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Li H, Liu Z, Li F, Shi F, Xia Y, Zhou Q, Zeng Q. Preoperatively Predicting Ki67 Expression in Pituitary Adenomas Using Deep Segmentation Network and Radiomics Analysis Based on Multiparameter MRI. Acad Radiol 2024; 31:617-627. [PMID: 37330356 DOI: 10.1016/j.acra.2023.05.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES Ki67 proliferation index is associated with more aggressive tumor behavior and recurrence of pituitary adenomas (PAs). Recently, radiomics and deep learning have been introduced into the study of pituitary tumors. The present study aimed to investigate the feasibility of predicting the Ki67 proliferation index of PAs using the deep segmentation network and radiomics analysis based on multiparameter MRI. MATERIALS AND METHODS First, the cfVB-Net autosegmentation model was trained; subsequently, its performance was evaluated in terms of the dice similarity coefficient (DSC). In the present study, 1214 patients were classified into the high Ki67 expression group (HG) and the low Ki67 expression group (LG). Analyses of three classification models based on radiomics features were performed to distinguish HG from LG. Clinical factors, imaging features, and Radscores were collectively used to create a nomogram in order to effectively predict Ki67 expression. RESULTS The cfVB-Net segmentation model demonstrated good performance (DSC: 0.723-0.930). Overall, 18, 15, and 11 optimal features in contrast-enhanced (CE) T1WI, T1WI, and T2WI were obtained for differentiating between HG and LG, respectively. Notably, the best results were presented in the bagging decision tree when CE T1WI and T1WI were combined (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve: training set, 0.927; validation set, 0.831; and independent testing set, 0.825). In the nomogram, age, Hardy' grade, and Radscores were identified as risk predictors of high Ki67 expression. CONCLUSION The deep segmentation network and radiomics analysis based on multiparameter MRI exhibited good performance and clinical application value in predicting the expression of Ki67 in PAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongxia Li
- Department of Radiology, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan 250033, China (H.L.)
| | - Zhiling Liu
- Department of Radiology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan 250098, China (Z.L.)
| | - Fuyan Li
- Department of Radiology, Shandong Medical Imaging Research Institute, Jinan 250021, China (F.L.)
| | - Feng Shi
- Shanghai United Imaging Intelligence, Co., Ltd., 701 Yunjin Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai 200030, China (F.S., Y.X., Q.Z.)
| | - Yuwei Xia
- Shanghai United Imaging Intelligence, Co., Ltd., 701 Yunjin Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai 200030, China (F.S., Y.X., Q.Z.)
| | - Qing Zhou
- Shanghai United Imaging Intelligence, Co., Ltd., 701 Yunjin Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai 200030, China (F.S., Y.X., Q.Z.)
| | - Qingshi Zeng
- Department of Radiology, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, No.16766 Jingshi Road, Jinan 250013, China (Q.Z.).
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Stereotactic radiosurgery with or without surgical resection for pituitary adenoma: Insights from the National Cancer Database. INTERDISCIPLINARY NEUROSURGERY 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.inat.2022.101653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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3
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Shah S, Manzoor S, Rothman Y, Hagen M, Pater L, Golnik K, Mahammedi A, Lin AL, Bhabhra R, Forbes JA, Sengupta S. Complete Response of a Patient With a Mismatch Repair Deficient Aggressive Pituitary Adenoma to Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Therapy: A Case Report. Neurosurgery 2022; 91:e51-e56. [PMID: 35544035 PMCID: PMC9514746 DOI: 10.1227/neu.0000000000002024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND IMPORTANCE Aggressive pituitary adenomas (APAs) are pituitary tumors that are refractory to standard treatments and carry a poor prognosis. Current treatment guidelines are not standardized but combine surgical resection, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Temozolomide is the only chemotherapeutic agent with documented effectiveness and is recommended for APA in European Society of Endocrinology clinical guidelines. CLINICAL PRESENTATION A 57-year-old man presented with visual deterioration and bitemporal hemianopsia. MRI of the brain demonstrated a sellar mass suspected to be pituitary macroadenoma with displacement of the stalk and optic nerve impingement. The patient underwent stereotactic endoscopic transsphenoidal resection of the mass. Postoperative MRI demonstrated gross total resection. Pathology revealed a sparsely granulated corticotroph adenoma with malignant transformation. Immunohistochemistry showed loss of expression of MLH1 and PMS2 in the tumor cells. Proton therapy was recommended given an elevated Ki67 index and p53 positivity. Before radiotherapy, there was no radiographic evidence of residual tumor. Temozolomide therapy was initiated after surveillance MRI showed recurrence at 16 months postoperatively. However, MRI demonstrated marked progression after 3 cycles. Next-generation sequencing using the MSK-IMPACT platform identified somatic mutations in MLH1 Y548lfs*9 and TP53 R337C . Immunotherapy with ipilimumab/nivolumab was initiated, and MRI demonstrated no residual tumor burden 34 months postoperatively. CONCLUSION APA is a tumor with frequent recurrence and a short median expected length of survival. Here, we demonstrate the utility of immunotherapy in a single case report of APA, with complete resolution of recurrent APA and improved survival compared with life expectancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjit Shah
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Saima Manzoor
- Department of Endocrinology, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
- Current affiliation: Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Yehudit Rothman
- Department of Oncology, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Matthew Hagen
- Department of Pathology, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Luke Pater
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Karl Golnik
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Abdelkader Mahammedi
- Department of Radiology, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Andrew L. Lin
- Departments of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Multidisciplinary Pituitary and Skull Base Tumor Center, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Ruchi Bhabhra
- Department of Endocrinology, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
- Current affiliation: University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Jonathan A. Forbes
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Soma Sengupta
- Department of Neurology, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
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4
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Wang X, Li M, Jiang X, Wang F, Ling S, Niu C. Prediction of Higher Ki-67 Index in Pituitary Adenomas by Pre- and Intra-Operative Clinical Characteristics. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12081002. [PMID: 36009065 PMCID: PMC9405805 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12081002] [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: 05/29/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: The Ki-67 index is an indicator of the active proliferation and aggressive behavior of pituitary adenomas (PAs). Appropriate pre- and intra-operatives of the Ki-67 index can help surgeons develop better and more personalized treatment strategies for patients with PAs. This study aimed to investigate the influence factors for predicting the Ki-67 index in PAs. Methods: Data of 178 patients with PAs confirmed by pathology were retrospectively analyzed. According to the Ki-67 index, the patients were divided into the Ki-67 < 3% and Ki-67 ≥ 3% cohorts. Patient data, including age, sex, postoperative immunohistochemical pituitary hormone positive index, Knosp grade, tumor breaking through the sellar floor, rich blood supply to the tumor, tumor located inside the sella, erosion of the dorsum sellae bone, and pituitary-specific transcription factor, were collected. A univariate logistic analysis was used to evaluate the influence factors for a high Ki-67 index. Multiple regression and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve were used to analyze the factors with p < 0.05. The mutant status of Ki-67 index was predicted by nomogram. Results: Multivariate regression analysis showed that rich blood supply to the tumor and erosion of the dorsum sellae bone were independent risk factors for the Ki-67 proliferation index. The ROC curves demonstrated that age, rich blood supply to the tumor, and erosion of the dorsum sellae bone can predict the occurrence of a high Ki-67 index. Together, the three risk factors provide a stronger ability to predict the Ki-67 index. The nomogram was developed and validated. Conclusion: Age, rich blood supply to the tumor, and erosion of the dorsum sellae bone are influencing factors for predicting the Ki-67 index. Suitable nomogram prediction models were developed and validated, and there is potential for personalized treatment for PA patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuanzhi Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230001, China; (X.W.); (M.L.); (X.J.); (F.W.); (S.L.)
