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Soto-Heras S, Reinacher L, Wang B, Oh JE, Bunnell M, Park CJ, Hess RA, Ko CJ. Cryptorchidism and testicular cancer in the dog: unresolved questions and challenges in translating insights from human studies†. Biol Reprod 2024; 111:269-291. [PMID: 38738783 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioae075] [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: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Cryptorchidism, the failure of one or both testes to descend into the scrotum, and testicular cancer show a strong correlation in both dogs and humans. Yet, long-standing medical debates persist about whether the location of undescended testes directly causes testicular cancer in humans or if both conditions stem from a common origin. Although testicular cancer is a prevalent disease in dogs, even less is known about its cause and correlation with testicular descent in this species. This review investigates the relation between these two disorders in dogs, drawing insights from human studies, and examines key biomarkers identified thus far. In addition, it explores potential causal links, including the impact of temperature on maturing testicular cells and a potential shared genetic origin. Notably, this literature review reveals significant differences between men and dogs in reproductive development, histological and molecular features of testicular tumors, and the prevalence of specific tumor types, such as Sertoli cell tumors in cryptorchid dogs and germ cell tumors in humans. These disparities caution against using dogs as models for human testicular cancer research and underscore the limitations when drawing comparisons between species. The paper concludes by suggesting specific research initiatives to enhance our understanding of the complex interplay between cryptorchidism and testicular cancer in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Soto-Heras
- Epivara, Inc., 2109 S. Oak Street, Suite 100A, Champaign, IL 61820, USA
| | - Lindsey Reinacher
- Epivara, Inc., 2109 S. Oak Street, Suite 100A, Champaign, IL 61820, USA
| | - Bensen Wang
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Ji Eun Oh
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Mary Bunnell
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Chan Jin Park
- Epivara, Inc., 2109 S. Oak Street, Suite 100A, Champaign, IL 61820, USA
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Rex A Hess
- Epivara, Inc., 2109 S. Oak Street, Suite 100A, Champaign, IL 61820, USA
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - CheMyong Jay Ko
- Epivara, Inc., 2109 S. Oak Street, Suite 100A, Champaign, IL 61820, USA
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
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2
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Cheng K, Seita Y, Whelan EC, Yokomizo R, Hwang YS, Rotolo A, Krantz ID, Ginsberg JP, Kolon TF, Lal P, Luo X, Pierorazio PM, Linn RL, Ryeom S, Sasaki K. Defining the cellular origin of seminoma by transcriptional and epigenetic mapping to the normal human germline. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114323. [PMID: 38861385 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114323] [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: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Aberrant male germline development can lead to the formation of seminoma, a testicular germ cell tumor. Seminomas are biologically similar to primordial germ cells (PGCs) and many bear an isochromosome 12p [i(12p)] with two additional copies of the short arm of chromosome 12. By mapping seminoma transcriptomes and open chromatin landscape onto a normal human male germline trajectory, we find that seminoma resembles premigratory/migratory PGCs; however, it exhibits enhanced germline and pluripotency programs and upregulation of genes involved in apoptosis, angiogenesis, and MAPK/ERK pathways. Using pluripotent stem cell-derived PGCs from Pallister-Killian syndrome patients mosaic for i(12p), we model seminoma and identify gene dosage effects that may contribute to transformation. As murine seminoma models do not exist, our analyses provide critical insights into genetic, cellular, and signaling programs driving seminoma transformation, and the in vitro platform developed herein permits evaluation of additional signals required for seminoma tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keren Cheng
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, 3800 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Yasunari Seita
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, 3800 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Eoin C Whelan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, 3800 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Ryo Yokomizo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, 3800 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Young Sun Hwang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, 3800 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Antonia Rotolo
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, 3800 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Ian D Krantz
- Division of Human Genetics, The Roberts Individualized Medical Genetics Center, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3500 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Jill P Ginsberg
- Department of Pediatrics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3500 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Thomas F Kolon
- Division of Urology, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3500 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Priti Lal
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Xunda Luo
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Presbyterian Medical Center, 51 North 39th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Phillip M Pierorazio
- Division of Urology, University of Pennsylvania Presbyterian Medical Center, 3737 Market St. 4th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Rebecca L Linn
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Pathology, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Sandra Ryeom
- Department of Surgery, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, 630 W. 168th Street, P&S 17-409, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Kotaro Sasaki
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, 3800 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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3
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Nicu AT, Ionel IP, Stoica I, Burlibasa L, Jinga V. Recent Advancements in Research on DNA Methylation and Testicular Germ Cell Tumors: Unveiling the Intricate Relationship. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1041. [PMID: 38791003 PMCID: PMC11117643 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12051041] [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: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) are the most common type of testicular cancer, with a particularly high incidence in the 15-45-year age category. Although highly treatable, resistance to therapy sometimes occurs, with devastating consequences for the patients. Additionally, the young age at diagnosis and the treatment itself pose a great threat to patients' fertility. Despite extensive research concerning genetic and environmental risk factors, little is known about TGCT etiology. However, epigenetics has recently come into the spotlight as a major factor in TGCT initiation, progression, and even resistance to treatment. As such, recent studies have been focusing on epigenetic mechanisms, which have revealed their potential in the development of novel, non-invasive biomarkers. As the most studied epigenetic mechanism, DNA methylation was the first revelation in this particular field, and it continues to be a main target of investigations as research into its association with TGCT has contributed to a better understanding of this type of cancer and constantly reveals novel aspects that can be exploited through clinical applications. In addition to biomarker development, DNA methylation holds potential for developing novel treatments based on DNA methyltransferase inhibitors (DNMTis) and may even be of interest for fertility management in cancer survivors. This manuscript is structured as a literature review, which comprehensively explores the pivotal role of DNA methylation in the pathogenesis, progression, and treatment resistance of TGCTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina-Teodora Nicu
- Genetics Department, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 030018 Bucharest, Romania; (A.-T.N.); (I.S.)
| | - Ileana Paula Ionel
- Department of Specific Disciplines, Faculty of Midwifery and Nursing, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ileana Stoica
- Genetics Department, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 030018 Bucharest, Romania; (A.-T.N.); (I.S.)
| | - Liliana Burlibasa
- Genetics Department, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 030018 Bucharest, Romania; (A.-T.N.); (I.S.)
| | - Viorel Jinga
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, 050474 Bucharest, Romania;
- The Academy of Romanian Scientists, 050044 Bucharest, Romania
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4
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Singh Y, Barua SK, Singh VK, Trivedi S, Rajeev TP, Koti SR, Garg N. Intratumoral Heterogeneity, Chemoresistance and Lymph Node Landing Zone Prognosis in Testicular Tumors Based on Histopathological Characteristics. Ann Surg Oncol 2024; 31:3544-3553. [PMID: 38381210 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-024-15051-z] [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: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Existing data on the histopathological correlation of testicular tumors with lymph node prognosis have been poorly explored. We aimed to investigate the relationship of the histopathological properties of testicular tumors with lymph nodes and their involvement with chemoresistance and heterogeneity of testicular tumors. METHODS Patients with non-seminomatous germ cell tumor (NSGCT) were selected for histopathological correlation of testicular tumor with lymph nodes and its relationship with chemoresistance and heterogeneity. Histopathological and radiological parameters associated with the risk of chemoresistance and tumor progression were measured pre- and post-chemotherapy. Binomial logistic regression and Kaplan-Meier analysis were implemented to determine the predictors of progression and adverse overall patient survival. All categorical variables were analyzed using the Chi-square test, while Pearson's R coefficient determined the correlation. RESULTS Male patients who were diagnosed with NSGCT from March 2017 to December 2018 at Guwahati Medical College, Guwahati, India, were included in this study. Lymph node groups were predominantly incriminated with the EYST or EYS groups and minimally linked with the pure E and YCS groups. Furthermore, the highest number of lymph node stations was associated with pre-chemotherapy. In salvage chemotherapy in the form of VIP, we found exciting outcomes, as approximately 41% of cases responded positively, especially in the EYS group. CONCLUSION Our study classifies NSGCT according to the most favorable histopathological grouping and explores the tumoral response in different intrinsic and extrinsic variables. Our analysis can serve as a triumphant histopathological nomogram for a sublime management protocol to deal with the onerous histological pairing in NSGCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yashasvi Singh
- Department of Urology, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India.
| | - Sasanka Kumar Barua
- Department of Urology, Gauhati Medical College and Hospital, Guwahati, India
| | - Vipendra Kumar Singh
- School of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, Mandi, HP, India
| | - Sameer Trivedi
- Department of Urology, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - T P Rajeev
- Department of Urology, Gauhati Medical College and Hospital, Guwahati, India
| | - Sridhar Reddy Koti
- Department of Urology, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - Neha Garg
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India.
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Ataikiru UO, Iacob ER, Heredea ER, Stănciulescu MC, Galinescu MC, Popoiu CM, Boia ES. A 10-year retrospective study of the risks and peculiarities in pediatric patients with (para)gonadal tumors and cysts. ROMANIAN JOURNAL OF MORPHOLOGY AND EMBRYOLOGY = REVUE ROUMAINE DE MORPHOLOGIE ET EMBRYOLOGIE 2024; 65:225-241. [PMID: 39020537 PMCID: PMC11384043 DOI: 10.47162/rjme.65.2.09] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Gonadal pediatric tumors are rare, ranking fourth (6%) among pediatric tumors, by Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program (https:∕∕seer.cancer.gov∕). They have vague symptoms, leading to late discovery, but early detection and identifying its risk factors result in favorable prognosis and reduction of its incidence respectively. PATIENTS, MATERIAL AND METHODS A 10-year retrospective study identified peculiarities and risk factors in 210 children till age 17 with (para)gonadal tumors. RESULTS Stress, pollution (agricultural chemicals, insecticides and metal mine), obesity, breastfeeding ≤5 months, malformations [mainly non-genetic related 67∕87 (77%), especially eye malformation - 64%], hormone, smoking, positive heredo-genetic history, rural residence area, abnormal birth weight, and menstruation disorders showed an increased gonadal malignancy risk; relative risk ratio (RR): 1.33, 1.30, 1.34, 1.11, 1.65, 1.16, 1.36, 1.10, 1.00, 1.08 and 1.15 folds, respectively. RR for histopathological subtypes: immature teratoma (IT) (pollution - 1.75, Rhesus positive - 3.41), dysgerminoma (menstruation disorders - 2.80), granulosa cell tumor (stress - 2.10, menstruation disorders - 2.80), mucinous cystadenomas (obesity - 2.84, no postnatal vaccine - 3.71), mature teratomas (stress - 2.35, malformations - 2.18) and serous cystadenomas (breastfeeding ≤5 months - 2.53), dependent variables being mixed germ cell tumors (GCTs) and cysts. Children presenting with bleeding (73%), abdominal distention (62%), elevated tumor markers (91%), (multilocular) solid tumor (88% and 100%), tumor size >10 cm (65%), GCTs (74%), death (100%), metastases (100%), viruses (77%), loss of appetite (68%), and weight (85%), had gonadal malignant tumors, especially mixed GCTs and IT. CONCLUSIONS Avoiding these risk factors will prevent and reduce gonadal pediatric tumors. Investigating children presenting with the listed peculiarities, especially if exposed to the mentioned risk factors, will enable early gonadal tumor identification, successful patient management, and favorable prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Usiwoma Okeroghene Ataikiru
- Department of Pediatric Surgery and Orthopedics, Victor Babeş University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timişoara, Romania; ,
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Köberle B, Usanova S, Piee-Staffa A, Heinicke U, Clauss P, Brozovic A, Kaina B. Strong apoptotic response of testis tumor cells following cisplatin treatment. Int Urol Nephrol 2024; 56:1007-1017. [PMID: 37891379 PMCID: PMC10853295 DOI: 10.1007/s11255-023-03825-5] [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: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Most solid metastatic cancers are resistant to chemotherapy. However, metastatic testicular germ cell tumors (TGCT) are cured in over 80% of patients using cisplatin-based combination therapy. Published data suggest that TGCTs are sensitive to cisplatin due to limited DNA repair and presumably also to a propensity to undergo apoptosis. To further investigate this aspect, cisplatin-induced activation of apoptotic pathways was investigated in cisplatin-sensitive testis tumor cells (TTC) and compared to cisplatin-resistant bladder cancer cells. Apoptosis induction was investigated using flow cytometry, caspase activation and PARP-1 cleavage. Immunoblotting and RT-PCR were applied to investigate pro- and anti-apoptotic proteins. Transfections were performed to target p53- and Fas/FasL-mediated apoptotic signaling. Immunoblotting experiments revealed p53 to be induced in TTC, but not bladder cancer cells following cisplatin. Higher levels of pro-apoptotic Bax and Noxa were observed in TTC, anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 was solely expressed in bladder cancer cells. Cisplatin led to translocation of Bax to the mitochondrial membrane in TTC, resulting in cytochrome C release. Cisplatin increased the expression of FasR mRNA and FasL protein in all tumor cell lines. Targeting the apoptotic pathway via siRNA-mediated knockdown of p53 and FAS reduced death receptor-mediated apoptosis and increased cisplatin resistance in TTC, indicating the involvement of FAS-mediated apoptosis in the cisplatin TTC response. In conclusion, both the death receptor and the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway become strongly activated in TTC following cisplatin treatment, explaining, together with attenuated DNA repair, their unique sensitivity toward platinum-based anticancer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beate Köberle
- Institute of Toxicology, University of Mainz Medical Center, 55131, Mainz, Germany.
