-21.3), and median OS and PFS were 21.5 months (95% CI, 15.1-27.9) and 7.1 months (95% CI, 5.0-9.2), respectively. Circulating tumour DNA analysis in selected patients showed high c-KIT correlation (85.7%) with tissue-based tumour mutational profiles. The most common adverse events (AEs) were skin reactions, including palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia (52.2%), and grade 3 AEs were reported in 39.1% (9/23) of the patients. CONCLUSION Regorafenib in second- or later-line settings demonstrated significant activity in patients with metastatic melanoma harbouring c-KIT mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyoo Hyun Kim
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Minkyu Jung
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyo Jin Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cancer Research Institute, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Su Jin Lee
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Divison of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Miso Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University Cancer Research Institute, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Mi Sun Ahn
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Moon Young Choi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hemato-Oncology, Inje University Busan Paik Hospital, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Na-Ri Lee
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Jeonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Joon Shin
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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Gosman LM, Țăpoi DA, Costache M. Cutaneous Melanoma: A Review of Multifactorial Pathogenesis, Immunohistochemistry, and Emerging Biomarkers for Early Detection and Management. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15881. [PMID: 37958863 PMCID: PMC10650804 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242115881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous melanoma (CM) is an increasingly significant public health concern. Due to alarming mortality rates and escalating incidence, it is crucial to understand its etiology and identify emerging biomarkers for improved diagnosis and treatment strategies. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the multifactorial etiology of CM, underscore the importance of early detection, discuss the molecular mechanisms behind melanoma development and progression, and shed light on the role of the potential biomarkers in diagnosis and treatment. The pathogenesis of CM involves a complex interplay of genetic predispositions and environmental exposures, ultraviolet radiation exposure being the predominant environmental risk factor. The emergence of new biomarkers, such as novel immunohistochemical markers, gene mutation analysis, microRNA, and exosome protein expressions, holds promise for improved early detection, and prognostic and personalized therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Maria Gosman
- Doctoral School, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania;
- Department of Pathology, Saint Pantelimon Clinical Emergency Hospital, 021659 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Dana-Antonia Țăpoi
- Department of Pathology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania;
- Department of Pathology, University Emergency Hospital, 050098 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mariana Costache
- Department of Pathology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania;
- Department of Pathology, University Emergency Hospital, 050098 Bucharest, Romania
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Zhang C, Wu S. Hypomethylation of CD3D promoter induces immune cell infiltration and supports malignant phenotypes in uveal melanoma. FASEB J 2023; 37:e23128. [PMID: 37651092 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202300505rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Alterations in DNA methylation in malignant diseases have been heralded as promising targets for diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive values. This study was based on epigenetic alterations and immune cell infiltration analysis to investigate the mechanism of CD3D methylation in uveal melanoma (UM). Bioinformatics analysis was performed on transcriptome data, 450 K methylation data, and clinical information of UM patients from the TCGA database. Stromal and immune cell infiltration was evaluated by calculating the StromalScore and ImmuneScore of UM samples. UM samples were divided into high and low StromalScore and ImmuneScore groups, followed by differential and enrichment analyses. PPI network construction and correlation analysis was used to identify the core prognosis-related genes. The bioinformatics analysis results were confirmed in UM cell experiments. StromalScore and ImmuneScore were significantly associated with the prognosis of UM patients. CD3D, IRF1, CCL3, and FN1 were identified as core genes driven by methylation that affected the prognosis of UM patients. CD3D expression showed the highest correlation with its methylation and was closely related to the four key immune cells in UM development. CD3D was hypomethylated and abundantly expressed in UM cells, while silencing of CD3D inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of UM cells in vitro. In summary, this study identifies hypomethylation of CD3D promoter in UM, which was associated with immune cell infiltration of UM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Zhang
- Department of Strabismus and Pediatric Ophthalmology, the Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, P.R. China
| | - Shuai Wu
- Department of Orbital Disease and Ocular Plastic Surgery, the Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, P.R. China
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Abdellateif MS, Bayoumi AK, Mohammed MA. c-Kit Receptors as a Therapeutic Target in Cancer: Current Insights. Onco Targets Ther 2023; 16:785-799. [PMID: 37790582 PMCID: PMC10544070 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s404648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
c-Kit is a type III receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) that has an essential role in various biological functions including gametogenesis, melanogenesis, hematopoiesis, cell survival, and apoptosis. c-KIT aberrations, either overexpression or loss-of-function mutations, have been implicated in the pathogenesis and development of many cancers, including gastrointestinal stromal tumors, mastocytosis, acute myeloid leukemia, breast, thyroid, and colorectal cancer, making c-KIT an attractive molecular target for the treatment of cancers. Therefore, a lot of effort has been put into investigating the utility of tyrosine kinase inhibitors for the management of c-KIT mutated tumors. This review of the literature illustrates the role of c-KIT mutations in many cancers, aiming to provide insights into the role of TKIs as a therapeutic option for cancer patients with c-KIT aberrations. In conclusion, c-KIT is implicated in different types of cancer, and it could be a successful molecular target; however, proper detection of the underlying mutation type is required before starting the appropriate personalized therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona S Abdellateif
- Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cancer Biology Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, 11796, Egypt
| | - Ahmed K Bayoumi
- Paediatric Oncology Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, 11796, Egypt
- Children’s Cancer Hospital 57357, Cairo, 11617, Egypt
| | - Mohammed Aly Mohammed
- Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cancer Biology Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, 11796, Egypt
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Kuras M. Exploring the Complex and Multifaceted Interplay between Melanoma Cells and the Tumor Microenvironment. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14403. [PMID: 37762707 PMCID: PMC10531837 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241814403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Malignant melanoma is a very aggressive skin cancer, characterized by a heterogeneous nature and high metastatic potential. The incidence of melanoma is continuously increasing worldwide, and it is one of the most common cancers in young adults. In the past twenty years, our understanding of melanoma biology has increased profoundly, and disease management for patients with disseminated disease has improved due to the emergence of immunotherapy and targeted therapy. However, a significant fraction of patients relapse or do not respond adequately to treatment. This can partly be explained by the complex signaling between the tumor and its microenvironment, giving rise to melanoma phenotypes with different patterns of disease progression. This review focuses on the key aspects and complex relationship between pathogenesis, genetic abnormalities, tumor microenvironment, cellular plasticity, and metabolic reprogramming in melanoma. By acquiring a deeper understanding of the multifaceted features of melanomagenesis, we can reach a point of more individualized and patient-centered disease management and reduced costs of ineffective treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Kuras
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lund University, 221 00 Lund, Sweden;
- Section for Clinical Chemistry, Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, 205 02 Malmö, Sweden
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22
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Sun W, Xu Y, Yan W, Wang C, Hu T, Luo Z, Zhang X, Liu X, Chen Y. A real-world study of adjuvant anti-PD -1 immunotherapy on stage III melanoma with BRAF, NRAS, and KIT mutations. Cancer Med 2023; 12:15945-15954. [PMID: 37403699 PMCID: PMC10469738 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.6234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Melanoma frequently harbors BRAF, NRAS, or KIT mutations which influence both tumor development and treatment strategies. For example, it is still controversial whether adjuvant anti-PD-1 monotherapy or BRAF/MEK inhibitors may better improve the survival for resected BRAF-mutant melanoma. Furthermore, outcomes for melanoma with NRAS and KIT mutation receiving adjuvant immunotherapy remain unclear. METHODS One hundred seventy-four stage III melanoma patients who underwent radical surgery in Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center (FUSCC) during January 2017 to December 2021 were included in this real-world study. Patients were followed up until death or May 30th, 2022. Pearson's chi-squared test or Fisher's exact test was performed for univariable analysis of the different category groups. Log-rank analysis was used to identify the prognostic factors for disease-free survival (DFS). RESULTS There were 41 (23.6%) patients with BRAF mutation, 31 (17.8%) with NRAS mutation, 17 (9.8%) with KIT mutation, and 85 (48.9%) wild-type patients without either genomic alteration of those three genes. Most ( n = 118, 67.8%) of them were acral melanoma, while 45 (25.9%) were cutaneous subtype, and 11 were (6.3%) primary unknown. Among them, 115 (66.1%) patients received pembrolizumab or toripalimab monotherapy as adjuvant therapy; 22 (12.6%) patients received high-dose interferon (IFN), and 37 (21.3%) patients were just for observation. There was no statistical difference in clinicopathologic factors between anti-PD-1 group and IFN/OBS group. Of all the enrolled patients, anti-PD-1 group had a better DFS than IFN/OBS group ( p = 0.039). In anti-PD-1 group, patients with BRAF or NRAS mutations had poorer DFS than wild-type group. No survival difference was found among patients harboring different gene mutations in IFN/OBS group. In wild-type patients, anti-PD-1 group had a better DFS than IFN/OBS group ( p = 0.003), while no survival benefits were found for patients with BRAF, NRAS, or KIT mutations. CONCLUSION Although anti-PD-1 adjuvant therapy provides a better DFS in the general population and in wild-type patients, patients with BRAF, KIT or, especially, NRAS mutation may not benefit further from immunotherapy than conventional IFN treatment or observation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Sun