| | - Mingwu Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230001, China; (X.W.); (M.L.); (X.J.); (F.W.); (S.L.)
| | - Xiaofeng Jiang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230001, China; (X.W.); (M.L.); (X.J.); (F.W.); (S.L.)
| | - Fei Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230001, China; (X.W.); (M.L.); (X.J.); (F.W.); (S.L.)
| | - Shiying Ling
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230001, China; (X.W.); (M.L.); (X.J.); (F.W.); (S.L.)
| | - Chaoshi Niu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230001, China; (X.W.); (M.L.); (X.J.); (F.W.); (S.L.)
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Brain Disease, Hefei 230001, China
- Anhui Provincial Clinical Research Center for Neurosurgical Disease, Hefei 230001, China
- Correspondence:
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5
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Liu X, Dai C, Bao X, Deng K, Yao Y, Feng M, Li M, Chen G, Wang R. The Clinical and Pathological Characteristics of Refractory Pituitary Adenomas: A Single Center Experience. Front Oncol 2022; 12:846614. [PMID: 35372086 PMCID: PMC8966407 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.846614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Most of pituitary adenomas (PAs) are slow-growing benign tumors which can be cured or controlled by conventional therapies, including surgery, medical treatment or radiotherapy. A small set of PAs, usually known as aggressive PAs or refractory PAs, present with more aggressive behavior and lead to poorer prognosis than classical PAs. Methods We retrospectively analyzed the clinical and pathological characteristics of 44 patients who were diagnosed with refractory PAs by a multidisciplinary team (MDT). All the patients’ demographic characteristics, radiological findings, Knosp grade, treatment details and clinical outcomes were abstracted from the medical records. Additionally, 44 patients with nonrefractory PAs (NRPAs) matched for age and gender were selected to serve as the control group. Results Despite using all combined treatments including surgery, radiotherapy and conventional medical treatments, all the refractory PAs showed tumor progression or hormone hypersecretion which caused increased morbidity and mortality and remained challenging to management. Compared with those of the non-refractory PAs, the tumor size, invasive rate and tumor growth rate (TGR) were significantly higher in the refractory PAs. TGR >2.2% per month may be considered as a preoperative indicator of refractoriness. The Ki-67 index in the refractory PAs were all ≥3%. EGFR, but not MMP2 or MMP9, was significantly overexpressed in refractory PAs compared with the corresponding levels in nonrefractory PAs. Conclusion Refractory PAs are unresponsive to surgery, radiotherapy and conventional medical treatments with a poor prognosis. Moreover, a TGR ≥2.2% per month, Ki-67 index ≥3% and EGFR overexpression may be independent predictors of clinical refractoriness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohai Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Chinese Pituitary Specialists Congress, Beijing, China
| | - Congxin Dai
- Chinese Pituitary Specialists Congress, Beijing, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Tongren Hospital Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xinjie Bao
- Chinese Pituitary Specialists Congress, Beijing, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Kan Deng
- Chinese Pituitary Specialists Congress, Beijing, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yong Yao
- Chinese Pituitary Specialists Congress, Beijing, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Ming Feng
- Chinese Pituitary Specialists Congress, Beijing, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Mingchu Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Chinese Pituitary Specialists Congress, Beijing, China
| | - Ge Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Chinese Pituitary Specialists Congress, Beijing, China
| | - Renzhi Wang
- Chinese Pituitary Specialists Congress, Beijing, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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6
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Dai C, Sun B, Wang R, Kang J. The Application of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Pituitary Adenomas. Front Oncol 2022; 11:784819. [PMID: 35004306 PMCID: PMC8733587 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.784819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Pituitary adenomas (PAs) are a group of tumors with complex and heterogeneous clinical manifestations. Early accurate diagnosis, individualized management, and precise prediction of the treatment response and prognosis of patients with PA are urgently needed. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) have garnered increasing attention to quantitatively analyze complex medical data to improve individualized care for patients with PAs. Therefore, we critically examined the current use of AI and ML in the management of patients with PAs, and we propose improvements for future uses of AI and ML in patients with PAs. AI and ML can automatically extract many quantitative features based on massive medical data; moreover, related diagnosis and prediction models can be developed through quantitative analysis. Previous studies have suggested that AI and ML have wide applications in early accurate diagnosis; individualized treatment; predicting the response to treatments, including surgery, medications, and radiotherapy; and predicting the outcomes of patients with PAs. In addition, facial imaging-based AI and ML, pathological picture-based AI and ML, and surgical microscopic video-based AI and ML have also been reported to be useful in assisting the management of patients with PAs. In conclusion, the current use of AI and ML models has the potential to assist doctors and patients in making crucial surgical decisions by providing an accurate diagnosis, response to treatment, and prognosis of PAs. These AI and ML models can improve the quality and safety of medical services for patients with PAs and reduce the complication rates of neurosurgery. Further work is needed to obtain more reliable algorithms with high accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity for the management of PA patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Congxin Dai
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Bowen Sun
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Renzhi Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Kang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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7
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Yan JL, Chen MY, Chen YL, Chuang CC, Hsu PW, Wei KC, Chang CN. Surgical Outcome and Evaluation of Strategies in the Management of Growth Hormone-Secreting Pituitary Adenomas After Initial Transsphenoidal Pituitary Adenectomy Failure. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:756855. [PMID: 35498411 PMCID: PMC9048041 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.756855] [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: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Acromegaly is a systemic disease that requires multidisciplinary treatment to achieve the best clinical outcome. This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of the endoscopic transsphenoidal approach (TSA) as the primary treatment for somatotroph adenomas and further investigate patients who had suboptimal surgical results. This retrospective study included 83 patients with somatotroph adenomas treated by TSA at our institution from 1999 to 2010. Biochemical remission was defined as hGH <1 and <2.5 ng/ml. Factors associated with failure of TSA and strategy of secondary treatments for refractory and recurrent disease were analyzed. The mean age of patients was 41.1 ± 11.3 years, and the mean follow-up time was 54.2 ± 44.3 months. Approximately 44.5% of patients had residual tumors after TSA. Larger tumor size, higher GH level before the operation, and the existence of residual tumors were associated with TSA failure. Forty-one patients had an inadequate response to TSA or a recurrent lesion, and of these patients, 37 had residual tumor after TSA. Octreotide results in good outcomes in the treatment of DGSA patients, and SRS/EXRT generates good results in treating patients who receive second treatments when remission cannot be reached 6 months after TSA operation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiun-Lin Yan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Keelung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital of the Chang Gung Medical Foundation, Keelung, Taiwan
- Chang Gung University, College of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- *Correspondence: Jiun-Lin Yan, ; Chen-Nen Chang,
| | - Mao-Yu Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Keelung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital of the Chang Gung Medical Foundation, Keelung, Taiwan