- Department of Food Chemistry and Toxicology, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, 76131, Karlsruhe, Germany.
| | - Svetlana Usanova
- Institute of Toxicology, University of Mainz Medical Center, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - Andrea Piee-Staffa
- Institute of Toxicology, University of Mainz Medical Center, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - Ulrike Heinicke
- Institute of Toxicology, University of Mainz Medical Center, 55131, Mainz, Germany
- Department of Anesthesiology, Intensive Care Medicine and Pain Therapy, University Hospital Frankfurt, 60596, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany
| | - Philipp Clauss
- Institute of Toxicology, University of Mainz Medical Center, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - Anamaria Brozovic
- Division of Molecular Biology, Ruđer Bošković Institute, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Bernd Kaina
- Institute of Toxicology, University of Mainz Medical Center, 55131, Mainz, Germany.
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Sadek KM, AbdEllatief HY, Mahmoud SFE, Alexiou A, Papadakis M, Al‐Hajeili M, Saad HM, Batiha GE. New insights on testicular cancer prevalence with novel diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic approaches. Cancer Rep (Hoboken) 2024; 7:e2052. [PMID: 38507271 PMCID: PMC10953835 DOI: 10.1002/cnr2.2052] [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: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Testicular cancer (TC), comprising merely 1% of male neoplasms, holds the distinction of being the most commonly encountered neoplasm among young males. RECENT FINDINGS Most cases of testicular neoplasms can be classified into two main groups, namely germ cell tumors representing approximately 95% of the cases, and sex cord-stromal tumors accounting for about 5% of the cases. Moreover, its prevalence is on the rise across the globe. TC is a neoplastic condition characterized by a favorable prognosis. The advent of cisplatin-based chemotherapeutic agents in the latter part of the 1970s has led to a significant enhancement in the 5-year survival rate, which presently surpasses 95%. Given that TC is commonly detected before reaching the age of 40, it can be anticipated that these individuals will enjoy an additional 40-50 years of life following successful treatment. The potential causes of TC are multifactorial and related to different pathologies. Accurate identification is imperative to guarantee the utmost efficacious and suitable therapy. To a certain degree, this can be accomplished through the utilization of blood examinations for neoplastic indicators; nonetheless, an unequivocal diagnosis necessitates an evaluation of the histological composition of a specimen via a pathologist. CONCLUSION TC is multifactorial and has various pathologies, therefore this review aimed to revise the prenatal and postnatal causes as well as novel diagnostic biomarkers and the therapeutic strategies of TC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kadry M. Sadek
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineDamanhour UniversityAbadiyyat DamanhurEgypt
| | - Hazem Y. AbdEllatief
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineDamanhour UniversityAbadiyyat DamanhurEgypt
| | - Sahar F. E. Mahmoud
- Department of Histology, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineDamanhour UniversityAbadiyyat DamanhurEgypt
| | - Athanasios Alexiou
- University Centre for Research and DevelopmentChandigarh UniversityMohaliPunjabIndia
- Department of Research and Development, FunogenAthensGreece
- Department of Research and DevelopmentAFNP MedWienAustria
- Department of Science and EngineeringNovel Global Community Educational FoundationHebershamNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Marios Papadakis
- Department of Surgery IIUniversity Hospital Witten‐HerdeckeWuppertalGermany
| | - Marwan Al‐Hajeili
- Department of MedicineKing Abdulaziz UniversityJeddahKingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Hebatallah M. Saad
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineMatrouh UniversityMarsa MatruhEgypt
| | - Gaber El‐Saber Batiha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineDamanhour UniversityDamanhourEgypt
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Paul A, Danjou AMN, Deygas F, Guth M, Coste A, Lefevre M, Dananché B, Kromhout H, Spinosi J, Béranger R, Pérol O, Boyle H, Hersant C, Loup-Cabaniols V, Veau S, Bujan L, Olsson A, Schüz J, Fervers B, Charbotel B. Parental occupations at birth and risk of adult testicular germ cell tumors in offspring: a French nationwide case-control study. Front Public Health 2024; 11:1303998. [PMID: 38292387 PMCID: PMC10825020 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1303998] [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: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCT) are the most frequent cancer in young men in developed countries. Parental occupational exposures during early-life periods are suspected to increase TGCT risk. The objective was to estimate the association between parental occupations at birth and adult TGCT. Methods A case-control study was conducted, including 454 TGCT cases aged 18-45 from 20 French university hospitals, matched to 670 controls based on region and year of birth. Data collected from participants included parental jobs at birth coded according to the International Standard Classification of Occupation-1968 and the French nomenclature of activities-1999. Odds ratios (OR) for TGCT and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated using conditional logistic regression, adjusting for TGCT risk factors. Results Paternal jobs at birth as service workers (OR = 1.98, CI 1.18-3.30), protective service workers (OR = 2.40, CI 1.20-4.81), transport equipment operators (OR = 1.96, CI 1.14-3.37), specialized farmers (OR = 2.66, CI 1.03-6.90), and maternal jobs as secondary education teachers (OR = 2.27, CI 1.09-4.76) or in secondary education (OR = 2.35, CI 1.13-4.88) were significantly associated with adult TGCT. The risk of seminoma was increased for the above-mentioned paternal jobs and that of non-seminomas for public administration and defence; compulsory social security (OR = 1.99, CI 1.09-3.65); general, economic, and social administration (OR = 3.21, CI 1.23-8.39) for fathers; and secondary education teacher (OR = 4.67, CI 1.87-11.67) and secondary education (OR = 3.50, CI 1.36-9.01) for mothers. Conclusion Some paternal jobs, such as service workers, transport equipment operators, or specialized farmers, and maternal jobs in secondary education seem to be associated with an increased risk of TGCT with specific features depending on the histological type. These data allow hypotheses to be put forward for further studies as to the involvement of occupational exposures in the risk of developing TGCT, such as exposure to pesticides, solvents, or heavy metals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adèle Paul
- UMRESTTE (Epidemiological Research and Surveillance Unit in Transport, Occupation and Environment), Lyon 1 University, Eiffel University, Lyon, France
- Department of Occupational Health, AMEBAT, Nantes, France
| | - Aurélie M. N. Danjou
- Environment and Lifestyle Epidemiology Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer/World Health Organization, Lyon, France
| | - Floriane Deygas
- UMRESTTE (Epidemiological Research and Surveillance Unit in Transport, Occupation and Environment), Lyon 1 University, Eiffel University, Lyon, France
- Département Prévention, Cancer et Environnement, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - Margot Guth
- UMRESTTE (Epidemiological Research and Surveillance Unit in Transport, Occupation and Environment), Lyon 1 University, Eiffel University, Lyon, France
| | - Astrid Coste
- Département Prévention, Cancer et Environnement, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
- Department of Medical Oncology, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - Marie Lefevre
- UMRESTTE (Epidemiological Research and Surveillance Unit in Transport, Occupation and Environment), Lyon 1 University, Eiffel University, Lyon, France
| | - Brigitte Dananché
- Département Prévention, Cancer et Environnement, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - Hans Kromhout
- Department of Environmental Epidemiology, Institute or Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Johan Spinosi
- UMRESTTE (Epidemiological Research and Surveillance Unit in Transport, Occupation and Environment), Lyon 1 University, Eiffel University, Lyon, France
- Direction Santé Travail, Santé Public France, Saint Maurice, France
| | - Rémi Béranger
- Univ Rennes, CHU Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail), Rennes, France
| | - Olivia Pérol
- Département Prévention, Cancer et Environnement, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - Helen Boyle
- Department of Medical Oncology, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | | | - Vanessa Loup-Cabaniols
- Department of Reproductive Biology, CECOS, University Hospital of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Ségolène Veau
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Biology, CECOS, CHU Rennes, Rennes, France
| | - Louis Bujan
- DEFE (Développement Embryonnaire, Fertilité, Environnement) INSERM 1202 Universités Montpellier et Toulouse 3, CECOS Hôpital Paule de Viguier, CHU de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
- Fédération Française des CECOS, Paris, France
| | - Ann Olsson
- Environment and Lifestyle Epidemiology Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer/World Health Organization, Lyon, France
| | - Joachim Schüz
- Environment and Lifestyle Epidemiology Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer/World Health Organization, Lyon, France
| | - Béatrice Fervers
- Département Prévention, Cancer et Environnement, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
- Inserm UA1296 Radiations: Défense, Santé, Environnement, Lyon, France
| | - Barbara Charbotel
- UMRESTTE (Epidemiological Research and Surveillance Unit in Transport, Occupation and Environment), Lyon 1 University, Eiffel University, Lyon, France
- CRPPE Lyon (Centre Régional de Pathologies Professionnelles et Environnementales), Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
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Tang S, Jones C, Dye J, Coward K. Dissociation, enrichment, and the in vitro formation of gonocyte colonies from cryopreserved neonatal bovine testicular tissues. Theriogenology 2023; 210:143-153. [PMID: 37499372 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.07.022] [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: 12/11/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Gonocytes play an important role in early development of spermatogonial stem cells and fertility preservation to acquire more high quality gonocytes in vitro for further germ cell-related research and applications, it is necessarily needed to enrich and in vitro propagate gonocytes from cryopreserved bovine testicular tissues. This study aimed to investigate the isolation, enrichment, and colony formation of gonocytes in vitro for germ cell expansion from cryopreserved neonatal bovine testicular tissues. The effects of several different in vitro culture conditions, including seeding density, temperature, serum replacement and extracellular matrices were investigated for the maintenance, proliferation and formation of gonocyte colonies in vitro. Frozen/thawed two-week-old neonatal bovine testicular tissues were digested and gonocytes were enriched using a Percoll density gradient. Cell viability was accessed by trypan blue staining and cell apoptosis was evaluated by TUNEL assays. Gonocytes were identified and confirmed by immunofluorescence with the PGP9.5 germ cell marker and the OCT4 pluripotency marker while Sertoli cells were stained with vimentin. We found that neonatal bovine gonocytes were efficiently enriched by a 30%-40% Percoll density gradient (p < 0.05). No significant differences were detected between neonatal bovine testicular cells cultured at 34 °C or 37 °C. The formation of gonocyte colonies was observed in culture medium supplemented with knockout serum replacement (KSR), but not fetal bovine serum (FBS), at a seeding density higher than 5.0 × 104 cells/well. A greater number of gonocyte colonies were observed in culture plates coated with laminin (38.00 ± 6.24/well) and Matrigel (38.67 ± 3.78/well) when compared to plates coated with collagen IV and fibronectin (p < 0.05). In conclusion, bovine neonatal gonocytes were able to be efficiently isolated, enriched and maintained in gonocyte colonies in vitro; the development of this protocol provides vital information for the clinical translation of this technology and the future restoration of human fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiyan Tang
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Celine Jones
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Julian Dye
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Engineering Science, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Kevin Coward
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom.