- Department of Musculoskeletal Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Yu Xu
- Department of Musculoskeletal Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - WangJun Yan
- Department of Musculoskeletal Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - ChunMeng Wang
- Department of Musculoskeletal Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Tu Hu
- Department of Musculoskeletal Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - ZhiGuo Luo
- Department of gastrointestinal medical oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - XiaoWei Zhang
- Department of gastrointestinal medical oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Xin Liu
- Department of Head&Neck tumors and Neuroendocrine tumors, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Yong Chen
- Department of Musculoskeletal Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
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Bhai P, Turowec J, Santos S, Kerkhof J, Pickard L, Foroutan A, Breadner D, Cecchini M, Levy MA, Stuart A, Welch S, Howlett C, Lin H, Sadikovic B. Molecular profiling of solid tumors by next-generation sequencing: an experience from a clinical laboratory. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1208244. [PMID: 37483495 PMCID: PMC10359709 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1208244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Personalized targeted therapies have transformed management of several solid tumors. Timely and accurate detection of clinically relevant genetic variants in tumor is central to the implementation of molecular targeted therapies. To facilitate precise molecular testing in solid tumors, targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) assays have emerged as a valuable tool. In this study, we provide an overview of the technical validation, diagnostic yields, and spectrum of variants observed in 3,164 solid tumor samples that were tested as part of the standard clinical diagnostic assessment in an academic healthcare institution over a period of 2 years. Methods The Ion Ampliseq™ Cancer Hotspot Panel v2 assay (ThermoFisher) that targets ~2,800 COSMIC mutations from 50 oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes was validated, and a total of 3,164 tumor DNA samples were tested in 2 years. A total of 500 tumor samples were tested by the comprehensive panel containing all the 50 genes. Other samples, including 1,375 lung cancer, 692 colon cancer, 462 melanoma, and 135 brain cancer, were tested by tumor-specific targeted subpanels including a few clinically actionable genes. Results Of 3,164 patient samples, 2,016 (63.7%) tested positive for at least one clinically relevant variant. Of 500 samples tested by a comprehensive panel, 290 had a clinically relevant variant with TP53, KRAS, and PIK3CA being the most frequently mutated genes. The diagnostic yields in major tumor types were as follows: breast (58.4%), colorectal (77.6%), lung (60.4%), pancreatic (84.6%), endometrial (72.4%), ovary (57.1%), and thyroid (73.9%). Tumor-specific targeted subpanels also demonstrated high diagnostic yields: lung (69%), colon (61.2%), melanoma (69.7%), and brain (20.7%). Co-occurrence of mutations in more than one gene was frequently observed. Conclusions The findings of our study demonstrate the feasibility of integrating an NGS-based gene panel screen as part of a standard diagnostic protocol for solid tumor assessment. High diagnostic rates enable significant clinical impact including improved diagnosis, prognosis, and clinical management in patients with solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pratibha Bhai
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, Canada
- Verspeeten Clinical Genome Centre, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, Canada
| | - Jacob Turowec
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, Canada
- Verspeeten Clinical Genome Centre, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, Canada
| | - Stephanie Santos
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Jennifer Kerkhof
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, Canada
- Verspeeten Clinical Genome Centre, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, Canada
| | - LeeAnne Pickard
- Department of Oncology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Aidin Foroutan
- Verspeeten Clinical Genome Centre, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, Canada
| | - Daniel Breadner
- Department of Oncology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Matthew Cecchini
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Michael A. Levy
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, Canada
- Verspeeten Clinical Genome Centre, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, Canada
| | - Alan Stuart
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, Canada
- Verspeeten Clinical Genome Centre, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, Canada
| | - Stephen Welch
- Department of Oncology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Christopher Howlett
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Hanxin Lin
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Alberta Precision Laboratories, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Bekim Sadikovic
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, Canada
- Verspeeten Clinical Genome Centre, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
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24
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Țăpoi DA, Gheorghișan-Gălățeanu AA, Dumitru AV, Ciongariu AM, Furtunescu AR, Marin A, Costache M. Primary Undifferentiated/Dedifferentiated Cutaneous Melanomas-A Review on Histological, Immunohistochemical, and Molecular Features with Emphasis on Prognosis and Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:9985. [PMID: 37373134 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24129985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Diagnosing cutaneous melanoma is usually straightforward based on these malignancies' histopathological and immunohistochemical features. Nevertheless, melanomas can imitate various other neoplasms, sometimes lacking the expression of conventional melanocytic markers and expressing non-melanocytic ones. Furthermore, divergent differentiation is more often encountered in metastatic melanomas and is still poorly described in primary cutaneous melanomas, and little is known about these patients' prognosis and therapeutic approach. Therefore, we reviewed the literature on undifferentiated/dedifferentiated cutaneous melanomas, and we discuss the histological, immunohistochemical, and molecular profiles of undifferentiated/dedifferentiated cutaneous melanomas to understand these peculiar lesions better and improve their diagnostic algorithm. In addition to this, we also discuss how different genetic mutations may influence prognosis and become potential therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana Antonia Țăpoi
- Department of Pathology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Pathology, University Emergency Hospital, 050098 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ancuța-Augustina Gheorghișan-Gălățeanu
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology and Histology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
- C.I. Parhon National Institute of Endocrinology, 011863 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Adrian Vasile Dumitru
- Department of Pathology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Pathology, University Emergency Hospital, 050098 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ana Maria Ciongariu
- Department of Pathology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Pathology, University Emergency Hospital, 050098 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Andreea Roxana Furtunescu
- Doctoral School, Faculty of Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Dermatology, Victor Babes Clinical Hospital, 030303 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Andrei Marin
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mariana Costache
- Department of Pathology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Pathology, University Emergency Hospital, 050098 Bucharest, Romania
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25
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Kaszuba A, Sławińska M, Żółkiewicz J, Sobjanek M, Nowicki RJ, Lange M. Mastocytosis and Skin Cancer: The Current State of Knowledge. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:9840. [PMID: 37372988 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24129840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Mastocytosis is a heterogeneous group of diseases associated with excessive proliferation and accumulation of mast cells in different organs. Recent studies have demonstrated that patients suffering from mastocytosis face an increased risk of melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer. The cause of this has not yet been clearly identified. In the literature, the potential influence of several factors has been suggested, including genetic background, the role of cytokines produced by mast cells, iatrogenic and hormonal factors. The article summarizes the current state of knowledge regarding the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and management of skin neoplasia in mastocytosis patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Kaszuba
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Smoluchowskiego Street 17, 80-214 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Martyna Sławińska