| | - Yao-Liang Chen
- Department of Radiology, Keelung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital of the Chang Gung Medical Foundation, Keelung, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Cheng Chuang
- Chang Gung University, College of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital Linkou Main Branch, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Peng-Wei Hsu
- Chang Gung University, College of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital Linkou Main Branch, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Chen Wei
- Chang Gung University, College of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- Department of Radiology, Keelung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital of the Chang Gung Medical Foundation, Keelung, Taiwan
| | - Chen-Nen Chang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Keelung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital of the Chang Gung Medical Foundation, Keelung, Taiwan
- Chang Gung University, College of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiamen Chang Gung Hospital, Xiamen, Taiwan
- *Correspondence: Jiun-Lin Yan, ; Chen-Nen Chang,
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8
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Valea A, Sandru F, Petca A, Dumitrascu MC, Carsote M, Petca RC, Ghemigian A. Aggressive prolactinoma (Review). Exp Ther Med 2021; 23:74. [PMID: 34934445 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.10997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Aggressive prolactinoma (APRL) is a subgroup of aggressive pituitary tumors (accounting for 10% of all hypophyseal neoplasia) which are defined by: invasion based on radiological and/or histological features, a higher proliferation profile when compared to typical adenomas and rapidly developing resistance to standard medication/protocols in addition to an increased risk of early recurrence. This is a narrative review focusing on APRL in terms of both presentation and management. Upon admission, the suggestive features may include increased serum prolactin with a large tumor diameter (mainly >4 cm), male sex, early age at diagnosis (<20 years), and genetic predisposition [multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1), aryl hydrocarbon receptor interacting protein (AIP), succinate dehydrogenase (SDHx) gene mutations]. Potential prognostic factors are indicated by assessment of E-cadherin, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) status. Furthermore, during management, APRL may be associated with dopamine agonist (DA) resistance (described in 10-20% of all prolactinomas), post-hypophysectomy relapse, mitotic count >2, Ki-67 proliferation index ≥3%, the need for radiotherapy, lack of response in terms of controlling prolactin levels and tumor growth despite multimodal therapy. However, none of these as an isolated element serves as a surrogate of APRL diagnosis. A fourth-line therapy is necessary with temozolomide, an oral alkylating chemotherapeutic agent, that may induce tumor reduction and serum prolactin reduction in 75% of cases but only 8% have a normalization of prolactin levels. Controversies surrounding the duration of therapy still exist; also regarding the fifth-line therapy, post-temozolomide intervention. Recent data suggest alternatives such as somatostatin analogues (pasireotide), checkpoint inhibitors (ipilimumab, nivolumab), tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) (lapatinib), and mTOR inhibitors (everolimus). APRL represents a complex condition that is still challenging, and multimodal therapy is essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Valea
- Department of Endocrinology, 'I. Hatieganu' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania.,Department of Endocrinology, Clinical County Hospital, 400000 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Florica Sandru
- Department of Dermatology, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Dermatology, 'Elias' University Emergency Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Aida Petca
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 'Elias' University Emergency Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mihai Cristian Dumitrascu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Emergency Hospital, 050098 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mara Carsote
- Department of Endocrinology, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Endocrinology, 'C. I. Parhon' National Institute of Endocrinology, 011863 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Razvan-Cosmin Petca
- Department of Urology, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Urology, 'Prof. Dr. Theodor Burgele' Clinical Hospital, 061344 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Adina Ghemigian
- Department of Endocrinology, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Endocrinology, 'C. I. Parhon' National Institute of Endocrinology, 011863 Bucharest, Romania
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9
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Dai C, Liang S, Sun B, Li Y, Kang J. Anti-VEGF Therapy in Refractory Pituitary Adenomas and Pituitary Carcinomas: A Review. Front Oncol 2021; 11:773905. [PMID: 34869016 PMCID: PMC8635636 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.773905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Most pituitary tumors are considered benign adenomas, and only 0.1%–0.2% of them present metastasis and are defined as pituitary carcinomas (PCs). Refractory pituitary adenomas (PAs) lie between benign adenomas and true malignant PCs and are defined as aggressive-invasive PAs, characterized by a high Ki-67 index, rapid growth, frequent recurrence, and resistance to conventional treatments. Refractory PAs and PCs are notoriously difficult to manage because of limited therapeutic options. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) plays a crucial role in angiogenesis not only during development but also during pathological processes in pituitary tumors. Recently, increasing numbers of preclinical studies and clinical research have demonstrated that anti-VEGF therapy plays an important role in pituitary tumors. The purpose of this review is to report the role of VEGF in the development and pathology of pituitary tumors and the progress of anti-VEGF therapy in pituitary tumors, including refractory PAs and PCs. Previous preclinical studies indicated that cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (CDK5)-mediated VEGF expression might play a crucial role in the development of PAs. Vascular endothelial growth inhibitors have been reported as independent predictors of invasion in human PAs and have been indicated as markers for poor outcome. Furthermore, several studies have reported that angiogenesis decreases tumor sizes in experimental animal models of pituitary tumors. The expression of VEGF is relatively high in PAs; therefore, anti-VEGF therapy has been used in some refractory PAs and PCs. To date, anti-VEGF has been reported as monotherapy, in combination with temozolomide (TMZ), TMZ and radiotherapy, and with pasireotide, which might be a promising alternative therapy for refractory PAs and PCs resistant to conventional treatments. However, the role of anti-VEGF therapy in pituitary tumors is still controversial due to a lack of large-scale clinical trials. In summary, the results from preclinical studies and clinical trials indicated that anti-VEGF therapy monotherapy or in combination with other treatments may be a promising alternative therapy for refractory PAs and PCs resistant to conventional treatments. More preclinical studies and clinical trials are needed to further evaluate the exact efficacy of anti-VEGF in refractory PAs and PCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Congxin Dai
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Siyu Liang
- Eight-Year Program of Clinical Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH), Chinese Academe of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College (CAMS & PUMC), Beijing, China
| | - Bowen Sun
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yong Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Kang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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10