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10
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Ataikiru U, Iacob R, Chirita-Emandi A, Galinescu M, Miron I, Popoiu C, Boia E. A 10-YEAR STUDY OF CHILDREN WITH GONADAL TUMORS AND DISORDERS OF SEX DIFFERENTIATION, IN ROMANIA. ACTA ENDOCRINOLOGICA (BUCHAREST, ROMANIA : 2005) 2023; 19:487-496. [PMID: 38933245 PMCID: PMC11197840 DOI: 10.4183/aeb.2023.487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Context Children having gonadal tumors and disorder of sex differentiation (DSD) are rare. Objective To investigate the presentation of DSD children with malignant gonadal tumors. Methods A retrospective study from 2010-2020, that evaluated 17 children with DSD, including 13 females, eight months to 16 years, with congenital adrenal hyperplasia, 5-alpha reductase deficiency, androgen insensitivity syndrome, Turner, Sywer, and Klinefelter syndromes. Results Ten children had malignant gonadal tumor; nine had germ cell tumors and one person granulosa cell tumors, while seven children with non-malignant tumor had gonadoblastoma, cystadenoma (five children), and cysts. Systemic malformations, obesity, elevated tumor markers, and psychosocial issues were observed in 90%, 90%, 70%, and 50% of children with malignancy unlike 28.6%, 42.9%, 14.35%, and 57.1% children without malignancy respectively. Most (9/10) children >12 years, had psychosocial issues, unlike 0/7 children ≤12 years. From 8/17 children presenting with symptoms suggestive of tumor, 75% had malignancy, while from 9/17 children with DSD presentation, 44% had malignant tumors. Malignancy was observed in 3/10 children between eight months to age six, while 7/10 children had stage 1-2 tumors. We reported a child, identified as female, aged 13 years, with partial androgen insensivity syndrome (PAIS) 46,XY, and testicular papillary serous cystadenoma with genomic variant AR NM_000044.4:c.2750del. p.(F917Sfs*27) chromosome Xq12, never published in people with PAIS nor population databases (GnomAD). Conclusion DSD diagnosis raises numerous challenges. People with DSD have increased risk of malignancy, especially when obesity and, systemic malformations are present; also, psychosocial issues in these children are associated with postpubertal age.
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Affiliation(s)
- U. Ataikiru
- “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy - Pediatric Surgery, Timisoara
| | - R. Iacob
- “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy - Pediatric Surgery, Timisoara
| | - A. Chirita-Emandi
- “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy - Pediatric Surgery, Timisoara
| | - M. Galinescu
- Bacău County Emergency Hospital - Department of Pediatric Surgery and Orthopedics, Bacău
| | - I. Miron
- “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy
- “Sfanta Maria” Emergency Clinical Hospital - IV Pediatrics Clinic, Iasi, Romania
| | - C. Popoiu
- “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy - Pediatric Surgery, Timisoara
| | - E. Boia
- “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy - Pediatric Surgery, Timisoara
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11
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Loehr AR, Timmerman DM, Liu M, Gillis AJ, Matthews M, Bloom JC, Nicholls PK, Page DC, Miller AD, Looijenga LH, Weiss RS. Analysis of a mouse germ cell tumor model establishes pluripotency-associated miRNAs as conserved serum biomarkers for germ cell cancer detection. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.09.556995. [PMID: 37745561 PMCID: PMC10515752 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.09.556995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Malignant testicular germ cells tumors (TGCTs) are the most common solid cancers in young men. Current TGCT diagnostics include conventional serum protein markers, but these lack the sensitivity and specificity to serve as accurate markers across all TGCT subtypes. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding regulatory RNAs and informative biomarkers for several diseases. In humans, miRNAs of the miR-371-373 cluster are detectable in the serum of patients with malignant TGCTs and outperform existing serum protein markers for both initial diagnosis and subsequent disease monitoring. We previously developed a genetically engineered mouse model featuring malignant mixed TGCTs consisting of pluripotent embryonal carcinoma (EC) and differentiated teratoma that, like the corresponding human malignancies, originate in utero and are highly chemosensitive. Here, we report that miRNAs in the mouse miR-290-295 cluster, homologs of the human miR-371-373 cluster, were detectable in serum from mice with malignant TGCTs but not from tumor-free control mice or mice with benign teratomas. miR-291-293 were expressed and secreted specifically by pluripotent EC cells, and expression was lost following differentiation induced by the drug thioridazine. Notably, miR-291-293 levels were significantly higher in the serum of pregnant dams carrying tumor-bearing fetuses compared to that of control dams. These findings reveal that expression of the miR-290-295 and miR-371-373 clusters in mice and humans, respectively, is a conserved feature of malignant TGCTs, further validating the mouse model as representative of the human disease. These data also highlight the potential of serum miR-371-373 assays to improve patient outcomes through early TGCT detection, possibly even prenatally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda R. Loehr
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY
| | | | - Michelle Liu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY
| | - Ad J.M. Gillis
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Melia Matthews
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY
| | | | | | - David C. Page
- Whitehead Institute, Cambridge, MA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Whitehead Institute, Cambridge, MA
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA
| | - Andrew D. Miller
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY
| | | | - Robert S. Weiss
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY
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12
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Krasic J, Skara Abramovic L, Himelreich Peric M, Vanjorek V, Gangur M, Zovko D, Malnar M, Masic S, Demirovic A, Juric B, Ulamec M, Coric M, Jezek D, Kulis T, Sincic N. Testicular Germ Cell Tumor Tissue Biomarker Analysis: A Comparison of Human Protein Atlas and Individual Testicular Germ Cell Tumor Component Immunohistochemistry. Cells 2023; 12:1841. [PMID: 37508506 PMCID: PMC10378501 DOI: 10.3390/cells12141841] [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: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The accurate management of testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) depends on identifying the individual histological tumor components. Currently available data on protein expression in TGCTs are limited. The human protein atlas (HPA) is a comprehensive resource presenting the expression and localization of proteins across tissue types and diseases. In this study, we have compared the data from the HPA with our in-house immunohistochemistry on core TGCT diagnostic genes to test reliability and potential biomarker genes. We have compared the protein expression of 15 genes in TGCT patients and non-neoplastic testicles with the data from the HPA. Protein expression was converted into diagnostic positivity. Our study discovered discrepancies in three of the six core TGCT diagnostic genes, POU5F1, KIT and SOX17 in HPA. DPPA3, CALCA and TDGF1 were presented as potential novel TGCT biomarkers. MGMT was confirmed while RASSF1 and PRSS21 were identified as biomarkers of healthy testicular tissue. Finally, SALL4, SOX17, RASSF1 and PRSS21 dysregulation in the surrounding testicular tissue with complete preserved spermatogenesis of TGCT patients was detected, a potential early sign of neoplastic transformation. We highlight the importance of a multidisciplinary collaborative approach to fully understand the protein landscape of human testis and its pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jure Krasic
- Croatian Institute for Brain Research, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Lucija Skara Abramovic
- Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Virology, Croatian Institute of Public Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marta Himelreich Peric
- Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Health Centre Zagreb-West, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Vedran Vanjorek
- Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marko Gangur
- Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Dragana Zovko
- Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marina Malnar
- Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Silvija Masic
- Ljudevit Jurak Clinical Department of Pathology and Cytology, University Clinical Hospital Center Sestre Milosrdnice, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Alma Demirovic
- Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Ljudevit Jurak Clinical Department of Pathology and Cytology, University Clinical Hospital Center Sestre Milosrdnice, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- School of Dental Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Bernardica Juric
- Ljudevit Jurak Clinical Department of Pathology and Cytology, University Clinical Hospital Center Sestre Milosrdnice, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Monika Ulamec
- Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Ljudevit Jurak Clinical Department of Pathology and Cytology, University Clinical Hospital Center Sestre Milosrdnice, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marijana Coric
- Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Pathology and Cytology, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Davor Jezek
- Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Tomislav Kulis
- Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Urology, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Nino Sincic
- Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Biology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
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13
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Petrovic M, Simic T, Djukic T, Radic T, Savic-Radojevic A, Zekovic M, Durutovic O, Janicic A, Milojevic B, Kajmakovic B, Zivkovic M, Bojanic N, Bumbasirevic U, Coric V. The Polymorphisms in GSTO Genes ( GSTO1 rs4925, GSTO2 rs156697, and GSTO2 rs2297235) Affect the Risk for Testicular Germ Cell Tumor Development: A Pilot Study. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1269. [PMID: 37374052 DOI: 10.3390/life13061269] [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: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Members of the omega class of glutathione transferases (GSTs), GSTO1, and GSTO2, catalyze a range of reduction reactions as a part of the antioxidant defense system. Polymorphisms of genes encoding antioxidant proteins and the resultant altered redox profile have already been associated with the increased risk for testicular germ cell cancer (GCT) development. The aim of this pilot study was to assess the individual, combined, haplotype, and cumulative effect of GSTO1rs4925, GSTO2rs156697, and GSTO2rs2297235 polymorphisms with the risk for testicular GCT development, in 88 patients and 96 matched controls, through logistic regression models. We found that carriers of the GSTO1*C/A*C/C genotype exhibited an increased risk for testicular GCT development. Significant association with increased risk of testicular GCT was observed in carriers of GSTO2rs2297235*A/G*G/G genotype, and in carriers of combined GSTO2rs156697*A/G*G/G and GSTO2rs2297235*A/G*G/G genotypes. Haplotype H7 (GSTO1rs4925*C/GSTO2rs2297235*G/GSTO2rs156697*G) exhibited higher risk of testicular GCT, however, without significant association (p > 0.05). Finally, 51% of testicular GCT patients were the carriers of all three risk-associated genotypes, with 2.5-fold increased cumulative risk. In conclusion, the results of this pilot study suggest that GSTO polymorphisms might affect the protective antioxidant activity of GSTO isoenzymes, therefore predisposing susceptible individuals toward higher risk for testicular GCT development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milos Petrovic
- Clinic of Urology, University Clinical Center of Serbia, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Tatjana Simic
- Institute of Medical and Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Department of Medical Sciences, Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Tatjana Djukic
- Institute of Medical and Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Tanja Radic
- Institute of Mental Health, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ana Savic-Radojevic
- Institute of Medical and Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Milica Zekovic
- Centre of Research Excellence in Nutrition and Metabolism, Institute for Medical Research, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Otas Durutovic
- Clinic of Urology, University Clinical Center of Serbia, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Aleksandar Janicic
- Clinic of Urology, University Clinical Center of Serbia, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Bogomir Milojevic
- Clinic of Urology, University Clinical Center of Serbia, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Boris Kajmakovic
- Clinic of Urology, University Clinical Center of Serbia, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Marko Zivkovic
- Clinic of Urology, University Clinical Center of Serbia, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Nebojsa Bojanic
- Clinic of Urology, University Clinical Center of Serbia, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Uros Bumbasirevic
- Clinic of Urology, University Clinical Center of Serbia, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Vesna Coric
- Institute of Medical and Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
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14
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Rohozneanu EF, Deac C, Căinap CI. A Systematic Review Investigating the Difference between 1 Cycle versus 2 Cycles of Adjuvant Chemotherapy in Stage I Testicular Germ Cell Cancers. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:916. [PMID: 37241148 PMCID: PMC10223662 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59050916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Standard care for stage I testicular germ cell cancers (seminomatous-STC or non-seminomatous-NSTC) is orchiectomy followed by active surveillance, 1 or 2 cycles of adjuvant chemotherapy, surgery or radiotherapy. The decision on the adjuvant therapeutic approach is guided by the associated risk factors of the patient and the potential related toxicity of the treatment. Currently, there is no consensus regarding the optimal number of adjuvant chemotherapy cycles. Although in terms of overall survival, there is no proven inconsistency regarding the number of cycles of adjuvant chemotherapy, and the rate of relapse may vary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuiela Florentina Rohozneanu
- Department of Oncology, The Oncology Institute “Prof. Dr. Ion Chiricuţă” Cluj-Napoca, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400015 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Department of Oncology, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ciprian Deac
- Department of Oncology, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Călin Ioan Căinap
- Department of Oncology, The Oncology Institute “Prof. Dr. Ion Chiricuţă” Cluj-Napoca, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400015 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Department of Oncology, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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15