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Smoluchowskiego Street 17, 80-214 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Jakub Żółkiewicz
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Smoluchowskiego Street 17, 80-214 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Michał Sobjanek
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Smoluchowskiego Street 17, 80-214 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Roman J Nowicki
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Smoluchowskiego Street 17, 80-214 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Magdalena Lange
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Smoluchowskiego Street 17, 80-214 Gdańsk, Poland
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26
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González-Palomo AK, Ruíz-Rodríguez VM, Hernández-Blanco DV, Pérez Vázquez FJ, Alcántara-Quintana LE, Cortés-Garcia JD. Atrazine modifies markers of melanocyte maturation and apoptosis in primary skin cultures. Toxicol Mech Methods 2023; 33:233-238. [PMID: 36093949 DOI: 10.1080/15376516.2022.2124135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Atrazine (ATZ) is part of a group of herbicides called triazines. ATZ is widely used in agricultural areas of Mexico, commonly used for the selective control of weeds in corn and sorghum crops. The exposure to ATZ can have serious human health effects since its use was associated with the development of cutaneous melanoma in an epidemiological study. The aim of this study was to evaluate the expression of maturation and apoptotic markers in primary skin cultures exposed to ATZ. The primary skin cultures were exposed to 0.1, and 10 µM ATZ with or without ultraviolet (UV) radiation and the expression of maturation and apoptotic markers were evaluated by RT-qPCR. We observed a significant increase in all the melanocyte maturation markers in cells exposed to ATZ with or without UV, with SOX-9 and FAK (melanoblast markers) being the highest. Also, the expression of BCL-2 (anti-apoptotic marker) was the most increased gene in cells exposed to ATZ with or without UV. Low concentrations of ATZ and UV radiation induce genetic changes associated with the development of immature melanocytes and activate mechanisms associated with the inhibition of apoptosis characteristics of malignant cell transformation, which will allow proposing new therapeutic targets and generating new restrictions or care in farmers exposed to pesticides such as the ATZ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana K González-Palomo
- Coordinación para la Innvoación de la Ciencia y Tecnología (CIACYT), Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, San Luis Potosí, Mexico
| | - Victor M Ruíz-Rodríguez
- División de Biología Molecular, Laboratorio de Neurobiología, Instituto Potosino de Investigación Científica y Tecnológica (IPICYT), San Luis Potosí, México
| | - Diana V Hernández-Blanco
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, San Luis Potosí, México.,Departamento de Dermatologia, Hospital Central "Dr Ignacio Morones Prieto", San Luis Potosi, Mexico
| | - Francisco J Pérez Vázquez
- Coordinación para la Innvoación de la Ciencia y Tecnología (CIACYT), Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, San Luis Potosí, Mexico
| | - Luz E Alcántara-Quintana
- Coordinación para la Innvoación de la Ciencia y Tecnología (CIACYT), Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, San Luis Potosí, Mexico
| | - Juan D Cortés-Garcia
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, San Luis Potosí, México.,Departamento de Dermatologia, Hospital Central "Dr Ignacio Morones Prieto", San Luis Potosi, Mexico
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Mollapour Sisakht M, Amirkhani MA, Nilforoushzadeh MA. SWI/SNF complex, promising target in melanoma therapy: Snapshot view. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1096615. [PMID: 36844227 PMCID: PMC9947295 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1096615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic strategies based on epigenetic regulators are rapidly increasing in light of recent advances in discovering the role of epigenetic factors in response and sensitivity to therapy. Although loss-of-function mutations in genes encoding the SWItch/Sucrose NonFermentable (SWI/SNF) subunits play an important role in the occurrence of ~34% of melanomas, the potential of using inhibitors and synthetic lethality interactions between key subunits of the complex that play an important role in melanoma progression must be considered. Here, we discuss the importance of the clinical application of SWI/SNF subunits as a promising potential therapeutic in melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahsa Mollapour Sisakht
- Biotechnology Research Center, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,Department of Biochemistry, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands,*Correspondence: Mahsa Mollapour Sisakht ✉ ; ✉
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28
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Gong X, Lin X, Wang S, Ji D, Shu B, Huang ZS, Li D. Regulation of c-Kit gene transcription selectively by bisacridine derivative through promoter dual i-motif structures. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2023; 1866:194912. [PMID: 36754277 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2023.194912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND c-Kit protein is a signal transduction protein involved in multiple signal pathways, which play an important role in a variety of cellular events such as cell proliferation, apoptosis and differentiation. Special DNA secondary structures on the promoter of c-Kit gene, including G-quadruplex and i-motif structures, could act as "molecular switch" for gene transcriptional regulation, which are potentially important target for development of new anti-cancer drugs. METHODS We screened and evaluated the effect of compounds on c-Kit through several experiments, including SPR, FRET, CD, MST, NMR, dual-luciferase reporter assay, Western blot, qPCR, immunofluorescence, MTT assay, colony formation, cell scrape, cell apoptosis, cell cycle analysis, and transwell assay. RESULTS After extensive screening, we found that bisacridine derivative B05 had selective binding and stabilization to dual i-motif structures on c-Kit gene promoter, which could down-regulate c-Kit gene transcription and translation, resulting in inhibition of cell proliferation and metastasis. B05 exhibited potent anti-tumor activity on HGC-27 cells, and strongly suppressed tumor growth in HGC-27 xenograft mice model. CONCLUSIONS B05 could interact with c-Kit promoter dual i-motif structures with excellent selectivity, which make it possible for selective regulation of gene transcription and translation. B05 could be further developed for selective anti-cancer agent targeting c-Kit promoter i-motifs. GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE i-Motifs on different proto-oncogene promoters are diversified, and especially binding of dual i-motifs on the same promoter simultaneously could significantly down-regulate gene transcription with decreased dosage, and therefore increasing the selectivity. This new strategy shed bight light on development of selective DNA-targeting ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Gong
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou University City, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Xiaomin Lin
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou University City, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Siyi Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou University City, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Dongsheng Ji
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou University City, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Bing Shu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou University City, Guangzhou, PR China; School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Zhi-Shu Huang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou University City, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Ding Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou University City, Guangzhou, PR China.
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29
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Shan HJ, Jiang K, Zhao MZ, Deng WJ, Cao WH, Li JJ, Li KR, She C, Luo WF, Yao J, Zhou XZ, Zhang D, Cao C. SCF/c-Kit-activated signaling and angiogenesis require Gαi1 and Gαi3. Int J Biol Sci 2023; 19:1910-1924. [PMID: 37063428 PMCID: PMC10092767 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.82855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The stem cell factor (SCF) binds to c-Kit in endothelial cells, thus activating downstream signaling and angiogenesis. Herein, we examined the role of G protein subunit alpha inhibitory (Gαi) proteins in this process. In MEFs and HUVECs, Gαi1/3 was associated with SCF-activated c-Kit, promoting c-Kit endocytosis, and binding of key adaptor proteins, subsequently transducing downstream signaling. SCF-induced Akt-mTOR and Erk activation was robustly attenuated by Gαi1/3 silencing or knockout (KO), or due to dominant negative mutations but was strengthened substantially following ectopic overexpression of Gαi1/3. SCF-induced HUVEC proliferation, migration, and capillary tube formation were suppressed after Gαi1/3 silencing or KO, or due to dominant negative mutations. In vivo, endothelial knockdown of Gαi1/3 by intravitreous injection of endothelial-specific shRNA adeno-associated virus (AAV) potently reduced SCF-induced signaling and retinal angiogenesis in mice. Moreover, mRNA and protein expressions of SCF increased significantly in the retinal tissues of streptozotocin-induced diabetic retinopathy (DR) mice. SCF silencing, through intravitreous injection of SCF shRNA AAV, inhibited pathological retinal angiogenesis and degeneration of retinal ganglion cells in DR mice. Finally, the expression of SCF and c-Kit increased in proliferative retinal tissues of human patients with proliferative DR. Taken together, Gαi1/3 mediate SCF/c-Kit-activated signaling and angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua-jian Shan
- Clinical Research Center of Neurological Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Institution of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- The Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Kun Jiang
- Vascular Surgery Department, Kunshan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Kunshan, China
| | - Ming-zhi Zhao
- Clinical Research Center of Neurological Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Institution of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Wen-jing Deng
- Clinical Research Center of Neurological Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Institution of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Wen-hao Cao