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Li P, Zhang D, Ma S, Kang P, Zhang C, Mao B, Zhou W, Wang X, Peng J, Yuan L, Wang Y, Diao J, Jia W. Consistency of pituitary adenomas: Amounts of collagen types I and III and the predictive value of T2WI MRI. Exp Ther Med 2021; 22:1255. [PMID: 34603523 PMCID: PMC8453341 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.10690] [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: 05/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Pituitary adenomas, the most common type of lesion in the sellar region, rank third among all brain tumors, with an incidence of 73-94 cases per 100,000 individuals. Due to its high resolution, MRI is highly efficient in brain imaging and has emerged as the most appropriate method for tumor consistency evaluation. The present study aimed to assess the levels of collagen types I and III in pituitary adenomas with different consistencies and to determine the value of T2-weighted imaging (T2WI) MRI for predicting tumor consistency. A total of 55 patients with pituitary adenomas were divided into the soft and firm tumor groups according to intraoperative tumor consistency. The ratio of the tumor to Pons' signal intensities on T2WI scans was determined. A receiver operating characteristic curve was plotted to assess the specificity and sensitivity of T2WI in predicting tumor consistency. Average optical density (AOD) values for collagen types I (0.046±0.008 vs. 0.052±0.012, P=0.033) and III (0.044±0.008 vs. 0.050±0.010, P=0.016) were significantly lower in the soft tumor group compared with those in the firm tumor group. There was no significant difference in the ratio of the tumor to Pons' signal intensities on T2WI scans. The area under the ROC curve was 0.595±0.078 (P=0.250). The maximum tumor diameter significantly differed between the soft and firm tumor groups (P=0.001). AOD values for collagen types I and III were significantly correlated with the maximum tumor diameter (P<0.001). The amounts of collagen types I and III were elevated in firm pituitary tumors compared with the soft ones. The ratio of tumor to Pons' signal intensities on T2WI scans was not able to accurately predict tumor consistency. The size of pituitary adenomas may be associated with the expression levels of collagen types I and III.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peiliang Li
- Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, P.R. China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, P.R. China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100015, P.R. China
| | - Dainan Zhang
- Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, P.R. China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, P.R. China
| | - Shunchang Ma
- Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, P.R. China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, P.R. China
| | - Peng Kang
- Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, P.R. China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, P.R. China
| | - Chuanbao Zhang
- Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, P.R. China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, P.R. China
| | - Beibei Mao
- Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, P.R. China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, P.R. China
| | - Wenjianlong Zhou
- Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, P.R. China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, P.R. China
| | - Xi Wang
- Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, P.R. China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, P.R. China
| | - Jiayi Peng
- Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, P.R. China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, P.R. China
| | - Linhao Yuan
- Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, P.R. China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, P.R. China
| | - Yangyang Wang
- Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, P.R. China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, P.R. China
| | - Jinfu Diao
- Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, P.R. China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, P.R. China
| | - Wang Jia
- Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, P.R. China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, P.R. China
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11
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Turchini J, Sioson L, Clarkson A, Sheen A, Gill AJ. PD-L1 Is Preferentially Expressed in PIT-1 Positive Pituitary Neuroendocrine Tumours. Endocr Pathol 2021; 32:408-414. [PMID: 33694064 DOI: 10.1007/s12022-021-09673-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Pituitary neuroendocrine tumours (PitNETs) cause lifelong morbidity, some requiring extensive surgical intervention, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy. A small percentage still cause debilitating disease, resistant to standard treatments, and may benefit from novel therapies. We assessed PD-L1 expression in a large cohort of PitNETs to investigate whether immunotherapy could represent a rational therapeutic choice. Unselected PitNETs undergoing surgical resection were reclassified according to the WHO 2017 system and underwent PD-L1 immunohistochemistry (clone SP263) in tissue microarray format. Membranous expression was scored as 0 (no expression), 1+ (< 50% expression) and 2+ (> 50% expression). A total of 265 PitNETs underwent PD-L1 immunohistochemistry. Prominent non-specific cytoplasmic staining was noted making assessment of true membrane expression difficult. Allowing for this, 40 of 264 (15%) PitNETs demonstrated strong staining (> 50% of neoplastic cells positive). These included 5/10 (50%) somatotrophs, 7/17 (41%) lactotrophs, 2/5 (40%) mammosomatotrophs, 4/8 (50%) mixed somatotroph-lactotrophs, 3/5 (60%) PIT-1 positive plurihormonal tumours with TSH expression, 10/28 (36%) of PIT-1 positive plurihormonal tumours, and 4/10 (40%) of PIT-1 positive tumours with no hormonal expression. Only 2/32 (6%) transcription factor triple negative, hormone negative tumours, 5/113 (4%) of gonadotrophs, and 0/6 thyrotrophs or 0/30 corticotrophs showed significant staining. We conclude that PD-L1 expression is common in somatotrophs, lactotrophs, and PIT-1 positive plurihormonal PitNETs but rare in transcription factor negative, hormone negative PitNETs, gonadotrophs, and corticotrophs. If the therapeutic role of immunotherapy is to be explored in PitNETs, it may be that it is of most benefit in the PD-L1 high subgroup.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Turchini
- Anatomical Pathology, Douglass Hanly Moir Pathology, 14 Giffnock Avenue, Macquarie Park, NSW, 2113, Australia.
- Discipline of Pathology, MQ Health, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, NSW, 2113, Australia.
- Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, 2006, Australia.
- Cancer Diagnosis and Pathology Group, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, St Leonards, NSW, 2065, Australia.
| | - Loretta Sioson
- Cancer Diagnosis and Pathology Group, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, St Leonards, NSW, 2065, Australia
| | - Adele Clarkson
- Cancer Diagnosis and Pathology Group, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, St Leonards, NSW, 2065, Australia
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, Royal North Shore Hospital, NSW Health Pathology, St Leonards, NSW, 2065, Australia
| | - Amy Sheen
- Cancer Diagnosis and Pathology Group, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, St Leonards, NSW, 2065, Australia
| | - Anthony J Gill
- Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, 2006, Australia
- Cancer Diagnosis and Pathology Group, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, St Leonards, NSW, 2065, Australia
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, Royal North Shore Hospital, NSW Health Pathology, St Leonards, NSW, 2065, Australia
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12
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Molecular, functional, and histopathological classification of the pituitary neuroendocrine neoplasms. Brain Tumor Pathol 2021; 38:183-188. [PMID: 34269950 DOI: 10.1007/s10014-021-00410-5] [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: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
In 2017, WHO published an updated classification of the pituitary adenomas according to the lineages defined by the transcription factors, PIT1, SF1 and TPIT. Nomenclature of the pituitary tumors follows the mature cell types such as somatotroph (GH), lactotroph (LH), thyrotroph, corticotroph, and gonadotroph (FSH, LH). Null cell adenomas are defined by the absence of expression of any hormones and transcription factors. Not infrequently, the pituitary adenomas are invasive to the adjacent structures and are designated as aggressive adenomas. Knosp grading is often used to define the aggressiveness of the tumor. Sparsely granulated somatotroph adenomas and Crooke cell corticotroph adenomas are representative aggressive adenomas. Recently, genomics regarding various adenomas have been clarified, such as GNAS for somatotrophs and USP8 for corticotrophs. Familial pituitary adenomas are another aspect which has been clarified such as MEN1, Carney's complex, familial isolated pituitary adenoma and McCune-Albright syndrome. The pituitary adenomas often produce GH or PRL, hormones of PIT1 transcription factor. It has been agreed that the pituitary adenomas share the characteristics of neuroendocrine neoplasms. The terminology of pituitary neuroendocrine tumor has been discussed. This review article covers various aspects of pituitary adenomas.
