1
|
Del Giudice I, Della Starza I, De Falco F, Gaidano G, Sportoletti P. Monitoring Response and Resistance to Treatment in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2049. [PMID: 38893168 PMCID: PMC11171231 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16112049] [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: 03/30/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The recent evolution in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) targeted therapies led to a progressive change in the way clinicians manage the goals of treatment and evaluate the response to treatment in respect to the paradigm of the chemoimmunotherapy era. Continuous therapies with BTK inhibitors achieve prolonged and sustained control of the disease. On the other hand, venetoclax and anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies or, more recently, ibrutinib plus venetoclax combinations, given for a fixed duration, achieve undetectable measurable residual disease (uMRD) in the vast majority of patients. On these grounds, a time-limited MRD-driven strategy, a previously unexplored scenario in CLL, is being attempted. On the other side of the spectrum, novel genetic and non-genetic mechanisms of resistance to targeted treatments are emerging. Here we review the response assessment criteria, the evolution and clinical application of MRD analysis and the mechanisms of resistance according to the novel treatment strategies within clinical trials. The extent to which this novel evidence will translate in the real-life management of CLL patients remains an open issue to be addressed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Del Giudice
- Hematology, Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Irene Della Starza
- Hematology, Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University, 00161 Rome, Italy;
- AIL Roma, ODV, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Filomena De Falco
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology and Center for Hemato-Oncological Research, University of Perugia, 06129 Perugia, Italy;
| | - Gianluca Gaidano
- Division of Hematology, Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy;
| | - Paolo Sportoletti
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology and Center for Hemato-Oncological Research, University of Perugia, 06129 Perugia, Italy;
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Shi Q, Xue C, Zeng Y, Yuan X, Chu Q, Jiang S, Wang J, Zhang Y, Zhu D, Li L. Notch signaling pathway in cancer: from mechanistic insights to targeted therapies. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:128. [PMID: 38797752 PMCID: PMC11128457 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01828-x] [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: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 03/31/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Notch signaling, renowned for its role in regulating cell fate, organ development, and tissue homeostasis across metazoans, is highly conserved throughout evolution. The Notch receptor and its ligands are transmembrane proteins containing epidermal growth factor-like repeat sequences, typically necessitating receptor-ligand interaction to initiate classical Notch signaling transduction. Accumulating evidence indicates that the Notch signaling pathway serves as both an oncogenic factor and a tumor suppressor in various cancer types. Dysregulation of this pathway promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition and angiogenesis in malignancies, closely linked to cancer proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. Furthermore, the Notch signaling pathway contributes to maintaining stem-like properties in cancer cells, thereby enhancing cancer invasiveness. The regulatory role of the Notch signaling pathway in cancer metabolic reprogramming and the tumor microenvironment suggests its pivotal involvement in balancing oncogenic and tumor suppressive effects. Moreover, the Notch signaling pathway is implicated in conferring chemoresistance to tumor cells. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of these biological processes is crucial for developing innovative therapeutic strategies targeting Notch signaling. This review focuses on the research progress of the Notch signaling pathway in cancers, providing in-depth insights into the potential mechanisms of Notch signaling regulation in the occurrence and progression of cancer. Additionally, the review summarizes pharmaceutical clinical trials targeting Notch signaling for cancer therapy, aiming to offer new insights into therapeutic strategies for human malignancies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qingmiao Shi
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Chen Xue
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Yifan Zeng
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Xin Yuan
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Qingfei Chu
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Shuwen Jiang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Jinzhi Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Yaqi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Danhua Zhu
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China.