- Clinical Research Center of Neurological Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Institution of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jia-jun Li
- The Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ke-ran Li
- The Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chang She
- Clinical Research Center of Neurological Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Institution of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Wei-feng Luo
- Clinical Research Center of Neurological Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Institution of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- ✉ Corresponding authors: Dr. Dan Zhang (), Prof. Wei-feng Luo (), Prof. Xiao-zhong Zhou (), Prof. Jin Yao () and Prof. Cong Cao ()
| | - Jin Yao
- The Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- ✉ Corresponding authors: Dr. Dan Zhang (), Prof. Wei-feng Luo (), Prof. Xiao-zhong Zhou (), Prof. Jin Yao () and Prof. Cong Cao ()
| | - Xiao-zhong Zhou
- Clinical Research Center of Neurological Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Institution of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- ✉ Corresponding authors: Dr. Dan Zhang (), Prof. Wei-feng Luo (), Prof. Xiao-zhong Zhou (), Prof. Jin Yao () and Prof. Cong Cao ()
| | - Dan Zhang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- ✉ Corresponding authors: Dr. Dan Zhang (), Prof. Wei-feng Luo (), Prof. Xiao-zhong Zhou (), Prof. Jin Yao () and Prof. Cong Cao ()
| | - Cong Cao
- Clinical Research Center of Neurological Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Institution of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- The Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- ✉ Corresponding authors: Dr. Dan Zhang (), Prof. Wei-feng Luo (), Prof. Xiao-zhong Zhou (), Prof. Jin Yao () and Prof. Cong Cao ()
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van der Merwe NC, Ntaita KS, Stofberg H, Combrink HM, Oosthuizen J, Kotze MJ. Implementation of multigene panel testing for breast and ovarian cancer in South Africa: A step towards excellence in oncology for the public sector. Front Oncol 2022; 12:938561. [PMID: 36568162 PMCID: PMC9768488 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.938561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Translation of genomic knowledge into public health benefits requires the implementation of evidence-based recommendations in clinical practice. In this study, we moved beyond BRCA1/2 susceptibility testing in breast and ovarian cancer patients to explore the application of pharmacogenetics across multiple genes participating in homologous recombination DNA damage repair. This involved the utilisation of next-generation sequencing (NGS) at the intersection of research and service delivery for development of a comprehensive genetic testing platform in South Africa. Lack of international consensus regarding risk categorization of established cancer susceptibility genes and the level of evidence required for prediction of drug response supported the development of a central database to facilitate clinical interpretation. Here we demonstrate the value of this approach using NGS to 1) determine the variant spectrum applicable to targeted therapy and implementation of prevention strategies using the 15-gene Oncomine™ BRCA Expanded Panel, and 2) searched for novel and known pathogenic variants in uninformative cases using whole exome sequencing (WES). Targeted NGS performed as a routine clinical service in 414 South African breast and/or ovarian cancer patients resulted in the detection of 48 actionable variants among 319 (15%) cases. BRCA1/2-associated cancers were identified in 70.8% of patients (34/48, including two double-heterozygotes), with the majority (35.3%, 12/34) representing known South African founder variants. Detection of actionable variants in established non-BRCA1/2 risk genes contributed 29% to the total percentage (14/48), distributed amongst ATM, CHEK2, BARD1, BRIP1, PALB2 and TP53. Experimental WES using a virtually constructed multi-cancer NGS panel in 16 genetically unresolved cases (and four controls) revealed novel protein truncating variants in the basal cell carcinoma gene PTCH1 (c.4187delG) and the signal transmission and transduction gene KIT (c.930delA) involved in crucial cellular processes. Based on these findings, the most cost-effective approach would be to perform BRCA1/2 founder variant testing at referral, followed by targeted multigene panel testing if clinically indicated and addition of WES in unresolved cases. This inventive step provides a constant flow of new knowledge into the diagnostic platform via a uniquely South African pathology-supported genetic approach implemented for the first time in this context to integrate research with service delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nerina C. van der Merwe
- Division of Human Genetics, National Health Laboratory Service, Universitas Hospital, Bloemfontein, South Africa,Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa,*Correspondence: Nerina C. van der Merwe,
| | - Kholiwe S. Ntaita
- Division of Human Genetics, National Health Laboratory Service, Universitas Hospital, Bloemfontein, South Africa,Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Hanri Stofberg
- Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Herkulaas MvE. Combrink
- Office of the Dean, Economic and Management Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa,Interdisciplinary Centre for Digital Futures, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Jaco Oosthuizen
- Division of Human Genetics, National Health Laboratory Service, Universitas Hospital, Bloemfontein, South Africa,Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Maritha J. Kotze
- Division of Chemical Pathology, Department of Pathology, National Health Laboratory Service, Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa,Division of Chemical Pathology, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
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Wang C, Zhang Y, Hu X, Wang L, Xu Z, Xing H. Novel pathogenic variants in KIT gene in three Chinese piebaldism patients. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:1040747. [DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.1040747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundPiebaldism is a rare autosomal dominant disease, and roughly 75% patients had KIT gene mutations. Up to date, approximately 90 KIT mutations causing piebaldism were reported.MethodsTo identify KIT gene mutations in three pediatric piebaldism patients from different families and explore the genotype-phenotype correlation, peripheral blood DNA were collected from probands and their parents. Whole-exome sequencing was performed to detect potential disease-causing variants in the three probands. Putative variants were validated by Sanger sequencing.ResultsHeterozygous variants of c.2469_2484del (p.Tyr823*), c.1994G > C (p.Pro665Leu), and c.1982_1983insCAT (p.662_663insIle) in KIT gene were detected in three probands. These variants were all novel and classified as pathogenic/likely pathogenic variants according to the interpretation guidelines of American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics and the Association for Molecular Pathology. The probands carrying variants located in tyrosine kinase domain exhibited a more severe phenotype.ConclusionThe piebaldism in three families was caused by novel heterozygous KIT variants. The severity of phenotypes is related with the types and locations of different mutations. Our results further provided evidence for genetic counseling for the three families.
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Jung S, Armstrong E, Wei AZ, Ye F, Lee A, Carlino MS, Sullivan RJ, Carvajal RD, Shoushtari AN, Johnson DB. Clinical and genomic correlates of imatinib response in melanomas with KIT alterations. Br J Cancer 2022; 127:1726-1732. [PMID: 35999272 PMCID: PMC9596433 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-022-01942-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Imatinib is an active agent for some patients with melanoma harbouring c-KIT alterations. However, the genetic and clinical features that correlate with imatinib sensitivity are not well-defined. METHODS We retrospectively evaluated 38 KIT-altered melanoma patients from five medical centres who received imatinib, and pooled data from prospective studies of imatinib in 92 KIT-altered melanoma patients. Baseline patient and disease characteristics, and clinical outcomes were assessed. RESULTS In the pooled analysis (N = 130), alterations in exons 11/13 had the highest response rates (38% and 33%); L576P (N = 23) and K642E (N = 12) mutations had ORR of 52% and 42%, respectively. ORR was 38% (mucosal), 25% (acral), and 8% (unknown-primary). PFS appeared longer in exon 11/13 vs. exon 17 alterations (median 4.3 and 4.5 vs. 1.1 months; p = 0.19), with similar superiority in OS (median 19.7 and 15.4 vs. 12.1 months; p = 0.20). By histology, median PFS was 4.5 months (mucosal), 2.7 (acral), and 5.0 (unknown-primary) [p = 0.36]. Median OS was 18.0 months (mucosal), 21.8 (acral), 11.5 (unknown-primary) [p = 0.26]. In multivariate analyses, mucosal melanoma was associated with higher PFS and exon 17 mutations were associated with reduced PFS. CONCLUSION This multicenter study highlights KIT-alterations sensitive to imatinib and augments evidence for imatinib in subsets of KIT-altered melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seungyeon Jung
- Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Emma Armstrong
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alexander Z Wei
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Fei Ye
- Department of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Aaron Lee
- Department of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Matteo S Carlino
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Ryan J Sullivan
- Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Richard D Carvajal
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Douglas B Johnson
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center and Vanderbilt Ingram Cancer Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
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Novel Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets for Melanoma. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231911656. [PMID: 36232957 PMCID: PMC9570448 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Malignant melanoma is one of the most common cancers in the world. In the disease’s early stages, treatment involves surgery, in advanced stages however, treatment options were once scarce. There has been a paradigm shift in advanced melanoma treatment with the introduction of immunotherapy and targeted therapies. Understanding the molecular pathways and their pathologic counterparts helped identifying specific biomarkers that lead to the development of specific targeted therapies. In this review we briefly present some of these markers and their relevance to melanoma treatment.