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13
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Sari R, Altinoz MA, Ozlu EBK, Sav A, Danyeli AE, Baskan O, Er O, Elmaci I. Treatment Strategies for Dopamine Agonist-Resistant and Aggressive Prolactinomas: A Comprehensive Analysis of the Literature. Horm Metab Res 2021; 53:413-424. [PMID: 34282593 DOI: 10.1055/a-1525-2131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Despite most of the prolactinomas can be treated with endocrine therapy and/or surgery, a significant percentage of these tumors can be resistant to endocrine treatments and/or recur with prominent invasion into the surrounding anatomical structures. Hence, clinical, pathological, and molecular definitions of aggressive prolactinomas are important to guide for classical and novel treatment modalities. In this review, we aimed to define molecular endocrinological features of dopamine agonist-resistant and aggressive prolactinomas for designing future multimodality treatments. Besides surgery, temozolomide chemotherapy and radiotherapy, peptide receptor radionuclide therapy, estrogen pathway modulators, progesterone antagonists or agonists, mTOR/akt inhibitors, pasireotide, gefitinib/lapatinib, everolimus, and metformin are tested in preclinical models, anecdotal cases, and in small case series. Moreover, chorionic gonadotropin, gonadotropin releasing hormone, TGFβ and PRDM2 may seem like possible future targets for managing aggressive prolactinomas. Lastly, we discussed our management of a unique prolactinoma case by asking which tumors' proliferative index (Ki67) increased from 5-6% to 26% in two subsequent surgeries performed in a 2-year period, exerted massive invasive growth, and secreted huge levels of prolactin leading up to levels of 1 605 671 ng/dl in blood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramazan Sari
- Department of Neurosurgery, Acibadem Hospital, Maslak, Istanbul, Turkey
- Avrasya University, Health Sciences Faculty, Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Meric A Altinoz
- Department of Biochemistry, Acibadem University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Aydin Sav
- Department of Pathology, Yeditepe University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ayca Ersen Danyeli
- Department of Pathology, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ozdil Baskan
- Department of Radiology, Memorial Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ozlem Er
- Department of Medical Oncology, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ilhan Elmaci
- Department of Neurosurgery, Acibadem Hospital, Maslak, Istanbul, Turkey
- Department of Neurosurgery, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
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14
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Pichler R, Kalev O, Tomancok B, Sonnberger M, Ehrlich D, Hodolic M. Somatostatin Receptor Subtype Expression in Patients with Acromegaly and Complicated Clinical Course. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11061050. [PMID: 34200337 PMCID: PMC8228866 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11061050] [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: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Somatostatin analogues are considered to be the first line of treatment in acromegaly. Somatostatin analogues of the first generation mainly target the somatostatin receptor (SSTR) subtype 2 and have been proven efficient in the majority of patients with acromegaly. Pasireotide was the first somatostatin analogue also substantially targeting the SSTR subtype 5. An efficient drug for Cushing’s disease tailored to suboptimal-responding patients with acromegaly then became available. We immunohistochemically investigated SSTR subtypes expression in pituitary adenomas from operated acromegaly patients with clinical relapse and a complicated clinical course. Patients received pasireotide in the course of their disease. The predictive value of SSTR subtypes immunhistochemical analysis for the therapeutic response is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Pichler
- Institute of Nuclear Medicine, Neuromed Campus, Kepler University Hospital, 4021 Linz, Austria;
| | - Ognian Kalev
- Institute of Pathology and Neuropathology, Neuromed Campus, Kepler University Hospital, 4021 Linz, Austria;
| | - Berndt Tomancok
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neuromed Campus, Kepler University Hospital, 4021 Linz, Austria;
| | - Michael Sonnberger
- Institute of Neuroradiology, Neuromed Campus, Kepler University Hospital, 4021 Linz, Austria;
| | - Daniela Ehrlich
- Department of Neurology, Neuromed Campus, Kepler University Hospital, 4021 Linz, Austria;
| | - Marina Hodolic
- Nuclear Medicine Research Department, IASON, A-8054 Graz, Austria
- Nuclear Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacký University Olomouc, 77900 Olomouc, Czech Republic
- Correspondence:
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15
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Cai X, Zhu J, Yang J, Tang C, Yuan F, Cong Z, Ma C. A Nomogram for Preoperatively Predicting the Ki-67 Index of a Pituitary Tumor: A Retrospective Cohort Study. Front Oncol 2021; 11:687333. [PMID: 34136412 PMCID: PMC8200848 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.687333] [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: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The Ki-67 index is an indicator of proliferation and aggressive behavior in pituitary adenomas (PAs). This study aims to develop and validate a predictive nomogram for forecasting Ki-67 index levels preoperatively in PAs. Methods A total of 439 patients with PAs underwent PA resection at the Department of Neurosurgery in Jinling Hospital between January 2018 and October 2020; they were enrolled in this retrospective study and were classified randomly into a training cohort (n = 300) and a validation cohort (n = 139). A range of clinical, radiological, and laboratory characteristics were collected. The Ki-67 index was classified into the low Ki-67 index (<3%) and the high Ki-67 index (≥3%). Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator algorithm and uni- and multivariate logistic regression analyses were applied to identify independent risk factors associated with Ki-67. A nomogram was constructed to visualize these risk factors. The receiver operation characteristic curve and calibration curve were computed to evaluate the predictive performance of the nomogram model. Results Age, primary-recurrence subtype, maximum dimension, and prolactin were included in the nomogram model. The areas under the curve (AUCs) of the nomogram model were 0.694 in the training cohort and 0.658 in the validation cohort. A well-fitted calibration curve was also generated for the nomogram model. A subgroup analysis revealed stable predictive performance for the nomogram model. A correlation analysis revealed that age (R = −0.23; p < 0.01), maximum dimension (R = 0.17; p < 0.01), and prolactin (R = 0.16; p < 0.01) were all significantly correlated with the Ki-67 index level. Conclusions Age, primary-recurrence subtype, maximum dimension, and prolactin are independent predictors for the Ki-67 index level. The current study provides a novel and feasible nomogram, which can further assist neurosurgeons to develop better, more individualized treatment strategies for patients with PAs by predicting the Ki-67 index level preoperatively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangming Cai
- School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Junhao Zhu
- School of Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jin Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Chao Tang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Feng Yuan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing, China.,School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zixiang Cong
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing, China.,School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chiyuan Ma
- School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China.,School of Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing, China.,School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.,School of Nanjing Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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16
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Krokker L, Szabó B, Németh K, Tóháti R, Sarkadi B, Mészáros K, Patócs A, Butz H. Three Dimensional Cell Culturing for Modeling Adrenal and Pituitary Tumors. Pathol Oncol Res 2021; 27:640676. [PMID: 34257605 PMCID: PMC8262162 DOI: 10.3389/pore.2021.640676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