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Burlibasa L, Nicu AT, Chifiriuc MC, Medar C, Petrescu A, Jinga V, Stoica I. H3 histone methylation landscape in male urogenital cancers: from molecular mechanisms to epigenetic biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1181764. [PMID: 37228649 PMCID: PMC10203431 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1181764] [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: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
During the last decades, male urogenital cancers (including prostate, renal, bladder and testicular cancers) have become one of the most frequently encountered malignancies affecting all ages. While their great variety has promoted the development of various diagnosis, treatment and monitoring strategies, some aspects such as the common involvement of epigenetic mechanisms are still not elucidated. Epigenetic processes have come into the spotlight in the past years as important players in the initiation and progression of tumors, leading to a plethora of studies highlighting their potential as biomarkers for diagnosis, staging, prognosis, and even as therapeutic targets. Thus, fostering research on the various epigenetic mechanisms and their roles in cancer remains a priority for the scientific community. This review focuses on one of the main epigenetic mechanisms, namely, the methylation of the histone H3 at various sites and its involvement in male urogenital cancers. This histone modification presents a great interest due to its modulatory effect on gene expression, leading either to activation (e.g., H3K4me3, H3K36me3) or repression (e.g., H3K27me3, H3K9me3). In the last few years, growing evidence has demonstrated the aberrant expression of enzymes that methylate/demethylate histone H3 in cancer and inflammatory diseases, that might contribute to the initiation and progression of such disorders. We highlight how these particular epigenetic modifications are emerging as potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers or targets for the treatment of urogenital cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mariana Carmen Chifiriuc
- Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
- Academy of Romanian Scientists, Bucharest, Romania
- Romanian Academy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Cosmin Medar
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, Bucharest, Romania
- Clinical Hospital “Prof. dr Theodor Burghele”, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Amelia Petrescu
- Clinical Hospital “Prof. dr Theodor Burghele”, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Viorel Jinga
- Academy of Romanian Scientists, Bucharest, Romania
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, Bucharest, Romania
- Clinical Hospital “Prof. dr Theodor Burghele”, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ileana Stoica
- Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
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16
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Cuevas-Estrada B, Montalvo-Casimiro M, Munguia-Garza P, Ríos-Rodríguez JA, González-Barrios R, Herrera LA. Breaking the Mold: Epigenetics and Genomics Approaches Addressing Novel Treatments and Chemoresponse in TGCT Patients. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24097873. [PMID: 37175579 PMCID: PMC10178517 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24097873] [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: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Testicular germ-cell tumors (TGCT) have been widely recognized for their outstanding survival rates, commonly attributed to their high sensitivity to cisplatin-based therapies. Despite this, a subset of patients develops cisplatin resistance, for whom additional therapeutic options are unsuccessful, and ~20% of them will die from disease progression at an early age. Several efforts have been made trying to find the molecular bases of cisplatin resistance. However, this phenomenon is still not fully understood, which has limited the development of efficient biomarkers and precision medicine approaches as an alternative that could improve the clinical outcomes of these patients. With the aim of providing an integrative landscape, we review the most recent genomic and epigenomic features attributed to chemoresponse in TGCT patients, highlighting how we can seek to combat cisplatin resistance through the same mechanisms by which TGCTs are particularly hypersensitive to therapy. In this regard, we explore ongoing treatment directions for resistant TGCT and novel targets to guide future clinical trials. Through our exploration of recent findings, we conclude that epidrugs are promising treatments that could help to restore cisplatin sensitivity in resistant tumors, shedding light on potential avenues for better prognosis for the benefit of the patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berenice Cuevas-Estrada
- Unidad de Investigación Biomédica en Cáncer, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología-Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, UNAM, Mexico City 14080, Mexico
| | - Michel Montalvo-Casimiro
- Unidad de Investigación Biomédica en Cáncer, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología-Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, UNAM, Mexico City 14080, Mexico
| | - Paulina Munguia-Garza
- Unidad de Investigación Biomédica en Cáncer, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología-Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, UNAM, Mexico City 14080, Mexico
| | - Juan Alberto Ríos-Rodríguez
- Unidad de Investigación Biomédica en Cáncer, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología-Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, UNAM, Mexico City 14080, Mexico
| | - Rodrigo González-Barrios
- Unidad de Investigación Biomédica en Cáncer, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología-Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, UNAM, Mexico City 14080, Mexico
| | - Luis A Herrera
- Unidad de Investigación Biomédica en Cáncer, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología-Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, UNAM, Mexico City 14080, Mexico
- Tecnológico de Monterrey, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Monterrey 64710, Mexico
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17
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Tan R, Wang F, Zhou Y, Huang Z, An Z, Xu Y. Neural functions in cancer: Data analyses and database construction. Front Genet 2023; 14:1062052. [PMID: 36861131 PMCID: PMC9968960 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1062052] [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: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have revealed that neural functions are involved in possibly every aspect of a cancer development, serving as bridges connecting microenvironmental stressors, activities of intracellular subsystems, and cell survival. Elucidation of the functional roles played by the neural system could provide the missing links in developing a systems-level understanding of cancer biology. However, the existing information is highly fragmented and scattered across the literature and internet databases, making it difficult for cancer researchers to use. We have conducted computational analyses of transcriptomic data of cancer tissues in TCGA and tissues of healthy organs in GTEx, aiming to demonstrate how the functional roles by the neural genes could be derived and what non-neural functions they are associated with, across different stages of 26 cancer types. Several novel discoveries are made, including i) the expressions of certain neural genes can predict the prognosis of a cancer patient; ii) cancer metastasis tends to involve specific neural functions; iii) cancers of low survival rates involve more neural interactions than those with high survival rates; iv) more malignant cancers involve more complex neural functions; and v) neural functions are probably induced to alleviate stresses and help the associated cancer cells to survive. A database, called NGC, is developed for organizing such derived neural functions and associations, along with gene expressions and functional annotations collected from public databases, aiming to provide an integrated and publicly available information resource to enable cancer researchers to take full advantage of the relevant information in their research, facilitated by tools provided by NGC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renbo Tan
- Key Laboratory of Symbolic Computation and knowledge Engineering, College of Computer Science and Technology, Jilin University, Changchun, China,Cancer Systems Biology Center, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China,*Correspondence: Renbo Tan, ; Ying Xu,
| | - Feilong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Symbolic Computation and knowledge Engineering, College of Computer Science and Technology, Jilin University, Changchun, China,Cancer Systems Biology Center, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yi Zhou
- Computational Systems Biology Lab, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, And Institute of Bioinformatics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
| | - Zhenyu Huang
- Key Laboratory of Symbolic Computation and knowledge Engineering, College of Computer Science and Technology, Jilin University, Changchun, China,Cancer Systems Biology Center, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Zheng An
- Computational Systems Biology Lab, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, And Institute of Bioinformatics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
| | - Ying Xu
- Cancer Systems Biology Center, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China,Computational Systems Biology Lab, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, And Institute of Bioinformatics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States,*Correspondence: Renbo Tan, ; Ying Xu,
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Xiu W, Pang J, Hu Y, Shi H. Immune-related mechanisms and immunotherapy in extragonadal germ cell tumors. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1145788. [PMID: 37138865 PMCID: PMC10149945 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1145788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose of review Extragonadal germ cell tumors (EGCTs) are relatively rare tumors, accounting for 1%-5% of all GCTs. In this review, we summarize the current research progress regarding the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of EGCTs from an immunology perspective. Recent findings The histological origin of EGCTs is related to a gonadal origin, but they are located outside the gonad. They show great variation in morphology and can occur in the cranium, mediastinum, sacrococcygeal bone, and other areas. The pathogenesis of EGCTs is poorly understood, and their differential diagnosis is extensive and challenging. EGCT behavior varies greatly according to patient age, histological subtype, and clinical stage. Summary This review provides ideas for the future application of immunology in the fight against such diseases, which is a hot topic currently.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weigang Xiu
- 1Division of Thoracic Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiyun Pang
- 1Division of Thoracic Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yang Hu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Yang Hu, ; Huashan Shi,
| | - Huashan Shi
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Yang Hu, ; Huashan Shi,
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19
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Ozgun G, Nichols C, Kollmannsberger C, Nappi L. Genomic features of mediastinal germ cell tumors: a narrative review. MEDIASTINUM (HONG KONG, CHINA) 2022; 6:34. [PMID: 36582975 PMCID: PMC9792832 DOI: 10.21037/med-22-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Germ cell tumors (GCTs) are uncommon malignancies generally originating from gonads. However, about 5% of GCTs arise outside the gonad (extragonadal), of which 80% develop from the mediastinum. While the prognosis of seminomas is not affected by the gonadal or extragonadal primary location, the prognosis of nonseminoma primary mediastinal GCTs (NS-PMGCTs) is poor, compared to its gonadal counterpart with an estimated 5-year overall survival of about 50%. The current treatments are sub-optimal to increase the cure rate of these rare GCTs. Therefore, molecular insights into these tumors would be valuable to develop novel therapies. The main objective of this review is to describe and dissect the genomic features associated with primary mediastinal GCTs (PMGCTs), highlighting the more frequent genomic alterations and their correlation with clinical outcomes. METHODS We conducted a narrative review of the English literature available in PubMed and Google Scholar between 1982 and 2021, including meta-analyses, systematic reviews, case series and case reports regarding the genomic and clinical features of PMGCTs. We analyzed the available data to describe the molecular characteristics of PMGCTs compared to testicular GCTs (TGCTs), highlighting the most relevant biological and prognostic factors. KEY CONTENT AND FINDINGS The high percentage of platinum resistance, the unique association with hematologic malignancies (HMs) and other malignancies, the higher prevalence of P53 mutations, and a distinct genomic landscape characterize this rare disease. CONCLUSIONS Although some studies have unveiled recurrent molecular alterations in PMGCTs, few are particularly suitable for targeted therapy. Due to the rarity of PMGCTs, data sharing and the creation of an international consortium would be helpful to have a better understanding of the molecular drivers of these tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guliz Ozgun
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, British Columbia, Canada
| | | | | | - Lucia Nappi
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Medical Oncology, BC Cancer, British Columbia, Canada
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20
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Lesko P, Chovanec M, Mego M. Biomarkers of disease recurrence in stage I testicular germ cell tumours. Nat Rev Urol 2022; 19:637-658. [PMID: 36028719 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-022-00624-y] [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: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Stage I testicular cancer is a disease restricted to the testicle. After orchiectomy, patients are considered to be without disease; however, the tumour is prone to relapse in ~4-50% of patients. Current predictive markers of relapse, which are tumour size and invasion to rete testis (in seminoma) or lymphovascular invasion (in non-seminoma), have limited clinical utility and are unable to correctly predict relapse in a substantial proportion of patients. Adjuvant therapeutic strategies based on available biomarkers can lead to overtreatment of 50-85% of patients. Discovery and implementation of novel biomarkers into treatment decision making will help to reduce the burden of adjuvant treatments and improve patient selection for adjuvant therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Lesko
- 2nd Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University and National Cancer Institute, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Michal Chovanec
- 2nd Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University and National Cancer Institute, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Michal Mego
- 2nd Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University and National Cancer Institute, Bratislava, Slovakia.