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Loras A, Gil-Barrachina M, Marqués-Torrejón MÁ, Perez-Pastor G, Martinez-Cadenas C. UV-Induced Somatic Mutations Driving Clonal Evolution in Healthy Skin, Nevus, and Cutaneous Melanoma. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:life12091339. [PMID: 36143375 PMCID: PMC9503451 DOI: 10.3390/life12091339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Due to its aggressiveness, cutaneous melanoma (CM) is responsible for most skin cancer-related deaths worldwide. The origin of CM is closely linked to the appearance of UV-induced somatic mutations in melanocytes present in normal skin or in CM precursor lesions (nevi or dysplastic nevi). In recent years, new NGS studies performed on CM tissue have increased the understanding of the genetic somatic changes underlying melanomagenesis and CM tumor progression. Methods: We reviewed the literature using all important scientific databases. All articles related to genomic mutations in CM as well as normal skin and nevi were included, in particular those related to somatic mutations produced by UV radiation. Conclusions: CM development and progression are strongly associated with exposure to UV radiation, although each melanoma subtype has different characteristic genetic alterations and evolutionary trajectories. While BRAF and NRAS mutations are common in the early stages of tumor development for most CM subtypes, changes in CDKN2A, TP53 and PTEN, together with TERT promoter mutations, are especially common in advanced stages. Additionally, large genome duplications, loss of heterozygosity, and copy number variations are hallmarks of metastatic disease. Finally, the mutations driving melanoma targeted-therapy drug resistance are also summarized. The complete sequential stages of clonal evolution leading to CM onset from normal skin or nevi are still unknown, so further studies are needed in this field to shed light on the molecular pathways involved in CM malignant transformation and in melanoma acquired drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alba Loras
- Department of Medicine, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Jaume I University of Castellon, 12071 Castellon, Spain
| | | | | | - Gemma Perez-Pastor
- Department of Dermatology, Valencia General University Hospital, 46014 Valencia, Spain
| | - Conrado Martinez-Cadenas
- Department of Medicine, Jaume I University of Castellon, 12071 Castellon, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-964387607
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Kraiger M, Klein-Rodewald T, Rathkolb B, Calzada-Wack J, Sanz-Moreno A, Fuchs H, Wolf E, Gailus-Durner V, de Angelis MH. Monitoring longitudinal disease progression in a novel murine Kit tumor model using high-field MRI. Sci Rep 2022; 12:14608. [PMID: 36028522 PMCID: PMC9418174 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-17880-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Animal models are an indispensable platform used in various research disciplines, enabling, for example, studies of basic biological mechanisms, pathological processes and new therapeutic interventions. In this study, we applied magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to characterize the clinical picture of a novel N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea-induced Kit-mutant mouse in vivo. Seven C3H KitN824K/WT mutant animals each of both sexes and their littermates were monitored every other month for a period of twelve months. MRI relaxometry data of hematopoietic bone marrow and splenic tissue as well as high-resolution images of the gastrointestinal organs were acquired. Compared with controls, the mutants showed a dynamic change in the shape and volume of the cecum and enlarged Peyer´s patches were identified throughout the entire study. Mammary tumors were observed in the majority of mutant females and were first detected at eight months of age. Using relaxation measurements, a substantial decrease in longitudinal relaxation times in hematopoietic tissue was detected in mutants at one year of age. In contrast, transverse relaxation time of splenic tissue showed no differences between genotypes, except in two mutant mice, one of which had leukemia and the other hemangioma. In this study, in vivo MRI was used for the first time to thoroughly characterize the evolution of systemic manifestations of a novel Kit-induced tumor model and to document the observable organ-specific disease cascade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Kraiger
- Institute of Experimental Genetics, German Mouse Clinic, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany.
| | - Tanja Klein-Rodewald
- Institute of Experimental Genetics, German Mouse Clinic, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Birgit Rathkolb
- Institute of Experimental Genetics, German Mouse Clinic, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany.,German Center for Diabetes Research, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany.,Institute of Molecular Animal Breeding and Biotechnology, Gene Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Julia Calzada-Wack
- Institute of Experimental Genetics, German Mouse Clinic, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Adrián Sanz-Moreno
- Institute of Experimental Genetics, German Mouse Clinic, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Helmut Fuchs
- Institute of Experimental Genetics, German Mouse Clinic, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Eckhard Wolf
- Institute of Molecular Animal Breeding and Biotechnology, Gene Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Valérie Gailus-Durner
- Institute of Experimental Genetics, German Mouse Clinic, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Martin Hrabě de Angelis
- Institute of Experimental Genetics, German Mouse Clinic, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany.,German Center for Diabetes Research, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany.,Chair of Experimental Genetics, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technische Universität München, Freising, Germany
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Bourzikat O, El Abbouchi A, Ghammaz H, El Brahmi N, El Fahime E, Paris A, Daniellou R, Suzenet F, Guillaumet G, El Kazzouli S. Synthesis, Anticancer Activities and Molecular Docking Studies of a Novel Class of 2-Phenyl-5,6,7,8-tetrahydroimidazo [1,2-b]pyridazine Derivatives Bearing Sulfonamides. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27165238. [PMID: 36014478 PMCID: PMC9416205 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27165238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In the present study, new 2-phenyl-5,6,7,8-tetrahydroimidazo [1,2-b]pyridazines bearing sulfonamides were synthesized, characterized and evaluated for their anticancer activities. The structures of these derivatives were elucidated by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, infrared and high-resolution mass spectrometry for further validation of the target compound structures. The anticancer activities of the new molecules were evaluated against five human cancer cell lines, including A-549, Hs-683, MCF-7, SK-MEL-28 and B16-F10 cell lines using 5-fluorouracil and etoposide as the reference drugs. Among the tested compounds, 4e and 4f exhibited excellent activities in the same range of the positive controls, 5-fluorouracil and etoposide, against MCF-7 and SK-MEL-28 cancer cell lines, with IC50 values ranging from 1 to 10 μM. The molecular docking studies of 4e and 4f showed a strong binding with some kinases, which are linked to MCF-7 and SK-MEL-28 cancer cell lines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Otmane Bourzikat
- Euromed Research Center, Euromed Faculty of Pharmacy, Euromed University of Fes (UEMF), Meknes Road, Fez 30000, Morocco
- Institut de Chimie Organique et Analytique, Université d’Orléans, UMR CNRS 7311, BP 6759, CEDEX 2, 45067 Orléans, France
| | - Abdelmoula El Abbouchi
- Euromed Research Center, Euromed Faculty of Pharmacy, Euromed University of Fes (UEMF), Meknes Road, Fez 30000, Morocco
| | - Hamza Ghammaz
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique et Technique (CNRST), Angle Avenues des FAR et Allal El Fassi, Hay Ryad, Rabat 10102, Morocco
| | - Nabil El Brahmi
- Euromed Research Center, Euromed Faculty of Pharmacy, Euromed University of Fes (UEMF), Meknes Road, Fez 30000, Morocco
| | - Elmostfa El Fahime
- Euromed Research Center, Euromed Faculty of Pharmacy, Euromed University of Fes (UEMF), Meknes Road, Fez 30000, Morocco
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique et Technique (CNRST), Angle Avenues des FAR et Allal El Fassi, Hay Ryad, Rabat 10102, Morocco
| | - Arnaud Paris
- Institut de Chimie Organique et Analytique, Université d’Orléans, UMR CNRS 7311, BP 6759, CEDEX 2, 45067 Orléans, France
| | - Richard Daniellou
- Institut de Chimie Organique et Analytique, Université d’Orléans, UMR CNRS 7311, BP 6759, CEDEX 2, 45067 Orléans, France
| | - Franck Suzenet
- Institut de Chimie Organique et Analytique, Université d’Orléans, UMR CNRS 7311, BP 6759, CEDEX 2, 45067 Orléans, France
| | - Gérald Guillaumet
- Euromed Research Center, Euromed Faculty of Pharmacy, Euromed University of Fes (UEMF), Meknes Road, Fez 30000, Morocco
- Institut de Chimie Organique et Analytique, Université d’Orléans, UMR CNRS 7311, BP 6759, CEDEX 2, 45067 Orléans, France
| | - Saïd El Kazzouli
- Euromed Research Center, Euromed Faculty of Pharmacy, Euromed University of Fes (UEMF), Meknes Road, Fez 30000, Morocco
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +212-661299565
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Treatment of Metastatic Melanoma with a Combination of Immunotherapies and Molecularly Targeted Therapies. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14153779. [PMID: 35954441 PMCID: PMC9367420 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14153779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Revised: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Immunotherapies and molecularly targeted therapies have drastically changed the therapeutic approach for unresectable advanced or metastatic melanoma. The majority of melanoma patients have benefitted from these therapies; however, some patients acquire resistance to them. Novel combinations of immunotherapies and molecularly targeted therapies may be more efficient in treating these patients. In this review, we discuss various combination therapies under pre-clinical and clinical development which can reduce toxicity, enhance efficacy, and prevent recurrences in patients with metastatic melanoma. Abstract Melanoma possesses invasive metastatic growth patterns and is one of the most aggressive types of skin cancer. In 2021, it is estimated that 7180 deaths were attributed to melanoma in the United States alone. Once melanoma metastasizes, traditional therapies are no longer effective. Instead, immunotherapies, such as ipilimumab, pembrolizumab, and nivolumab, are the treatment options for malignant melanoma. Several biomarkers involved in tumorigenesis have been identified as potential targets for molecularly targeted melanoma therapy, such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). Unfortunately, melanoma quickly acquires resistance to these molecularly targeted therapies. To bypass resistance, combination treatment with immunotherapies and single or multiple TKIs have been employed and have been shown to improve the prognosis of melanoma patients compared to monotherapy. This review discusses several combination therapies that target melanoma biomarkers, such as BRAF, MEK, RAS, c-KIT, VEGFR, c-MET and PI3K. Several of these regimens are already FDA-approved for treating metastatic melanoma, while others are still in clinical trials. Continued research into the causes of resistance and factors influencing the efficacy of these combination treatments, such as specific mutations in oncogenic proteins, may further improve the effectiveness of combination therapies, providing a better prognosis for melanoma patients.