In vitro monolayer conditions are not able to reproduce the complexity of solid tumors, still, there is scarce information about the 3D cell culture models of endocrine tumor types. Therefore, our aim was to develop in vitro 3D tumor models by different methodologies for adrenocortical carcinoma (H295R), pituitary neuroendocrine tumor (RC-4B/C and GH3) and pheochromocytoma (PC-12). Various methodologies were tested. Cell biological assays (cell viability, proliferation and live cell ratio) and steroid hormone production by HPLC-MS/MS method were applied to monitor cellular well-being. Cells in hanging drops and embedded in matrigel formed multicellular aggregates but they were difficult to handle and propagate for further experiments. The most widely used methods: ultra-low attachment plate (ULA) and spheroid inducing media (SFDM) were not the most viable 3D model of RC-4B/C and GH3 cells that would be suitable for further experiments. Combining spheroid generation with matrigel scaffold H295R 3D models were viable for 7 days, RC-4B/C and GH3 3D models for 7–10 days. ULA and SFDM 3D models of PC-12 cells could be used for further experiments up to 4 days. Higher steroid production in 3D models compared to conventional monolayer culture was detected. Endocrine tumor cells require extracellular matrix as scaffold for viable 3D models that can be one reason behind the lack of the usage of endocrine 3D cultures. Our models help understanding the pathogenesis of endocrine tumors and revealing potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets. They could also serve as an excellent platform for preclinical drug test screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilla Krokker
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.,Hereditary Tumours Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences and Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Borbála Szabó
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.,Hereditary Tumours Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences and Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Kinga Németh
- Hereditary Tumours Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences and Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Rebeka Tóháti
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Balázs Sarkadi
- Hereditary Tumours Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences and Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Katalin Mészáros
- Hereditary Tumours Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences and Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Attila Patócs
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.,Hereditary Tumours Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences and Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.,Department of Molecular Genetics, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Henriett Butz
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.,Hereditary Tumours Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences and Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.,Department of Molecular Genetics, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
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17
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Liu X, Wang R, Li M, Chen G. Pituitary adenoma or pituitary neuroendocrine tumor: a narrative review of controversy and perspective. Transl Cancer Res 2021; 10:1916-1920. [PMID: 35116513 PMCID: PMC8798339 DOI: 10.21037/tcr-20-3446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
In 1932, Harvey Cushing first proposed pituitary adenoma (PA) as the term for the cause of acromegaly. After nearly 90 years of research, PA is recognized as the second most common intracranial neoplasm. Most PAs can be easily cured or controlled by conventional therapies, including surgery, medical treatment or radiotherapy. However, nearly 40% of PAs are invasive, and some adenomas show aggressive behavior, with rapid growth patterns and resistance to conventional treatments, which leads to a poor prognosis; this type of adenoma is called aggressive or refractory PA. For a very small proportion of PAs (approximately 0.2%), subarachnoid or systemic metastasis may develop, at which point it is considered malignant and called pituitary carcinoma. Based on distinctions regarding the biological behaviors of adenoma, aggressive adenoma and pituitary carcinoma, the International Pituitary Pathology Club in 2016 formally proposed new terminology for PA: pituitary neuroendocrine tumor (PitNET). Over the last three years, an increasing number of relevant articles have used the term PitNET in place of PA. Interestingly, the fourth edition of the WHO classification of PA released in 2017 did not adopt this nomenclature, and the Pituitary Society published a paper in 2019 suggesting that the new nomenclature does not improve clinical diagnosis or treatment and confuses patients more than the PA terminology. The Pituitary Society insists on using the term PA, as PAs with aggressive behavior only account for a very small proportion of all PAs. Overall, the new terminology may cause significant and unnecessary patient anxiety and confusion. Here, we describe the current perspectives and bases of the two naming methods and offer our opinions on maintaining the original naming system for PA. Nevertheless, early diagnosis and intensive treatment of aggressive PAs is extremely important for improving patient prognosis, regardless of the nomenclature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohai Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Chinese Pituitary Specialists Congress, Beijing, China
| | - Renzhi Wang
- Chinese Pituitary Specialists Congress, Beijing, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Mingchu Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Chinese Pituitary Specialists Congress, Beijing, China
| | - Ge Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Chinese Pituitary Specialists Congress, Beijing, China
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18
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Liu X, Dai C, Feng M, Li M, Chen G, Wang R. Diagnosis and treatment of refractory pituitary adenomas: a narrative review. Gland Surg 2021; 10:1499-1507. [PMID: 33968701 DOI: 10.21037/gs-20-873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Although aggressive pituitary adenomas (PAs) have been proposed and widely discussed for more than a decade, there is no general agreement regarding their definition, diagnosis or management. As one of the largest pituitary centers in China, we have diagnosed and treated more than fifty cases of aggressive PA and 3 pituitary carcinomas in the past 5 years and proposed a new term, i.e., refractory PAs, to define these adenomas. The definitions of aggressive and refractory PAs overlap with each other, though there are some differences between them. We interpret the definition for refractory PA in this review, emphasizing that more attention and early identification of these adenomas are needed. Although temozolomide (TMZ) has been used to treat pituitary carcinomas and refractory PA since 2006, which has significantly improved the prognosis of these patients, treatment of refractory PA is a tremendous challenge for endocrinologists and neurosurgeons. Overall, refractory PA is defined as PA with a Ki-67 labeling index ≥3%, a faster growth rate than that of normal PA, infiltration of surrounding tissues, recurrence or regrowth in the early postoperative period, and continued growth and/or secretion of excessive hormones despite attempts to control it. These criteria for refractory PA are stricter than for aggressive PA. The diagnosis and treatment of refractory PA requires the collaboration of a multidisciplinary team to achieve the best results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohai Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Chinese Pituitary Specialists Congress, Beijing, China
| | - Congxin Dai
- Chinese Pituitary Specialists Congress, Beijing, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Tongren Hospital Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ming Feng
- Chinese Pituitary Specialists Congress, Beijing, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Mingchu Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Chinese Pituitary Specialists Congress, Beijing, China
| | - Ge Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Chinese Pituitary Specialists Congress, Beijing, China
| | - Renzhi Wang
- Chinese Pituitary Specialists Congress, Beijing, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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19