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21
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Medvedev KE, Savelyeva AV, Chen KS, Bagrodia A, Jia L, Grishin NV. Integrated Molecular Analysis Reveals 2 Distinct Subtypes of Pure Seminoma of the Testis. Cancer Inform 2022; 21:11769351221132634. [PMID: 36330202 PMCID: PMC9623390 DOI: 10.1177/11769351221132634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCT) are the most common solid malignancy in adolescent and young men, with a rising incidence over the past 20 years. Overall, TGCTs are second in terms of the average life years lost per person dying of cancer, and clinical therapeutics without adverse long-term side effects are lacking. Platinum-based regimens for TGCTs have heterogeneous outcomes even within the same histotype that frequently leads to under- and over-treatment. Understanding of molecular differences that lead to diverse outcomes of TGCT patients may improve current treatment approaches. Seminoma is the most common subtype of TGCTs, which can either be pure or present in combination with other histotypes. Methods Here we conducted a computational study of 64 pure seminoma samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas, applied consensus clustering approach to their transcriptomic data and revealed 2 clinically relevant seminoma subtypes: seminoma subtype 1 and 2. Results Our analysis identified significant differences in pluripotency stage, activity of double stranded DNA breaks repair mechanisms, rates of loss of heterozygosity, and expression of lncRNA responsible for cisplatin resistance between the subtypes. Seminoma subtype 1 is characterized by higher pluripotency state, while subtype 2 showed attributes of reprograming into non-seminomatous TGCT. The seminoma subtypes we identified may provide a molecular underpinning for variable responses to chemotherapy and radiation. Conclusion Translating our findings into clinical care may help improve risk stratification of seminoma, decrease overtreatment rates, and increase long-term quality of life for TGCT survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirill E Medvedev
- Department of Biophysics, University of
Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Anna V Savelyeva
- Department of Urology, University of
Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Kenneth S Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of
Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Children’s Medical Center Research
Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Aditya Bagrodia
- Department of Urology, University of
Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Department of Urology, University of
California San Diego Health, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Liwei Jia
- Department of Pathology, University of
Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Nick V Grishin
- Department of Biophysics, University of
Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University
of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
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22
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García-Andrade F, Vigueras-Villaseñor RM, Chávez-Saldaña MD, Rojas-Castañeda JC, Bahena-Ocampo IU, Aréchaga-Ocampo E, Díaz-Chávez J, Landero-Huerta DA. The Role of microRNAs in the Gonocyte Theory as Target of Malignancy: Looking for Potential Diagnostic Biomarkers. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231810526. [PMID: 36142439 PMCID: PMC9505168 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810526] [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: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Some pediatric patients with cryptorchidism preserve cells with gonocyte characteristics beyond their differentiation period, which could support the theory of the gonocyte as a target for malignancy in the development of testicular neoplasia. One of the key molecules in gonocyte malignancy is represented by microRNAs (miRNAs). The goal of this review is to give an overview of miRNAs, a class of small non-coding RNAs that participate in the regulation of gene expression. We also aim to review the crucial role of several miRNAs that have been further described in the regulation of gonocyte differentiation to spermatogonia, which, when transformed, could give rise to germ cell neoplasia in situ, a precursor lesion to testicular germ cell tumors. Finally, the potential use of miRNAs as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in testicular neoplasia is addressed, due to their specificity and sensitivity compared to conventional markers, as well as their applications in therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabiola García-Andrade
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Ciudad de México 04530, Mexico
- Posgrado en Biología Experimental, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana Unidad Iztapalapa, Ciudad de México 09310, Mexico
| | - Rosa María Vigueras-Villaseñor
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Ciudad de México 04530, Mexico
- Correspondence: (R.M.V.-V.); (D.A.L.-H.); Tel.: +52-(55)-1084-0900 (ext. 1453) (R.M.V.-V. & D.A.L.-H.); Fax: +52-(55)-1084-5533 (R.M.V.-V. & D.A.L.-H.)
| | | | | | - Iván Uriel Bahena-Ocampo
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana Unidad Iztapalapa, Ciudad de México 09310, Mexico
| | - Elena Aréchaga-Ocampo
- Departamento de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana Unidad Cuajimalpa, Ciudad de México 05348, Mexico
| | - José Díaz-Chávez
- Instituto Nacional de Cancerología, Ciudad de México 14080, Mexico
| | - Daniel Adrian Landero-Huerta
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Ciudad de México 04530, Mexico
- Correspondence: (R.M.V.-V.); (D.A.L.-H.); Tel.: +52-(55)-1084-0900 (ext. 1453) (R.M.V.-V. & D.A.L.-H.); Fax: +52-(55)-1084-5533 (R.M.V.-V. & D.A.L.-H.)
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23
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Krasic J, Skara L, Bojanac AK, Ulamec M, Jezek D, Kulis T, Sincic N. The utility of cfDNA in TGCT patient management: a systematic review. Ther Adv Med Oncol 2022; 14:17588359221090365. [PMID: 35656387 PMCID: PMC9152191 DOI: 10.1177/17588359221090365] [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: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) are the most common young male malignancy with a steadily rising incidence. Standard clinical practice is radical orchidectomy of suspicious lumps followed by histopathological diagnosis and tumor subtyping. This practice can lead to complications and quality of life issues for the patients. Liquid biopsies, especially cell-free DNA (cfDNA), promised to be true surrogates for tissue biopsies, which are considered dangerous to perform in cases of testicular tumors. In this study, we have performed a systematic review on the potential of cfDNA in TGCT patient management, its potential challenges in translation to clinical application and possible approaches in further research. Materials & Methods: The review was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines on EuropePMC and PUBMED electronic databases, with the last update being on October 21, 2021. Due to the high heterogeneity in identified research articles, we have performed an overview of their efficacy. Results: Eight original articles have been identified on cfDNA in TGCT patients published from 2004 to 2021, of which six had more than one TGCT patient enrolled and were included in the final analysis. Three studies investigated cfDNA methylation, one has investigated mutations in cfDNA, two have investigated cfDNA amount, and one has investigated cfDNA integrity in TGCT. The sensitivity of cfDNA for TGCT was found to be higher than in serum tumor markers and lower than miR-371a-3p, with comparable specificity. cfDNA methylation analysis has managed to accurately detect teratoma in TGCT patients. Conclusion: Potential challenges in cfDNA application to TGCT patient management were identified. The challenges relating to the biology of TGCT with its low mutational burden and low cfDNA amounts in blood plasma make next-generation sequencing (NGS) methods especially challenging. We have also proposed possible approaches to help find clinical application, including a focus on cfDNA methylation analysis, and potentially solving the challenge of teratoma detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jure Krasic
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Group for Research on Epigenetic Biomarkers (Epimark), School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Lucija Skara
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Group for Research on Epigenetic Biomarkers (Epimark), School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ana Katusic Bojanac
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Monika Ulamec
- Group for Research on Epigenetic Biomarkers (Epimark), School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Ljudevit Jurak Clinical Department of Pathology and Cytology, University Clinical Hospital Center Sestre Milosrdnice, Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Davor Jezek
- Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Tomislav Kulis
- Group for Research on Epigenetic Biomarkers (Epimark), School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Urology, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Nino Sincic
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Šalata 3, Zagreb, 10 000, Croatia
- Group for Research on Epigenetic Biomarkers (Epimark), School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Šalata 3, Zagreb, 10 000, Croatia
- Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Šalata 3, Zagreb, 10 000, Croatia
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24
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Yawer A, Sychrová E, Raška J, Babica P, Sovadinová I. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals affect sertoli TM4 cell functionality through dysregulation of gap junctional intercellular communication in vitro. Food Chem Toxicol 2022; 164:113004. [PMID: 35413382 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2022.113004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 03/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The frequencies of adverse outcomes associated with male reproductive health, including infertility and testicular cancer, are increasing. These adverse trends are partially attributed to increased exposure to environmental agents such as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). This study addresses effects on EDCs on adjacent prepubertal Sertoli TM4 cells, specifically on 1) testicular gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC), one of the hallmarks of non-genotoxic carcinogenicity, 2) GJIC building blocks connexins (Cx), and 3) mitogen-activated protein kinases MAPKs. We selected eight representatives of EDCs: bisphenol A and organochlorine chemicals such as pesticides dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane, lindane, methoxychlor, and vinclozolin, industrial chemical 2,2',4,4',5,5'-hexachlorobiphenyl, and components of personal care products, triclocarban and triclosan. EDCs rapidly dysregulated GJIC in Sertoli TM4 cells mainly via MAPK p38 and/or Erk1/2/pathways by the intermediate hyper- or de-phosphorylation of Cx43 (Ser368, Ser282) and translocalization of Cx43 from the plasma membrane, suggesting disturbed intracellular trafficking of Cx43 protein. Surprisingly, EDCs did not rapidly activate MAPK Erk1/2 or p38; on the contrary, TCC and TCS decreased their activity (phosphorylation). Our results indicate that EDCs might disrupt testicular homeostasis and development via testicular GJIC, junctional and non-junctional functions of Cx43 and MAPK-signalling pathways in Sertoli cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Affiefa Yawer
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlarska 2, Brno, Czech Republic.
| | - Eliška Sychrová
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlarska 2, Brno, Czech Republic.
| | - Jan Raška
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlarska 2, Brno, Czech Republic.
| | - Pavel Babica
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlarska 2, Brno, Czech Republic.
| | - Iva Sovadinová
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlarska 2, Brno, Czech Republic.