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Cabaço LC, Tomás A, Pojo M, Barral DC. The Dark Side of Melanin Secretion in Cutaneous Melanoma Aggressiveness. Front Oncol 2022; 12:887366. [PMID: 35619912 PMCID: PMC9128548 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.887366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Skin cancers are among the most common cancers worldwide and are increasingly prevalent. Cutaneous melanoma (CM) is characterized by the malignant transformation of melanocytes in the epidermis. Although CM shows lower incidence than other skin cancers, it is the most aggressive and responsible for the vast majority of skin cancer-related deaths. Indeed, 75% of patients present with invasive or metastatic tumors, even after surgical excision. In CM, the photoprotective pigment melanin, which is produced by melanocytes, plays a central role in the pathology of the disease. Melanin absorbs ultraviolet radiation and scavenges reactive oxygen/nitrogen species (ROS/RNS) resulting from the radiation exposure. However, the scavenged ROS/RNS modify melanin and lead to the induction of signature DNA damage in CM cells, namely cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers, which are known to promote CM immortalization and carcinogenesis. Despite triggering the malignant transformation of melanocytes and promoting initial tumor growth, the presence of melanin inside CM cells is described to negatively regulate their invasiveness by increasing cell stiffness and reducing elasticity. Emerging evidence also indicates that melanin secreted from CM cells is required for the immunomodulation of tumor microenvironment. Indeed, melanin transforms dermal fibroblasts in cancer-associated fibroblasts, suppresses the immune system and promotes tumor angiogenesis, thus sustaining CM progression and metastasis. Here, we review the current knowledge on the role of melanin secretion in CM aggressiveness and the molecular machinery involved, as well as the impact in tumor microenvironment and immune responses. A better understanding of this role and the molecular players involved could enable the modulation of melanin secretion to become a therapeutic strategy to impair CM invasion and metastasis and, hence, reduce the burden of CM-associated deaths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luís C Cabaço
- Chronic Diseases Research Center (CEDOC), NOVA Medical School, NMS, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ana Tomás
- Unidade de Investigação em Patobiologia Molecular (UIPM), Instituto Português de Oncologia de Lisboa Francisco Gentil E.P.E., Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Marta Pojo
- Unidade de Investigação em Patobiologia Molecular (UIPM), Instituto Português de Oncologia de Lisboa Francisco Gentil E.P.E., Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Duarte C Barral
- Chronic Diseases Research Center (CEDOC), NOVA Medical School, NMS, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
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Switzer B, Puzanov I, Skitzki JJ, Hamad L, Ernstoff MS. Managing Metastatic Melanoma in 2022: A Clinical Review. JCO Oncol Pract 2022; 18:335-351. [PMID: 35133862 PMCID: PMC9810138 DOI: 10.1200/op.21.00686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous melanoma remains the most lethal of the primary cutaneous neoplasms, and although the incidence of primary melanoma continues to rise, the mortality from metastatic disease remains unchanged, in part through advances in treatment. Major developments in immunomodulatory and targeted therapies have provided robust improvements in response and survival trends that have transformed the clinical management of patients with metastatic melanoma. Additional advances in immunologic and cancer cell biology have contributed to further optimization in (1) risk stratification, (2) prognostication, (3) treatment, (4) toxicity management, and (5) surveillance approaches for patients with an advanced melanoma diagnosis. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the historical and future advances regarding the translational and clinical implications of advanced melanoma and share multidisciplinary recommendations to aid clinicians in the navigation of current treatment approaches for a variety of patient cohorts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Switzer
- Department of Medicine, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY
| | - Igor Puzanov
- Department of Medicine, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY
| | - Joseph J. Skitzki
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY
| | - Lamya Hamad
- Department of Pharmacy, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY
| | - Marc S. Ernstoff
- ImmunoOncology Branch, Developmental Therapeutics Program, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD,Marc S. Ernstoff, MD, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD 20850; e-mail:
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Janowska A, Iannone M, Fidanzi C, Romanelli M, Filippi L, Del Re M, Martins M, Dini V. The Genetic Basis of Dormancy and Awakening in Cutaneous Metastatic Melanoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:2104. [PMID: 35565234 PMCID: PMC9102235 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14092104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune dysregulation, in combination with genetic and epigenetic alterations, induces an excessive proliferation of uncontrolled melanoma cells followed by dissemination of the tumor cells to distant sites, invading organs and creating metastasis. Although immunotherapy, checkpoint inhibitors and molecular targeted therapies have been developed as treatment options for advanced melanoma, there are specific mechanisms by which cancer cells can escape treatment. One of the main factors associated with reduced response to therapy is the ability of residual tumor cells to persist in a dormant state, without proliferation. This comprehensive review aimed at understanding the genetic basis of dormancy/awakening phenomenon in metastatic melanoma will help identify the possible therapeutical strategies that might eliminate melanoma circulating tumor cells (CTCs) or keep them in the dormant state forever, thereby repressing tumor relapse and metastatic spread.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agata Janowska
- Unit of Dermatology, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (M.I.); (C.F.); (M.R.); (M.M.); (V.D.)
| | - Michela Iannone
- Unit of Dermatology, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (M.I.); (C.F.); (M.R.); (M.M.); (V.D.)
| | - Cristian Fidanzi
- Unit of Dermatology, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (M.I.); (C.F.); (M.R.); (M.M.); (V.D.)
| | - Marco Romanelli
- Unit of Dermatology, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (M.I.); (C.F.); (M.R.); (M.M.); (V.D.)
| | - Luca Filippi
- Unit of Neonatology, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Marzia Del Re
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacogenetics, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Manuella Martins
- Unit of Dermatology, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (M.I.); (C.F.); (M.R.); (M.M.); (V.D.)
| | - Valentina Dini
- Unit of Dermatology, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (M.I.); (C.F.); (M.R.); (M.M.); (V.D.)
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Xi S, Yang YG, Suo J, Sun T. Research Progress on Gene Editing Based on Nano-Drug Delivery Vectors for Tumor Therapy. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:873369. [PMID: 35419357 PMCID: PMC8996155 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.873369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Malignant tumors pose a serious threat to human health and have high fatality rates. Conventional clinical anti-tumor treatment is mainly based on traditional surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and interventional therapy, and even though these treatment methods are constantly updated, a satisfactory efficacy is yet to be obtained. Therefore, research on novel cancer treatments is being actively pursued. We review the classification of gene therapies of malignant tumors and their advantages, as well as the development of gene editing techniques. We further reveal the nano-drug delivery carrier effect in improving the efficiency of gene editing. Finally, we summarize the progress in recent years of gene editing techniques based on nano-drug delivery carriers in the treatment of various malignant tumors, and analyze the prospects of the technique and its restricting factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiwen Xi
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Transplantation of Ministry of Education, Institute of Immunology, The First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Gastrointestinal Surgical Department, The First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yong-Guang Yang
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Transplantation of Ministry of Education, Institute of Immunology, The First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
- National-local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Diseases, Changchun, China
- International Center of Future Science, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jian Suo
- Gastrointestinal Surgical Department, The First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
- *Correspondence: Tianmeng Sun, ; Jian Suo,
| | - Tianmeng Sun
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Transplantation of Ministry of Education, Institute of Immunology, The First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
- National-local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Diseases, Changchun, China
- International Center of Future Science, Jilin University, Changchun, China
- *Correspondence: Tianmeng Sun, ; Jian Suo,
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Ledoux J, Trouvé A, Tchertanov L. The Inherent Coupling of Intrinsically Disordered Regions in the Multidomain Receptor Tyrosine Kinase KIT. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031589. [PMID: 35163518 PMCID: PMC8835827 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
RTK KIT regulates a variety of crucial cellular processes via its cytoplasmic domain (CD), which is composed of the tyrosine kinase domain, crowned by the highly flexible domains—the juxtamembrane region, kinase insertion domain, and C-tail, which are key recruitment regions for downstream signalling proteins. To prepare a structural basis for the characterization of the interactions of KIT with its signalling proteins (KIT INTERACTOME), we generated the 3D model of the full-length CD attached to the transmembrane helix. This generic model of KIT in inactive state was studied by molecular dynamics simulation under conditions mimicking the natural environment of KIT. With the accurate atomistic description of the multidomain KIT dynamics, we explained its intrinsic (intra-domain) and extrinsic (inter-domain) disorder and represented the conformational assemble of KIT through free energy landscapes. Strongly coupled movements within each domain and between distant domains of KIT prove the functional interdependence of these regions, described as allosteric regulation, a phenomenon widely observed in many proteins. We suggested that KIT, in its inactive state, encodes all properties of the active protein and its post-transduction events.