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Saksis R, Silamikelis I, Laksa P, Megnis K, Peculis R, Mandrika I, Rogoza O, Petrovska R, Balcere I, Konrade I, Steina L, Stukens J, Breiksa A, Nazarovs J, Sokolovska J, Pirags V, Klovins J, Rovite V. Medication for Acromegaly Reduces Expression of MUC16, MACC1 and GRHL2 in Pituitary Neuroendocrine Tumour Tissue. Front Oncol 2021; 10:593760. [PMID: 33680922 PMCID: PMC7928352 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.593760] [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: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Acromegaly is a disease mainly caused by pituitary neuroendocrine tumor (PitNET) overproducing growth hormone. First-line medication for this condition is the use of somatostatin analogs (SSAs), that decrease tumor mass and induce antiproliferative effects on PitNET cells. Dopamine agonists (DAs) can also be used if SSA treatment is not effective. This study aimed to determine differences in transcriptome signatures induced by SSA/DA therapy in PitNET tissue. We selected tumor tissue from twelve patients with somatotropinomas, with half of the patients receiving SSA/DA treatment before surgery and the other half treatment naive. Transcriptome sequencing was then carried out to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and their protein–protein interactions, using pathway analyses. We found 34 upregulated and six downregulated DEGs in patients with SSA/DA treatment. Three tumor development promoting factors MUC16, MACC1, and GRHL2, were significantly downregulated in therapy administered PitNET tissue; this finding was supported by functional studies in GH3 cells. Protein–protein interactions and pathway analyses revealed extracellular matrix involvement in the antiproliferative effects of this type of the drug treatment, with pronounced alterations in collagen regulation. Here, we have demonstrated that somatotropinomas can be distinguished based on their transcriptional profiles following SSA/DA therapy, and SSA/DA treatment does indeed cause changes in gene expression. Treatment with SSA/DA significantly downregulated several factors involved in tumorigenesis, including MUC16, MACC1, and GRHL2. Genes that were upregulated, however, did not have a direct influence on antiproliferative function in the PitNET cells. These findings suggested that SSA/DA treatment acted in a tumor suppressive manner and furthermore, collagen related interactions and pathways were enriched, implicating extracellular matrix involvement in this anti-tumor effect of drug treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rihards Saksis
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, Riga, Latvia
| | | | - Pola Laksa
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, Riga, Latvia
| | - Kaspars Megnis
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, Riga, Latvia
| | - Raitis Peculis
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, Riga, Latvia
| | - Ilona Mandrika
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, Riga, Latvia
| | - Olesja Rogoza
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, Riga, Latvia
| | | | - Inga Balcere
- Riga East Clinical University Hospital, Riga, Latvia.,Riga Stradins University, Riga, Latvia
| | - Ilze Konrade
- Riga East Clinical University Hospital, Riga, Latvia.,Riga Stradins University, Riga, Latvia
| | - Liva Steina
- Pauls Stradins Clinical University Hospital, Riga, Latvia
| | - Janis Stukens
- Pauls Stradins Clinical University Hospital, Riga, Latvia
| | - Austra Breiksa
- Pauls Stradins Clinical University Hospital, Riga, Latvia
| | | | | | - Valdis Pirags
- Pauls Stradins Clinical University Hospital, Riga, Latvia.,University of Latvia Faculty of Medicine, Riga, Latvia
| | - Janis Klovins
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, Riga, Latvia
| | - Vita Rovite
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, Riga, Latvia
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20
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Dai C, Kang J, Liu X, Yao Y, Wang H, Wang R. How to Classify and Define Pituitary Tumors: Recent Advances and Current Controversies. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:604644. [PMID: 33815274 PMCID: PMC8010908 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.604644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Pituitary tumors are very complex and heterogeneous and have a very wide range of proliferative and aggressive behaviors, and how to define and classify these tumors remains controversial. This review summarizes the epidemiology and progress in the classification and definition of pituitary tumors, as well as controversial issues. Based on the results of radiologic and autopsy studies, the prevalence of pituitary tumors has recently increased significantly. However, the majority of pituitary tumors are incidentally discovered and asymptomatic, and such tumors are called pituitary incidentalomas. Most of these incidentalomas do not induce symptoms, remain stable in size, and do not need treatment. The recent revised classification strategies mainly depend on immunohistochemistry (IHC) to detect pituitary hormones and pituitary transcription factors; therefore, the accuracy of diagnosing pituitary tumors has improved. Although new classification strategies and definitions for pituitary tumors have been presented, there are still some controversies. The term pituitary neuroendocrine tumor (PitNET) was proposed by the International Pituitary Pathology Club, and this terminology can encompass the unpredictable malignant behavior seen in the subset of aggressive pituitary adenomas (PAs). However, some endocrinologists who oppose this change in terminology have argued that the use of tumor in the terminology is misleading, as it gives PAs a harmful connotation when the majority are not aggressive. Such terminology may add new ambiguity to the origin of PAs and unnecessary anxiety and frustration for the majority of patients with benign PAs. The classification of aggressive PAs mainly relies on subjective judgment of clinical behavior and lacks objective biomarkers and unified diagnostic criteria. However, the term "refractory" could more accurately represent the characteristics of these tumors, including their clinical behaviors, radiological features, and pathologic characteristics. Moreover, the diagnostic criteria for refractory PAs are stricter, more objective, and more accurate than those for aggressive PAs. Early identification of patients with these tumors through recognition and increased awareness of the definition of refractory PAs will encourage the early use of aggressive therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Congxin Dai
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Kang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaohai Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yong Yao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- China Pituitary Adenoma Specialist Council, Beijing, China
| | - Haijun Wang
- China Pituitary Adenoma Specialist Council, Beijing, China
- Department of Neurosurgery and Pituitary Tumor Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Renzhi Wang, ; Haijun Wang,
| | - Renzhi Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- China Pituitary Adenoma Specialist Council, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Renzhi Wang, ; Haijun Wang,
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21
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Liu G, Wang L, Li Y. Inhibition of lncRNA-UCA1 suppresses pituitary cancer cell growth and prolactin (PRL) secretion via attenuating glycolysis pathway. In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Anim 2020; 56:642-649. [PMID: 32909148 DOI: 10.1007/s11626-020-00494-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/09/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Pituitary tumor is one type of endocrine tumor with high incidence and mortality rates. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a family of non-coding RNAs with longer than 200 nucleotides. Among them, lncRNA-UCA1 is highly expressed in multiple cancers and plays critically oncogenic roles in tumor progressions. However, the potential roles of UCA1 in human pituitary tumor have not been elucidated. In this study, the expressions of lncRNA-UCA1 were analyzed in thirty pituitary tumor samples and thirty normal pituitary tissues. Cancer cell glycolysis rate was examined by glucose uptake and lactate production. The lncRNA-UCA1 expression was detected by qRT-PCR. Glycolysis enzyme expressions were measured by Western blot and qRT-PCR. Consistent with other cancers, lncRNA-UCA1 was highly expressed in pituitary tumors. Meanwhile, we found glycolysis of pituitary tumors was higher than normal pituitary tissues. Overexpression of lncRNA-UCA1 in rat pituitary cancer cell lines, GH3 and MMQ, significantly promoted glucose uptake and lactate production. In addition, expressions of the glycolysis key enzymes, HK2 and LDHA, were significantly upregulated by exogenous overexpression of lncRNA-UCA1. Importantly, silencing lncRNA-UCA1 obviously inhibited pituitary cancer cells growth and prolactin (PRL) secretion. We report higher lncRNA-UCA1 expression is associated with higher serum PRL level in pituitary patients. Finally, by blocking the lncRNA-UCA1-promoted glycolysis of pituitary cancer cells by glycolysis inhibitor, 2-DG, we obtained recovery of cell growth rate and PRL secretion from an in vitro model. Taken together, our investigation revealed an oncogenic role of lncRNA-UCA1 through upregulating glycolysis of pituitary tumors. This study contributes to underlying molecular mechanisms of the tumorigenesis of pituitary tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Liu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Tianjin Huanhu Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, People's Republic of China.