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25
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Nicu AT, Medar C, Chifiriuc MC, Gradisteanu Pircalabioru G, Burlibasa L. Epigenetics and Testicular Cancer: Bridging the Gap Between Fundamental Biology and Patient Care. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:861995. [PMID: 35465311 PMCID: PMC9023878 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.861995] [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: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Testicular cancer is the most common solid tumor affecting young males. Most testicular cancers are testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs), which are divided into seminomas (SGCTs) and non-seminomatous testicular germ cell tumors (NSGCTs). During their development, primordial germ cells (PGCs) undergo epigenetic modifications and any disturbances in their pattern might lead to cancer development. The present study provides a comprehensive review of the epigenetic mechanisms–DNA methylation, histone post-translational modifications, bivalent marks, non-coding RNA–associated with TGCT susceptibility, initiation, progression and response to chemotherapy. Another important purpose of this review is to highlight the recent investigations regarding the identification and development of epigenetic biomarkers as powerful tools for the diagnostic, prognostic and especially for epigenetic-based therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina-Teodora Nicu
- Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Genetics, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Cosmin Medar
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, Clinical Hospital “Prof. dr Theodor Burghele”, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mariana Carmen Chifiriuc
- Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
- Research Institute of University of Bucharest (ICUB), Bucharest, Romania
- Academy of Romanian Scientists, Bucharest, Romania
- Romanian Academy, Bucharest, Romania
| | | | - Liliana Burlibasa
- Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Genetics, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
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26
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Diverse Roles and Targets of miRNA in the Pathogenesis of Testicular Germ Cell Tumour. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14051190. [PMID: 35267498 PMCID: PMC8909779 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14051190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumour (TGCT) is the most common cancer type among young adults in many parts of the world. Although the pathogenesis of TGCT is not well understood, the involvement of heritable components is evident, and the risk is polygenic. Genome-wide association studies have so far found 78 susceptibility loci for TGCT, and many of the loci are in non-coding regions indicating the involvement of non-coding RNAs in TGCT pathogenesis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), a class of non-coding RNAs, have emerged as important gene regulators at the post-transcriptional level. They are crucial in controlling many cellular processes, such as proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis, and an aberrant miRNA expression may contribute to the pathogenesis of several cancers, including TGCT. In support of this notion, several studies reported differential expression of miRNAs in TGCTs. We previously demonstrated that miRNAs were the most common group of small non-coding RNAs in TGCTs, and several functional studies of miRNAs in TGCTs suggest that they may act as either oncogene or tumour suppressors. Moreover, individual miRNA targets and downstream pathways in the context of TGCT development have been explored. In this review, we will focus on the diverse roles and targets of miRNAs in TGCT pathogenesis.
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27
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Bumbasirevic U, Bojanic N, Pljesa-Ercegovac M, Zivkovic M, Djukic T, Zekovic M, Milojevic B, Kajmakovic B, Janicic A, Simic T, Coric V. The Polymorphisms of Genes Encoding Catalytic Antioxidant Proteins Modulate the Susceptibility and Progression of Testicular Germ Cell Tumor. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14041068. [PMID: 35205816 PMCID: PMC8870690 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14041068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Testicular cancer is the most common malignancy in the population of young and reproductively active men. The risk factors for its occurrence are not fully elucidated. Undescended testicle remains the main risk factor; however, more precise molecular studies associate genetic variations with susceptibility to testicular tumor development and progression. In this study, we found that specific variations in genes encoding antioxidant defense proteins confer risks of testicular cancer development and progression and, therefore, helps to identify subjects at higher risk, as well as those requiring additional diagnostics and more intensive forms of treatment. Abstract The simultaneous analysis of redox biomarkers and polymorphisms encoding for regulatory and catalytic antioxidant proteins was performed in order to evaluate their potential role in the development of testicular germ cell tumor (GCT), as well as the progression of the disease. NRF2 (rs6721961), GSTM3 (rs1332018), SOD2 (rs4880) and GPX3 (rs8177412) polymorphisms were assessed in 88 patients with testicular GCT (52 with seminoma) and 88 age-matched controls. The plasma levels of 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), thiol groups and the plasma activity of glutathione peroxidase were measured. A significant association between variant GPX3*TC+CC genotype and risk of overall testicular GCT, as well as seminoma development, was found. Moreover, carriers of variant SOD2*TT genotype were at almost 3-fold increased risk of seminoma development. Interestingly, combined SOD2*TT/GPX3*TC+CC genotype conferred a 7-fold higher risk for testicular GCT development. Finally, variant GSTM3*AC+CC genotype was associated with a higher risk for the development of advanced diseased. The presence of assessed genetic variants was not associated with significantly higher levels of redox biomarkers in both testicular GCT patients, as well as in those diagnosed with seminoma. In conclusion, the polymorphic expression of certain antioxidant enzymes might affect susceptibility toward testicular GCT development, as well as the progression of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uros Bumbasirevic
- Clinic of Urology, University Clinical Center of Serbia, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (U.B.); (N.B.); (M.Z.); (B.M.); (B.K.); (A.J.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (M.P.-E.); (T.D.)
| | - Nebojsa Bojanic
- Clinic of Urology, University Clinical Center of Serbia, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (U.B.); (N.B.); (M.Z.); (B.M.); (B.K.); (A.J.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (M.P.-E.); (T.D.)
| | - Marija Pljesa-Ercegovac
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (M.P.-E.); (T.D.)
- Institute of Medical and Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Marko Zivkovic
- Clinic of Urology, University Clinical Center of Serbia, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (U.B.); (N.B.); (M.Z.); (B.M.); (B.K.); (A.J.)
| | - Tatjana Djukic
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (M.P.-E.); (T.D.)
- Institute of Medical and Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Milica Zekovic
- Centre of Research Excellence in Nutrition and Metabolism, Institute for Medical Research, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Bogomir Milojevic
- Clinic of Urology, University Clinical Center of Serbia, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (U.B.); (N.B.); (M.Z.); (B.M.); (B.K.); (A.J.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (M.P.-E.); (T.D.)
| | - Boris Kajmakovic
- Clinic of Urology, University Clinical Center of Serbia, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (U.B.); (N.B.); (M.Z.); (B.M.); (B.K.); (A.J.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (M.P.-E.); (T.D.)
| | - Aleksandar Janicic
- Clinic of Urology, University Clinical Center of Serbia, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (U.B.); (N.B.); (M.Z.); (B.M.); (B.K.); (A.J.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (M.P.-E.); (T.D.)
| | - Tatjana Simic
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (M.P.-E.); (T.D.)
- Institute of Medical and Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Department of Medical Sciences, Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Correspondence: (T.S.); (V.C.); Tel.: +381-113643250 (T.S.); +381-113643273 (V.C.)
| | - Vesna Coric
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (M.P.-E.); (T.D.)
- Institute of Medical and Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Correspondence: (T.S.); (V.C.); Tel.: +381-113643250 (T.S.); +381-113643273 (V.C.)
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Raos D, Abramović I, Tomić M, Vrtarić A, Kuliš T, Ćorić M, Ulamec M, Katušić Bojanac A, Ježek D, Sinčić N. CNV Hotspots in Testicular Seminoma Tissue and Seminal Plasma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 14:189. [PMID: 35008352 PMCID: PMC8750740 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14010189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Seminoma (SE) is the most frequent type of testicular tumour, affecting predominantly young men. Early detection and diagnosis of SE could significantly improve life quality and reproductive health after diagnosis and treatment. Copy number variation (CNV) has already been associated with various cancers as well as SE. In this study, we selected four genes (MAGEC2, NANOG, RASSF1A, and KITLG) for CNV analysis in genomic DNA (gDNA), which are located on chromosomes susceptible to gains, and whose aberrant expression was already detected in SE. Furthermore, CNV was analysed in cell-free DNA (cfDNA) from seminal plasma. Analysis was performed by droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR) on gDNA from SE and nonmalignant testicular tissue. Seminal plasma cfDNA from SE patients before and after surgery was analysed, as well as from healthy volunteers. The CNV hotspot in gDNA from SE tissue was detected for the first time in all analysed genes, and for two genes, NANOG and KITLG it was reflected in cfDNA from seminal plasma. Although clinical value is yet to be determined, presented data emphasize a potential use of CNV as a potential SE biomarker from a liquid biopsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dora Raos
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (D.R.); (I.A.); (M.Ć.); (A.K.B.)
- Scientific Group for Research on Epigenetic Biomarkers, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (T.K.); (M.U.)
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Irena Abramović
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (D.R.); (I.A.); (M.Ć.); (A.K.B.)
- Scientific Group for Research on Epigenetic Biomarkers, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (T.K.); (M.U.)
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Miroslav Tomić
- Department of Urology, University Clinical Hospital Centre “Sestre Milosrdnice”, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Alen Vrtarić
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, University Clinical Hospital Centre “Sestre Milosrdnice”, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Tomislav Kuliš
- Scientific Group for Research on Epigenetic Biomarkers, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (T.K.); (M.U.)
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
- Department of Urology, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marijana Ćorić
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (D.R.); (I.A.); (M.Ć.); (A.K.B.)
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
- Department of Pathology and Cytology, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Monika Ulamec
- Scientific Group for Research on Epigenetic Biomarkers, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (T.K.); (M.U.)
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
- Ljudevit Jurak Clinical Department of Pathology and Cytology, University Clinical Hospital Centre “Sestre Milosrdnice”, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Pathology, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ana Katušić Bojanac
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (D.R.); (I.A.); (M.Ć.); (A.K.B.)
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Davor Ježek
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
- Department of Histology and Embryology, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Nino Sinčić
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (D.R.); (I.A.); (M.Ć.); (A.K.B.)
- Scientific Group for Research on Epigenetic Biomarkers, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (T.K.); (M.U.)