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Hirai I, Tanese K, Fukuda K, Fusumae T, Nakamura Y, Sato Y, Amagai M, Funakoshi T. Imatinib mesylate in combination with pembrolizumab in patients with advanced KIT-mutant melanoma following progression on standard therapy: A phase I/II trial and study protocol. Medicine (Baltimore) 2021; 100:e27832. [PMID: 34889232 PMCID: PMC8663894 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000027832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Genetic alterations of KIT gene are known to be one of the major causes of melanoma. Those are more common in the mucous and acral subtypes and KIT is regarded as major oncogene in Asian melanomas, where the prevalence of these subtypes is high. Up to date, several clinical trials have been conducted to target KIT gene alterations in melanoma with unsatisfied efficacies. Imatinib mesylate, a small-molecule inhibitor of the KIT tyrosine kinase, provides a rapid but not durable clinical response in KIT-mutant melanoma. Meanwhile, recent basic and clinical evidence have revealed another aspect of KIT-targeted therapy, namely the enhancement of antitumor activity of immune checkpoint inhibitors. Herein, we designed clinical trial of co-administrating imatinib mesylate and pembrolizumab (anti-PD-1 antibody) to evaluate its safety and efficacy. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This is an open-label, single-arm, phase I/II clinical trial involving Japanese patients with metastatic KIT-mutant melanoma that are refractory to standard therapy including anti-PD-1 therapy. Phase I study is a dose-escalation study comprising two dose levels of imatinib mesylate (200 and 400 mg/day, respectively) with fixed dose of pembrolizumab (200 mg every 3 weeks) to evaluate safety and tolerability and determine recommended phase II dose. The primary endpoint of the phase II study is the objective response rate after 4 cycles (3 weeks/cycle) of pembrolizumab and imatinib mesylate at the dose determined in phase I, based on RECIST version 1.1. A Simon's minimax two-stage design is employed to test the null hypothesis of a 5% response rate vs 30% alternative, which will be rejected when a lower confidence limit of two-sided 90% confidence interval of true response rate is over than threshold response rate. The secondary endpoints include progression free survival, overall survival, best overall response and incidence of adverse events. Totally, a target size of 22 patients will be expected. DISCUSSION If this study shows efficacy and acceptable safety profile, it will contribute to the development of novel treatment option for patients with KIT-mutant melanoma that are refractory to standard therapy. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT04546074. Date of Registration: September 11, 2020 (https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04546074). Date of First Participant Enrollment: December 23, 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ikuko Hirai
- Department of Dermatology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Keiji Tanese
- Department of Dermatology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Keitaro Fukuda
- Department of Dermatology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takayuki Fusumae
- Department of Dermatology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshio Nakamura
- Department of Dermatology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasunori Sato
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masayuki Amagai
- Department of Dermatology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takeru Funakoshi
- Department of Dermatology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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Khaddour K, Maahs L, Avila-Rodriguez AM, Maamar Y, Samaan S, Ansstas G. Melanoma Targeted Therapies beyond BRAF-Mutant Melanoma: Potential Druggable Mutations and Novel Treatment Approaches. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:5847. [PMID: 34831002 PMCID: PMC8616477 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13225847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanomas exhibit the highest rate of somatic mutations among all different types of cancers (with the exception of BCC and SCC). The accumulation of a multimode of mutations in the driver oncogenes are responsible for the proliferative, invasive, and aggressive nature of melanomas. High-resolution and high-throughput technology has led to the identification of distinct mutational signatures and their downstream alterations in several key pathways that contribute to melanomagenesis. This has enabled the development of individualized treatments by targeting specific molecular alterations that are vital for cancer cell survival, which has resulted in improved outcomes in several cancers, including melanomas. To date, BRAF and MEK inhibitors remain the only approved targeted therapy with a high level of evidence in BRAFV600E/K mutant melanomas. The lack of approved precision drugs in melanomas, relative to other cancers, despite harboring one of the highest rates of somatic mutations, advocates for further research to unveil effective therapeutics. In this review, we will discuss potential druggable mutations and the ongoing research of novel individualized treatment approaches targeting non-BRAF mutations in melanomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karam Khaddour
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University in Saint Louis, Saint Louis, MO 63130, USA
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; (L.M.); (A.M.A.-R.)
| | - Lucas Maahs
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; (L.M.); (A.M.A.-R.)
| | - Ana Maria Avila-Rodriguez
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; (L.M.); (A.M.A.-R.)
| | - Yazan Maamar
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Tishreen Lattakia, Lattakia 2217, Syria;
| | - Sami Samaan
- Department of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107, Lebanon;
| | - George Ansstas
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University in Saint Louis, Saint Louis, MO 63130, USA
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Beleaua MA, Jung I, Braicu C, Milutin D, Gurzu S. Relevance of BRAF Subcellular Localization and Its Interaction with KRAS and KIT Mutations in Skin Melanoma. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:11918. [PMID: 34769348 PMCID: PMC8584522 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Although skin melanoma (SKM) represents only one-quarter of newly diagnosed skin malignant tumors, it presents a high mortality rate. Hence, new prognostic and therapeutic tools need to be developed. This study focused on investigating the prognostic value of the subcellular expression of BRAF, KRAS, and KIT in SKM in correlation with their gene-encoding interactions. In silico analysis of the abovementioned gene interactions, along with their mRNA expression, was conducted, and the results were validated at the protein level using immunohistochemical (IHC) stains. For IHC expression, the encoded protein expressions were checked on 96 consecutive SKMs and 30 nevi. The UALCAN database showed no prognostic value for the mRNA expression level of KRAS and BRAF and demonstrated a longer survival for patients with low mRNA expression of KIT in SKMs. IHC examinations of SKMs confirmed the UALCAN data and showed that KIT expression was inversely correlated with ulceration, Breslow index, mitotic rate, and pT stage. KRAS expression was also found to be inversely correlated with ulceration and perineural invasion. When the subcellular expression of BRAF protein was recorded (nuclear vs. cytoplasmatic vs. mixed nucleus + cytoplasm), a direct correlation was emphasized between nuclear positivity and lymphovascular or perineural invasion. The independent prognostic value was demonstrated for mixed expression of the BRAF protein in SKM. BRAF cytoplasmic predominance, in association with KIT's IHC positivity, was more frequently observed in early-stage nonulcerated SKMs, which displayed a low mitotic rate and a late death event. The present study firstly verified the possible prognostic value of BRAF subcellular localization in SKMs. A low mRNA expression or IHC cytoplasmic positivity for KIT and BRAF might be used as a positive prognostic parameter of SKM. SKM's BRAF nuclear positivity needs to be evaluated in further studies as a possible indicator of perineural and lymphovascular invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marius-Alexandru Beleaua
- Department of Pathology, George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology, 38 Gheorghe Marinescu Street, 540139 Targu Mures, Romania;
- Department of Pathology, Clinical County Emergency Hospital, 540139 Targu Mures, Romania; (I.J.); (D.M.)
| | - Ioan Jung
- Department of Pathology, Clinical County Emergency Hospital, 540139 Targu Mures, Romania; (I.J.); (D.M.)
| | - Cornelia Braicu
- Research Center for Functional Genomics, Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400337 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
- Research Center for Oncopathology and Translational Medicine (CCOMT), George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology, 540139 Targu Mures, Romania
| | - Doina Milutin
- Department of Pathology, Clinical County Emergency Hospital, 540139 Targu Mures, Romania; (I.J.); (D.M.)
| | - Simona Gurzu
- Department of Pathology, George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology, 38 Gheorghe Marinescu Street, 540139 Targu Mures, Romania;
- Department of Pathology, Clinical County Emergency Hospital, 540139 Targu Mures, Romania; (I.J.); (D.M.)