| | - Lanjuan Li
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Forsberg M, Konopleva M. SOHO State of the Art Updates and Next Questions: Understanding and Overcoming Venetoclax Resistance in Hematologic Malignancies. CLINICAL LYMPHOMA, MYELOMA & LEUKEMIA 2024; 24:1-14. [PMID: 38007372 DOI: 10.1016/j.clml.2023.10.006] [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: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/27/2023]
Abstract
The discovery of Venetoclax (VEN) has transformed the therapeutic landscape of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). However, the response is heterogeneous with 10% to 50% of newly diagnosed AML patients not responding to hypomethylating agent (HMA) and VEN. Furthermore, up to 40% of responding patients relapse shortly. This review discusses the mechanism of action of Venetoclax and the major mechanisms of inherent and acquired resistance to VEN. VEN is highly specific to BCL-2 binding, as such other antiapoptotic proteins in BCL-2 family induce resistance. These antiapoptotic proteins can also be upregulated via a number of compensatory cell signaling pathways including PI3K/AKT/mTOR, the MAPK/ERK pathway, and mutant FLT3-ITD. Mutations can occur in BCL-2 and BAX proteins, or they can be silenced by TP53 mutations and other epigenetic changes. Changes to mitochondrial structure and metabolism can induce resistance. Key metabolic regulators include OXPHOS and alternative amino acid metabolism. Finally microenvironmental factors can influence VEN responses. This paper evaluates subsets of AML by differentiation, histology, cytogenetics and molecular markers and their different responses to VEN; with spliceosome mutations, ASXL1, NPM1 and IDH1/2 being favorable while others such as FLT3, TP53 and BCL-2 mutations being less responsive. Currently intensive multiagent chemotherapy and Venetoclax combinations such as 7+3+VEN are favored in fit younger AML patients. However, with resistant patients' subsets targeted combination therapies are becoming an increasingly attractive option. We explore the incorporation of non-BCL-2 inhibitors, next-generation BCL-2 and multi-protein agents, other inhibitors most prominently FLT-3 inhibitors in addition to Venetoclax, and other novel approaches for resolving Venetoclax resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mark Forsberg
- Department of Oncology, Montefiore Einstein Cancer Center, Bronx, NY
| | - Marina Konopleva
- Department of Oncology, Montefiore Einstein Cancer Center, Bronx, NY.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Reyes A, Siddiqi T. Targeting BCL2 pathways in CLL: a story of resistance and ingenuity. CANCER DRUG RESISTANCE (ALHAMBRA, CALIF.) 2023; 6:828-837. [PMID: 38263980 PMCID: PMC10804389 DOI: 10.20517/cdr.2023.97] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is common amongst leukemic malignancies, prompting dedicated investigation throughout the years. Over the last decade, the treatment for CLL has significantly advanced with agents targeting B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2), Bruton's tyrosine kinase, and CD20. Single agents or combinations of these targets have proven efficacy. Unfortunately, resistance to one or multiple of the new treatment targets develops. Our review investigates various mechanisms of resistance to BCL2 inhibitors, including mutations in BCL2, alterations in the Bcl protein pathway, epigenetic modifications, genetic heterogeneity, Richter transformation, and alterations in oxidative phosphorylation. Additionally, the review will discuss potential avenues to overcome this resistance with novel agents such as bispecific antibodies, Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) degraders, non-covalent BTK inhibitors, and chimeric antigen receptor T (CART).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Reyes
- Hematology & Oncology, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Silva Barcelos EC, Rompietti C, Adamo FM, Dorillo E, De Falco F, Del Papa B, Baldoni S, Nogarotto M, Esposito A, Capoccia S, Geraci C, Sorcini D, Stella A, Arcaleni R, Tini V, Imbroisi Valle Errera F, Rosati E, Sportoletti P. NOTCH1-mutated chronic lymphocytic leukemia displays high endoplasmic reticulum stress response with druggable potential. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1218989. [PMID: 37817771 PMCID: PMC10561002 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1218989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Constitutive activation of NOTCH1-wild-type (NT1-WT) signaling is associated with poor outcomes in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), and NOTCH1 mutation (c.7541_7542delCT), which potentiates NOTCH1 signaling, worsens the prognosis. However, the specific mechanisms of NOTCH1 deregulation are still poorly understood. Accumulative evidence mentioned endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress/unfolded protein response (UPR) as a key targetable pathway in CLL. In this study, we investigated the impact of NOTCH1 deregulation on CLL cell response to ER stress induction, with the aim of identifying new therapeutic opportunities for CLL. Methods We performed a bioinformatics analysis of NOTCH1-mutated (NT1-M) and NT1-WT CLL to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) using the rank product test. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), Western blotting, cytosolic Ca2+, and annexin V/propidium iodide (PI) assay were used to detect curcumin ER stress induction effects. A median-effect equation was used for drug combination tests. The experimental mouse model Eμ-TCL1 was used to evaluate the impact of ER stress exacerbation by curcumin treatment on the progression of leukemic cells and NOTCH1 signaling. Results and discussion Bioinformatics analysis revealed gene enrichment of the components of the ER stress/UPR pathway in NT1-M compared to those in NT1-WT CLL. Ectopic expression of NOTCH1 mutation upregulated the levels of ER stress response markers in the PGA1 CLL cell line. Primary NT1-M CLL was more sensitive to curcumin as documented by a significant perturbation in Ca2+ homeostasis and higher expression of ER stress/UPR markers compared to NT1-WT cells. It was also accompanied by a significantly higher apoptotic response mediated by C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) expression, caspase 4 cleavage, and downregulation of NOTCH1 signaling in NT1-M CLL cells. Curcumin potentiated the apoptotic effect of venetoclax in NT1-M CLL cells. In Eμ-TCL1 leukemic mice, the administration of curcumin activated ER stress in splenic B cells ex vivo and significantly reduced the percentage of CD19+/CD5+ cells infiltrating the spleen, liver, and bone marrow (BM). These cellular effects were associated with reduced NOTCH1 activity in leukemic cells and resulted in prolonged survival of curcumin-treated mice. Overall, our results indicate that ER stress induction in NT1-M CLL might represent a new therapeutic opportunity for these high-risk CLL patients and improve the therapeutic effect of drugs currently used in CLL.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Estevão Carlos Silva Barcelos