| | - Lu Wang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Tianjin Third Central Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Li
- Department of Internal Medicine, Tianjin Huanhu Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, People's Republic of China
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22
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Zhou Y, Fu X, Zheng Z, Ren Y, Zheng Z, Zhang B, Yuan M, Duan J, Li M, Hong T, Lu G, Zhou D. Identification of gene co-expression modules and hub genes associated with the invasiveness of pituitary adenoma. Endocrine 2020; 68:377-389. [PMID: 32342269 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-020-02316-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
In pituitary adenoma (PA), invasiveness is the main cause of recurrence and poor prognosis. Thus, identifying specific biomarkers for diagnosis and effective treatment of invasive PAs is of great clinical significance. In this study, from the Gene Expression Omnibus database, we obtained and combined several microarrays of PA by the "sva" R package. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis was performed to construct a scale-free topology model and analyze the relationships between the modules and clinical traits. Our analysis results indicated that three key modules (dark turquoise, saddle brown, and steel blue) were associated with the invasiveness of PA. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analysis and Gene Ontology analysis were performed for the functional annotation of the key modules. In addition, the hub genes in the three modules were identified and screened by differential expression analysis between normal samples and PA samples. Three upregulated differentially expressed genes (DGAT2, PIGZ, and DHRS2) were identified. The Fisher's exact test and receiver operating characteristic curve were used to validate the capability of these genes to distinguish invasive traits, and transcription factor interaction networks were used to further explore the underlying mechanisms of the three genes. Moreover, a lower expression level of DGAT2 in invasive PA tissue than in noninvasive PA tissue was validated by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. In general, this study contributes to potential molecular biomarkers of invasive PAs and provides a broader perspective for diagnosis and new therapeutic targets for the invasive PAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuancheng Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, PR China
- The First Clinical Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, PR China
| | - Xiaorui Fu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, PR China
- Medical Department, Queen Mary College , Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Zhicheng Zheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, PR China
- The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, PR China
| | - Yu Ren
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, PR China
- The First Clinical Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, PR China
| | - Zijian Zheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, PR China
- The First Clinical Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, PR China
| | - Bohan Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, PR China
- The First Clinical Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, PR China
| | - Min Yuan
- Shanggao County People's Hospital, Yichun, Jiangxi, PR China
| | - Jian Duan
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, PR China
| | - Meihua Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, PR China
| | - Tao Hong
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, PR China
| | - Guohui Lu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, PR China.
| | - Dongwei Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, PR China.
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23
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Dai C, Liang S, Sun B, Kang J. The Progress of Immunotherapy in Refractory Pituitary Adenomas and Pituitary Carcinomas. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:608422. [PMID: 33362722 PMCID: PMC7761748 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.608422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Most pituitary adenomas (PAs) are considered benign tumors, but approximately 0.2% can present metastasis and are classified as pituitary carcinomas (PCs). Refractory PAs lie between benign adenomas and true malignant PC and are defined as aggressive-invasive PAs characterized by a high Ki-67 index, rapid growth, frequent recurrence, and resistance to conventional treatments, including temozolomide. It is notoriously difficult to manage refractory PAs and PC because of the limited therapeutic options. As a promising therapeutic approach, cancer immunotherapy has been experimentally used for the treatment of many tumors, including pituitary tumors. The purpose of this review is to report the progress of immunotherapy in pituitary tumors, including refractory PAs and PCs. The tumor immune microenvironment has been recognized as a key contributor to tumorigenesis, progression, and prognosis. One study indicated that the number of CD68+ macrophages was positively correlated with tumor size and Knosp classification grade for tumor invasiveness. The infiltration of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells was relatively scant in these adenomas, but pituitary growth hormone (GH) adenomas exhibited significantly more CD4+ and CD8+ T cells than non-GH adenomas. These results suggest an association of CD68+ macrophage infiltration with an increase in pituitary tumor size and invasiveness. Another study suggested that a lower number of CD8+ lymphocytes is associated with cavernous sinus invasion and resistance to treatment with first-generation somatostatin analogs in acromegaly patients, highlighting a potential role of the tumor immune microenvironment in determining the prognosis of somatotroph pituitary tumors. Preclinical studies have indicated that widely varying degrees of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) are found among different subtypes. Functional PAs and aggressive PAs express significantly higher levels of PD-L1 and TILs than other subtypes, indicating that PD-1 blockade might be a promising alternative therapy for patients with aggressive PAs. PD-L1 transcript and protein levels were found to be significantly increased in functioning (GH and prolactin-expressing) pituitary tumors compared to nonfunctioning (null cell and silent gonadotroph) adenomas. Moreover, primary pituitary tumors harbored higher levels of PD-L1 mRNA than recurrent tumors. These findings suggest the possibility of considering checkpoint blockade immunotherapy for functioning pituitary tumors refractory to conventional management. Animal models of Cushing's disease also demonstrated PD-L1 and TIL expression in cultured tumors and murine models, as well as the effectiveness of checkpoint blockade therapy in reducing the tumor mass, decreasing hormone secretion, and increasing the survival rate. Clinical studies show that immunotherapy may be an effective treatment in patients with pituitary tumors. One corticotroph carcinoma patient showed a significant reduction in hormone levels and shrinkage of the tumor size of primary and metastatic lesions immediately after investigational treatment with ipilimumab and nivolumab. However, another patient with corticotroph adenoma progressed rapidly after four cycles of anti-PD-1 (pembrolizumab) treatment. To date, there are two registered clinical trials of immunotherapy for pituitary tumors. One of them is the phase II clinical trial of nivolumab combined with ipilimumab for patients with aggressive pituitary tumors (NCT04042753). The other one is also a phase II clinical trial of the combination of nivolumab and ipilimumab for rare tumors, including pituitary tumors (NCT02834013). Both clinical trials are in the stage of recruiting patients and have not been completed. In summary, the results from preclinical research and clinical studies indicated that immunotherapy might be a promising alternative therapy for PCs and refractory PAs resistant to conventional treatments. The combination of immunotherapy and radiotherapy or temozolomide may have synergistic effects compared to a single treatment. More preclinical and clinical studies are needed to further indicate the exact efficacy of immunotherapy in pituitary tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Congxin Dai
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Siyu Liang
- Eight-Year Program of Clinical Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH), Chinese Academe of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College (CAMS & PUMC), Beijing, China
| | - Bowen Sun
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Kang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Jun Kang,
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