- Research Center for Oncopathology and Translational Medicine (CCOMT), George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology, 540139 Targu Mures, Romania
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Zeng N, Ma L, Cheng Y, Xia Q, Li Y, Chen Y, Lu Z, Lu Q, Jiang F, Luo D. Construction of a Ferroptosis-Related Gene Signature for Predicting Survival and Immune Microenvironment in Melanoma Patients. Int J Gen Med 2021; 14:6423-6438. [PMID: 34675611 PMCID: PMC8502037 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s327348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective In this research, we studied the genes associated with ferroptosis to develop a prognostic model and find out an association with tumor immune microenvironment in skin cutaneous melanoma (SKCM) patients. Methods To find SKCM-related ferroptosis genes, we used Cox regression and LASSO approach on 60 genes related to ferroptosis and SKCM-related RNA-seq. Following that, a ferroptosis-related gene signature was created. Time-dependent ROC curve and Kaplan–Meier analysis were calculated to determine its capability of prediction. Besides, several assessments were used to evaluate overall survival (OS), accompanied by the creation of a nomogram for the clinicopathologic factors and the ferroptosis-related gene signature we established. We also investigated the relationship between ferroptosis-related gene signature with three immune checkpoints and immune cell infiltration. Results Our prognostic model included two genes (ALOX5, CHAC1). In both TCGA and GEO cohorts, OS was lower in high-risk category. Using our gene signature, we can reliably predict OS. Additionally, our gene signature can predict immune cell infiltration and SKCM immunotherapy response. Conclusion Our gene signature has shown to be a reliable predictor of OS, reflect the immune microenvironment, and predict the effectiveness of immunotherapy for SKCM patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ni Zeng
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210000, People's Republic of China.,Department of Dermatology, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, People's Republic of China
| | - Liwen Ma
- Department of Dermatology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210000, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuxin Cheng
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210000, People's Republic of China
| | - Qingyue Xia
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210000, People's Republic of China
| | - Yueyue Li
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210000, People's Republic of China
| | - Yihe Chen
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210000, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhiyu Lu
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210000, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian Lu
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210000, People's Republic of China
| | - Feng Jiang
- Department of Neonatology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Dan Luo
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210000, People's Republic of China
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Takács A, Szász Z, Kalabay M, Bárány P, Csámpai A, Hegyesi H, Láng O, Lajkó E, Kőhidai L. The Synergistic Activity of Bortezomib and TIC10 against A2058 Melanoma Cells. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14080820. [PMID: 34451917 PMCID: PMC8399995 DOI: 10.3390/ph14080820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Combination antitumor treatments are essential parts of modern tumor therapy as—compared to monotherapies—(i) they are more effective; (ii) the dose of the compounds can be reduced; and (iii) therefore the side effects are improved. Our research group previously demonstrated the antitumor character of bortezomib (BOZ) in A2058 melanoma cells. Unfortunately, dose-related side effects are common during BOZ therapy, which could be prevented by reducing the dose of BOZ. This study aimed to characterize synergistic combinations of BOZ with a TRAIL (TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand) -inducing compound (TIC10), where the doses can be cut down but the efficacy is preserved. Endpoint cell viability assays were performed on A2058 cells, and synergism of BOZ and TIC10 was observed after 72 h. Synergism was further validated in a real-time impedimetric assay, and our results showed that BOZ-treated melanoma cells survived the treatment, an effect not registered in the co-treatments. Treatment with the combinations resulted in increased apoptosis, which was not accompanied by enhanced LDH release. Nevertheless, the expression of death receptor 5 (DR5) was increased on the cell surface without transcriptional regulation. In summary, our findings support the theory that the application of BOZ and TIC10 in combination could provide higher efficacy in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angéla Takács
- Department of Genetics, Cell and Immunobiology, Semmelweis University, H-1089 Budapest, Hungary; (A.T.); (Z.S.); (M.K.); (H.H.); (O.L.); (E.L.)
| | - Zsófia Szász
- Department of Genetics, Cell and Immunobiology, Semmelweis University, H-1089 Budapest, Hungary; (A.T.); (Z.S.); (M.K.); (H.H.); (O.L.); (E.L.)
| | - Márton Kalabay
- Department of Genetics, Cell and Immunobiology, Semmelweis University, H-1089 Budapest, Hungary; (A.T.); (Z.S.); (M.K.); (H.H.); (O.L.); (E.L.)
| | - Péter Bárány
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Eötvös Loránd University, H-1117 Budapest, Hungary; (P.B.); (A.C.)
| | - Antal Csámpai
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Eötvös Loránd University, H-1117 Budapest, Hungary; (P.B.); (A.C.)
| | - Hargita Hegyesi
- Department of Genetics, Cell and Immunobiology, Semmelweis University, H-1089 Budapest, Hungary; (A.T.); (Z.S.); (M.K.); (H.H.); (O.L.); (E.L.)
| | - Orsolya Láng
- Department of Genetics, Cell and Immunobiology, Semmelweis University, H-1089 Budapest, Hungary; (A.T.); (Z.S.); (M.K.); (H.H.); (O.L.); (E.L.)
| | - Eszter Lajkó
- Department of Genetics, Cell and Immunobiology, Semmelweis University, H-1089 Budapest, Hungary; (A.T.); (Z.S.); (M.K.); (H.H.); (O.L.); (E.L.)
| | - László Kőhidai
- Department of Genetics, Cell and Immunobiology, Semmelweis University, H-1089 Budapest, Hungary; (A.T.); (Z.S.); (M.K.); (H.H.); (O.L.); (E.L.)
- Correspondence:
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Epigenetic Regulation in Melanoma: Facts and Hopes. Cells 2021; 10:cells10082048. [PMID: 34440824 PMCID: PMC8392422 DOI: 10.3390/cells10082048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2021] [Revised: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous melanoma is a lethal disease, even when diagnosed in advanced stages. Although recent progress in biology and treatment has dramatically improved survival rates, new therapeutic approaches are still needed. Deregulation of epigenetics, which mainly controls DNA methylation status and chromatin remodeling, is implied not only in cancer initiation and progression, but also in resistance to antitumor drugs. Epigenetics in melanoma has been studied recently in both melanoma preclinical models and patient samples, highlighting its potential role in different phases of melanomagenesis, as well as in resistance to approved drugs such as immune checkpoint inhibitors and MAPK inhibitors. This review summarizes what is currently known about epigenetics in melanoma and dwells on the recognized and potential new targets for testing epigenetic drugs, alone or together with other agents, in advanced melanoma patients.
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Rydberg A, Lehman J, Markovic S, Anderson K. Mastocytosis and melanoma: a case series. Int J Dermatol 2021; 61:603-606. [PMID: 34350975 DOI: 10.1111/ijd.15791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 05/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ann Rydberg
- Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, Scottsdale, AZ, USA
| | - Julia Lehman
- Department of Dermatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.,Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Svetomir Markovic
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.,Department of Immunology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.,Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Katelyn Anderson
- Department of Dermatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
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50
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Ledoux J, Trouvé A, Tchertanov L. Folding and Intrinsic Disorder of the Receptor Tyrosine Kinase KIT Insert Domain Seen by Conventional Molecular Dynamics Simulations. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22147375. [PMID: 34298994 PMCID: PMC8307779 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The kinase insert domain (KID) of RTK KIT is the key recruitment region for downstream signalling proteins. KID, studied by molecular dynamics simulations as a cleaved polypeptide and as a native domain fused to KIT, showed intrinsic disorder represented by a set of heterogeneous conformations. The accurate atomistic models showed that the helical fold of KID is mainly sequence dependent. However, the reduced fold of the native KID suggests that its folding is allosterically controlled by the kinase domain. The tertiary structure of KID represents a compact array of highly variable α- and 310-helices linked by flexible loops playing a principal role in the conformational diversity. The helically folded KID retains a collapsed globule-like shape due to non-covalent interactions associated in a ternary hydrophobic core. The free energy landscapes constructed from first principles-the size, the measure of the average distance between the conformations, the amount of helices and the solvent-accessible surface area-describe the KID disorder through a collection of minima (wells), providing a direct evaluation of conformational ensembles. We found that the cleaved KID simulated with restricted N- and C-ends better reproduces the native KID than the isolated polypeptide. We suggest that a cyclic, generic KID would be best suited for future studies of KID f post-transduction effects.
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