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
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Swartz SJ, Morimoto LM, Whitehead TP, DeRouen MC, Ma X, Wang R, Wiemels JL, McGlynn KA, Gunier R, Metayer C. Proximity to endocrine-disrupting pesticides and risk of testicular germ cell tumors (TGCT) among adolescents: A population-based case-control study in California. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2021; 239:113881. [PMID: 34839102 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2021.113881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The incidence of testicular germ cell tumors (TGCT) is increasing steadily in the United States, particularly among Latinos. TGCT is thought to be initiated in utero and exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals, suspected contributors to TGCT pathogenesis, during this critical developmental period may contribute to the rise. OBJECTIVES To assess the relationship between fetal exposure to agricultural endocrine-disrupting pesticides (EDPs) and TGCT risk among adolescents in a diverse population in California. METHODS We conducted a registry-based case-control study of TGCT. Cases, diagnosed between 1997 and 2011, were 15-19 years of age (n = 381). Controls were matched on birth year and race/ethnicity (n = 762). Quantities (kilograms) of 33 pesticides applied within 3 km and 1 km radii of each individual's address before birth were estimated using the Pesticide Use Reporting database. Odds ratios (OR), 95% confidence intervals (CI), and population attributable risk (PAR) were calculated for each EDP (using log-2 transformed values). Risk models considered race/ethnicity, birth year, and neighborhood socioeconomic status. RESULTS A doubling of nearby acephate applications (3 km and 1 km radii) and malathion applications (1 km radius) was associated with increased risks of TGCT among Latinos only (OR = 1.09; 95% CI:1.01-1.17; 1.30; 95% CI:1.08-1.57, and 1.19; 95% CI:1.01-1.39, respectively), whereas application of carbaryl within a 3 km radius increased TGCT risk in non-Latinos only (OR = 1.14, 95% CI:1.01-1.28). We estimate that acephate was associated with approximately 10% of the TGCT PAR, malathion with 3% and carbaryl with 1%. CONCLUSIONS TGCT among adolescents in California was associated with prenatal residential proximity to acephate and malathion among Latinos, and with carbaryl among non-Latinos. These results suggest that the rise in TGCT risk among Latinos may be associated with exposure to these pesticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott J Swartz
- Joint Medical Program, University of California, Berkeley/San Francisco, Berkeley, CA, USA; School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Libby M Morimoto
- Division of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Todd P Whitehead
- Division of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Mindy C DeRouen
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Xiaomei Ma
- Department of Chronic Disease Epidemiology, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Rong Wang
- Department of Chronic Disease Epidemiology, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Joseph L Wiemels
- Center for Genetic Epidemiology, Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Katherine A McGlynn
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Robert Gunier
- Division of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Catherine Metayer
- Division of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA.
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Fatma H, Siddique HR, Maurya SK. The multiple faces of NANOG in cancer: a therapeutic target to chemosensitize therapy-resistant cancers. Epigenomics 2021; 13:1885-1900. [PMID: 34693722 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2021-0228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The transcription factor NANOG regulates self-renewal and pluripotency in embryonic cells, and its downregulation leads to cell differentiation. Recent studies have linked upregulation of NANOG in various cancers and the regulation of expression of different molecules, and vice versa, to induce proliferation, metastasis, invasion and chemoresistance. Thus NANOG is an oncogene that functions by inducing stem cells' circuitries and heterogeneity in cancers. Understanding NANOG's role in various cancers may lead to it becoming a therapeutic target to halt cancer progression. The NANOG network can also be targeted to resensitize resistant cancer cells to conventional therapies. The current review focuses on NANOG regulation in the various signaling networks leading to cancer progression and chemoresistance, and highlights the therapeutic aspect of targeting NANOG in various cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Homa Fatma
- Molecular Cancer Genetics & Translational Research Lab, Section of Genetics, Department of Zoology, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, 202002, India
| | - Hifzur R Siddique
- Molecular Cancer Genetics & Translational Research Lab, Section of Genetics, Department of Zoology, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, 202002, India
| | - Santosh K Maurya
- Molecular Cancer Genetics & Translational Research Lab, Section of Genetics, Department of Zoology, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, 202002, India
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Katabathina VS, Vargas-Zapata D, Monge RA, Nazarullah A, Ganeshan D, Tammisetti V, Prasad SR. Testicular Germ Cell Tumors: Classification, Pathologic Features, Imaging Findings, and Management. Radiographics 2021; 41:1698-1716. [PMID: 34597218 DOI: 10.1148/rg.2021210024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) demonstrate a wide variety of histopathologic, genetic, pathogenetic, and immunocytochemical characteristics and various clinical-biologic profiles and prognoses. Most TGCTs arise from an intratubular precursor cell referred to as germ cell neoplasia in situ (GCNIS), which is an embryonic germ cell with the potential to differentiate into a plethora of embryonic and extraembryonic lineages. Advances in pathologic examination and genetics paved the way for the 2016 World Health Organization (WHO) classification system, which recognizes two pathogenetically distinct groups of TGCTs. Although postpubertal tumors originate from GCNIS, almost all prepubertal tumors belong to the non-GCNIS category. Molecular testing for chromosome 12p amplification helps to distinguish the two tumor categories. Imaging techniques such as US, CT, MRI, and fluorine 18 (18F)-fluorodeoxyglucose PET/CT are pivotal to the diagnosis and staging, evaluation of complications and treatment response, and long-term surveillance of TGCTs. In addition, select MRI findings may help to differentiate a seminoma from a nonseminomatous mixed TGCT. Accurate diagnosis of TGCTs has therapeutic and prognostic implications. Although seminomas show exquisite response to chemotherapy and radiation therapy, postpubertal teratomas are highly resistant to both. The 2016 WHO classification system introduced changes in the diagnosis and management of TGCTs, including the development of new treatment and follow-up guidelines. Radiologists play an essential role in the optimal treatment of patients with TGCTs. Online supplemental material is available for this article. ©RSNA, 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Venkata S Katabathina
- From the Departments of Radiology (V.S.K., D.V.Z., R.A.M.) and Pathology (A.N.), University of Texas Health at San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Dr, San Antonio, TX 78229; Department of Radiology, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Tex (D.G., S.R.P.); and Department of Radiology, University of Texas Health at Houston, Houston, Tex (V.T.)
| | - Daniel Vargas-Zapata
- From the Departments of Radiology (V.S.K., D.V.Z., R.A.M.) and Pathology (A.N.), University of Texas Health at San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Dr, San Antonio, TX 78229; Department of Radiology, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Tex (D.G., S.R.P.); and Department of Radiology, University of Texas Health at Houston, Houston, Tex (V.T.)
| | - Roberto A Monge
- From the Departments of Radiology (V.S.K., D.V.Z., R.A.M.) and Pathology (A.N.), University of Texas Health at San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Dr, San Antonio, TX 78229; Department of Radiology, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Tex (D.G., S.R.P.); and Department of Radiology, University of Texas Health at Houston, Houston, Tex (V.T.)
| | - Alia Nazarullah
- From the Departments of Radiology (V.S.K., D.V.Z., R.A.M.) and Pathology (A.N.), University of Texas Health at San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Dr, San Antonio, TX 78229; Department of Radiology, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Tex (D.G., S.R.P.); and Department of Radiology, University of Texas Health at Houston, Houston, Tex (V.T.)
| | - Dhakshina Ganeshan
- From the Departments of Radiology (V.S.K., D.V.Z., R.A.M.) and Pathology (A.N.), University of Texas Health at San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Dr, San Antonio, TX 78229; Department of Radiology, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Tex (D.G., S.R.P.); and Department of Radiology, University of Texas Health at Houston, Houston, Tex (V.T.)
| | - Varaha Tammisetti
- From the Departments of Radiology (V.S.K., D.V.Z., R.A.M.) and Pathology (A.N.), University of Texas Health at San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Dr, San Antonio, TX 78229; Department of Radiology, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Tex (D.G., S.R.P.); and Department of Radiology, University of Texas Health at Houston, Houston, Tex (V.T.)
| | - Srinivasa R Prasad
- From the Departments of Radiology (V.S.K., D.V.Z., R.A.M.) and Pathology (A.N.), University of Texas Health at San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Dr, San Antonio, TX 78229; Department of Radiology, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Tex (D.G., S.R.P.); and Department of Radiology, University of Texas Health at Houston, Houston, Tex (V.T.)
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32
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In Utero Programming of Testicular Cancer. J Dev Biol 2021; 9:jdb9030035. [PMID: 34564084 PMCID: PMC8482261 DOI: 10.3390/jdb9030035] [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: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
It is well established that the intrauterine biological environment plays important roles in fetal development. In this review, we re-visit the hypothesis that testicular germ cell cancer (TGCC), especially in adolescents and young adults, has been programmed in utero. The origin for extreme in utero environments is mostly maternal driven and may be due to nutritional, physical and psychological stressful conditions that alter the optimal molecular and biophysical in utero environments. Moreover, precursors for TGCC may originate as early as during fertilization or implantation of the blastocyst. Further investigations of human developmental biology, both in vivo and in vitro, are needed in order to establish better understanding of in utero programming of future wellbeing or diseases.
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Fraser BA, Miller K, Trigg NA, Smith ND, Western PS, Nixon B, Aitken RJ. A novel approach to nonsurgical sterilization; application of menadione-modified gonocyte-targeting M13 bacteriophage for germ cell ablation in utero. Pharmacol Res Perspect 2021; 8:e00654. [PMID: 32930516 PMCID: PMC7507010 DOI: 10.1002/prp2.654] [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: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
There remains a compelling need for the development of nonsurgical sterilizing agents to expand the fertility management options for both domestic and feral animal species. We hypothesize that an efficacious sterilization approach would be to selectively ablate nonrenewable cell types that are essential for reproduction, such as the undifferentiated gonocytes within the embryonic gonad. Here, we report a novel strategy to achieve this goal centered on the use of a chemically modified M13 bacteriophage to effect the targeted delivery of menadione, a redox‐cycling naphthoquinone, to mouse gonocytes. Panning of the M13 random peptide ‘phage display library proved effective in the isolation of gonocyte‐specific targeting clones. One such clone was modified via N‐succinimidyl‐S‐acetylthioacetate (SATA) linkage to the N‐terminus of the major PVIII capsid protein. Subsequent deacetylation of the SATA was undertaken to expose a thiol group capable of reacting with menadione through Michael addition. This chemical modification was confirmed using UV spectrophotometry. In proof‐of‐concept experiments we applied the modified ‘phage to primary cultures of fetal germ cells and induced, an approximately, 60% reduction in the viability of the target cell population. These studies pave the way for in vivo application of chemically modified M13 bacteriophage in order to achieve the selective ablation of nonrenewable cell types in the reproductive system, thereby providing a novel nonsurgical approach the regulation of fertility in target species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara A Fraser
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Kasey Miller
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Natalie A Trigg
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Nathan D Smith
- Analytical and Biomolecular Research Facility, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Patrick S Western
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Brett Nixon
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Robert J Aitken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Health and Medicine, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
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Tao K, Sun Y, Chao Y, Xing L, Leng L, Zhou D, Zhu W, Fan L. β-estradiol promotes the growth of primary human fetal spermatogonial stem cells via the induction of stem cell factor in Sertoli cells. J Assist Reprod Genet 2021; 38:2481-2490. [PMID: 34050447 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-021-02240-y] [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: 02/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mammalian spermatogenesis is responsible for male fertility and is supported by the self-renewal and differentiation of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). Sertoli cells provide a supportive microenvironment for SSCs, in part by the production of stem cell factor (SCF), which is a potent regulator of spermatogonia proliferation and survival. METHODS We investigated the novel role of β-estradiol in modulating the proliferation and apoptosis of fetal SSCs via the regulation of SCF secretion in Sertoli cells isolated from human fetal testes. The proliferation of SSCs in the co-culture system was determined by colony formation and BrdU incorporation assays. TUNEL assay was used to measure SSC apoptosis in co-culture in response to treatment with control, β-estradiol, or the combination of β-estradiol and the estrogen receptor inhibitor ICI 182780. RESULTS In the system with purified human fetal Sertoli cells (MIS+/c-Kit-/AP-), β-estradiol upregulated the production of SCF in a dose- and time-dependent manner. In the co-culture system of primary human fetal SSCs (c-Kit+/SSEA-4+/Oct-4+/AP+) and Sertoli cells (MIS+), β-estradiol markedly increased the proliferation of SSCs. Moreover, SSC apoptosis was significantly inhibited by β-estradiol and was completely reversed by the combination of β-estradiol and ICI 182780. CONCLUSION Here we report, for the first time, that β-estradiol can induce the increase of SCF expression in human fetal Sertoli cells and regulates the growth and survival of human fetal SSCs. These novel findings provide new perspectives on the current understanding of the role of estrogen in human spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Tao
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, China.,Department of Medical Laboratory, School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Yuan Sun
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, China
| | - Yuanchi Chao
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, China
| | - Liu Xing
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, China.,Reproductive & Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, 410078, China
| | - Lizhi Leng
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, China.,Reproductive & Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, 410078, China
| | - Dai Zhou
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, China.,Reproductive & Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, 410078, China
| | - Wenbing Zhu
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, China.,Reproductive & Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, 410078, China
| | - Liqing Fan
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, China. .,Reproductive & Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, 410078, China.
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Between a Rock and a Hard Place: An Epigenetic-Centric View of Testicular Germ Cell Tumors. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13071506. [PMID: 33805941 PMCID: PMC8036638 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13071506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary This minireview focuses on the role of epigenetics in testicular cancer. A working model is developed that postulates that epigenetic features that drive testicular cancer malignancy also enable these tumors to be cured at a high rate with chemotherapy. Chemoresistance may occur by epigenetic uncoupling of malignancy and chemosensitivity, a scenario that may be amenable to epigenetic-based therapies. Abstract Compared to many common solid tumors, the main genetic drivers of most testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) are unknown. Decades of focus on genomic alterations in TGCTs including awareness of a near universal increase in copies of chromosome 12p have failed to uncover exceptional driver genes, especially in genes that can be targeted therapeutically. Thus far, TGCT patients have missed out on the benefits of targeted therapies available to treat most other malignancies. In the past decade there has been a greater appreciation that epigenetics may play an especially prominent role in TGCT etiology, progression, and hypersensitivity to conventional chemotherapy. While genetics undoubtedly plays a role in TGCT biology, this mini-review will focus on the epigenetic “states” or features of testicular cancer, with an emphasis on DNA methylation, histone modifications, and miRNAs associated with TGCT susceptibility, initiation, progression, and response to chemotherapy. In addition, we comment on the current status of epigenetic-based therapy and epigenetic biomarker development for TGCTs. Finally, we suggest a unifying “rock and a hard place” or “differentiate or die” model where the tumorigenicity and curability of TGCTs are both dependent on common but still ill-defined epigenetic states.
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Lakpour N, Saliminejad K, Ghods R, Reza Sadeghi M, Pilatz A, Khosravi F, Madjd Z. Potential biomarkers for testicular germ cell tumour: Risk assessment, diagnostic, prognostic and monitoring of recurrence. Andrologia 2021; 53:e13998. [PMID: 33534171 DOI: 10.1111/and.13998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Revised: 01/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumour (TGCT) is considered a relatively rare malignancy usually occurring in young men between 15 and 35 years of age, and both genetic and environmental factors contribute to its development. The majority of patients are diagnosed in an early-stage of TGCTs with an elevated 5-year survival rate after therapy. However, approximately 25% of patients show an incomplete response to chemotherapy or tumours relapse. The current therapies are accompanied by several adverse effects, including infertility. Aside from classical serum biomarker, many studies reported novel biomarkers for TGCTs, but without proper validation. Cancer cells share many similarities with embryonic stem cells (ESCs), and since ESC genes are not transcribed in most adult tissues, they could be considered ideal candidate targets for cancer-specific diagnosis and treatment. Added to this, several microRNAs (miRNA) including miRNA-371-3p can be further investigated as a molecular biomarker for diagnosis and monitoring of TGCTs. In this review, we will illustrate the findings of recent investigations in novel TGCTs biomarkers applicable for risk assessment, screening, diagnosis, prognosis, prediction and monitoring of the relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niknam Lakpour
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kioomars Saliminejad
- Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Roya Ghods
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Sadeghi
- Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Adrian Pilatz
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Farhad Khosravi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Zahra Madjd
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Raos D, Krasic J, Masic S, Abramovic I, Coric M, Kruslin B, Katusic Bojanac A, Bulic-Jakus F, Jezek D, Ulamec M, Sincic N. In Search of TGCT Biomarkers: A Comprehensive In Silico and Histopathological Analysis. DISEASE MARKERS 2020; 2020:8841880. [PMID: 33224314 PMCID: PMC7666710 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8841880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Revised: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) are ever more affecting the young male population. Germ cell neoplasia in situ (GCNIS) is the origin of TGCTs, namely, seminomas (SE) and a heterogeneous group of nonseminomas (NS) comprising embryonal carcinoma, teratoma, yolk sac tumor, and choriocarcinoma. Response to the treatment and prognosis, especially of NS, depend on precise diagnosis with a necessity for discovery of new biomarkers. We aimed to perform comprehensive in silico analysis at the DNA, RNA, and protein levels of six prospective (HOXA9, MGMT, CFC1, PRSS21, RASSF1A, and MAGEC2) and six known TGCT biomarkers (OCT4, SOX17, SOX2, SALL4, NANOG, and KIT) and assess its congruence with histopathological analysis in all forms of TGCTs. Cancer Hallmarks Analytics Tool, the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins database, and UALCAN, an interactive web resource for analyzing cancer OMICS data, were used. In 108 TGCT and 48 tumor-free testicular samples, the immunoreactivity score (IRS) was calculated. SE showed higher frequency in DNA alteration, while DNA methylation was significantly higher for all prospective biomarkers in NS. In GCNIS, we assessed the clinical positivity of RASSF1 and PRSS21 in 52% and 62% of samples, respectively, in contrast to low or nil positivity in healthy seminiferous tubules, TGTCs as a group, SE, NS, or all NS components. Although present in approximately 80% of healthy seminiferous tubules (HT) and GCNIS, HOXA9 was diagnostically positive in 64% of TGCTs, while it was positive in 82% of NS versus 29% of SE. Results at the DNA, mRNA, and protein levels on putative and already known biomarkers were included in the suggested panels that may prove to be important for better diagnostics of various forms of TGCTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dora Raos
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Scientific Group for Research on Epigenetic Biomarkers, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Jure Krasic
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Scientific Group for Research on Epigenetic Biomarkers, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Silvija Masic
- Ljudevit Jurak Clinical Department of Pathology and Cytology, Sestre Milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Vinogradska Cesta 29, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Irena Abramovic
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Scientific Group for Research on Epigenetic Biomarkers, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marijana Coric
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Pathology and Cytology, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Kišpatićeva Ulica 12, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Bozo Kruslin
- Scientific Group for Research on Epigenetic Biomarkers, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Ljudevit Jurak Clinical Department of Pathology and Cytology, Sestre Milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Vinogradska Cesta 29, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ana Katusic Bojanac
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Floriana Bulic-Jakus
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Davor Jezek
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Histology and Embryology, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Monika Ulamec
- Scientific Group for Research on Epigenetic Biomarkers, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Ljudevit Jurak Clinical Department of Pathology and Cytology, Sestre Milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Vinogradska Cesta 29, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Pathology, University of Zagreb School of Dental Medicine and School of Medicine, Gundulićeva Ulica 5, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Nino Sincic
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Scientific Group for Research on Epigenetic Biomarkers, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
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Chimento A, De Luca A, Nocito MC, Avena P, La Padula D, Zavaglia L, Pezzi V. Role of GPER-Mediated Signaling in Testicular Functions and Tumorigenesis. Cells 2020; 9:cells9092115. [PMID: 32957524 PMCID: PMC7563107 DOI: 10.3390/cells9092115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Revised: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Estrogen signaling plays important roles in testicular functions and tumorigenesis. Fifteen years ago, it was discovered that a member of the G protein-coupled receptor family, GPR30, which binds also with high affinity to estradiol and is responsible, in part, for the rapid non-genomic actions of estrogens. GPR30, renamed as GPER, was detected in several tissues including germ cells (spermatogonia, spermatocytes, spermatids) and somatic cells (Sertoli and Leydig cells). In our previous review published in 2014, we summarized studies that evidenced a role of GPER signaling in mediating estrogen action during spermatogenesis and testis development. In addition, we evidenced that GPER seems to be involved in modulating estrogen-dependent testicular cancer cell growth; however, the effects on cell survival and proliferation depend on specific cell type. In this review, we update the knowledge obtained in the last years on GPER roles in regulating physiological functions of testicular cells and its involvement in neoplastic transformation of both germ and somatic cells. In particular, we will focus our attention on crosstalk among GPER signaling, classical estrogen receptors and other nuclear receptors involved in testis physiology regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adele Chimento
- Correspondence: (A.C.); (V.P.); Tel.: +39-0984-493184 (A.C.); +39-0984-493148 (V.P.)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Vincenzo Pezzi
- Correspondence: (A.C.); (V.P.); Tel.: +39-0984-493184 (A.C.); +39-0984-493148 (V.P.)
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Xie Y, Wei BH, Ni FD, Yang WX. Conversion from spermatogonia to spermatocytes: Extracellular cues and downstream transcription network. Gene 2020; 764:145080. [PMID: 32858178 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2020.145080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2020] [Revised: 08/16/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Spermatocyte (spc) formation from spermatogonia (spg) differentiation is the first step of spermatogenesis which produces prodigious spermatozoa for a lifetime. After decades of studies, several factors involved in the functioning of a mouse were discovered both inside and outside spg. Considering the peculiar expression and working pattern of each factor, this review divides the whole conversion of spg to spc into four consecutive development processes with a focus on extracellular cues and downstream transcription network in each one. Potential coordination among Dmrt1, Sohlh1/2 and BMP families mediates Ngn3 upregulation, which marks progenitor spg, with other changes. After that, retinoic acid (RA), as a master regulator, promotes A1 spg formation with its helpers and Sall4. A1-to-B spg transition is under the control of Kitl and impulsive RA signaling together with early and late transcription factors Stra8 and Dmrt6. Finally, RA and its responsive effectors conduct the entry into meiosis. The systematic transcription network from outside to inside still needs research to supplement or settle the controversials in each process. As a step further ahead, this review provides possible drug targets for infertility therapy by cross-linking humans and mouse model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Xie
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Bang-Hong Wei
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Fei-Da Ni
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wan-Xi Yang
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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