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
- Postgraduate Program in Biotechnology, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Vitória, Brazil
| | - Chiara Rompietti
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Francesco Maria Adamo
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Erica Dorillo
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Filomena De Falco
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Beatrice Del Papa
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Stefano Baldoni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
- Department of Medicine and Sciences of Aging, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Manuel Nogarotto
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Angela Esposito
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Silvia Capoccia
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Clelia Geraci
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Daniele Sorcini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Arianna Stella
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Roberta Arcaleni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Valentina Tini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | | | - Emanuela Rosati
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Biosciences and Medical Embryology Section, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Paolo Sportoletti
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Hematology, Centro di Ricerca Emato-Oncologica (CREO), University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Maher N, Mouhssine S, Matti BF, Alwan AF, Gaidano G. Treatment Refractoriness in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: Old and New Molecular Biomarkers. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10374. [PMID: 37373521 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241210374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 06/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is the most common leukemia in adults. Despite its indolent clinical course, therapy refractoriness and disease progression still represent an unmet clinical need. Before the advent of pathway inhibitors, chemoimmunotherapy (CIT) was the commonest option for CLL treatment and is still widely used in areas with limited access to pathway inhibitors. Several biomarkers of refractoriness to CIT have been highlighted, including the unmutated status of immunoglobulin heavy chain variable genes and genetic lesions of TP53, BIRC3 and NOTCH1. In order to overcome resistance to CIT, targeted pathway inhibitors have become the standard of care for the treatment of CLL, with practice-changing results obtained through the inhibitors of Bruton tyrosine kinase (BTK) and BCL2. However, several acquired genetic lesions causing resistance to covalent and noncovalent BTK inhibitors have been reported, including point mutations of both BTK (e.g., C481S and L528W) and PLCG2 (e.g., R665W). Multiple mechanisms are involved in resistance to the BCL2 inhibitor venetoclax, including point mutations that impair drug binding, the upregulation of BCL2-related anti-apoptotic family members, and microenvironmental alterations. Recently, immune checkpoint inhibitors and CAR-T cells have been tested for CLL treatment, obtaining conflicting results. Potential refractoriness biomarkers to immunotherapy were identified, including abnormal levels of circulating IL-10 and IL-6 and the reduced presence of CD27+CD45RO- CD8+ T cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nawar Maher
- Division of Hematology, Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale and Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Maggiore della Carità, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Samir Mouhssine
- Division of Hematology, Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale and Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Maggiore della Carità, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Bassam Francis Matti
- Department of Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplant, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplant Center, Baghdad 00964, Iraq
| | - Alaa Fadhil Alwan
- Department of Clinical Hematology, The National Center of Hematology, Mustansiriyah University, Baghdad 10015, Iraq
| | - Gianluca Gaidano
- Division of Hematology, Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale and Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Maggiore della Carità, 28100 Novara, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Mesini N, Fiorcari S, Atene CG, Maffei R, Potenza L, Luppi M, Marasca R. Role of Notch2 pathway in mature B cell malignancies. Front Oncol 2023; 12:1073672. [PMID: 36686759 PMCID: PMC9846264 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1073672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent decades, the Notch pathway has been characterized as a key regulatory signaling of cell-fate decisions evolutionarily conserved in many organisms and different tissues during lifespan. At the same time, many studies suggest a link between alterations of this signaling and tumor genesis or progression. In lymphopoiesis, the Notch pathway plays a fundamental role in the correct differentiation of T and B cells, but its deregulated activity leads to leukemic onset and evolution. Notch and its ligands Delta/Jagged exhibit a pivotal role in the crosstalk between leukemic cells and their environment. This review is focused in particular on Notch2 receptor activity. Members of Notch2 pathway have been reported to be mutated in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL), Splenic Marginal Zone Lymphoma (SMZL) and Nodal Marginal Zone Lymphoma (NMZL). CLL is a B cell malignancy in which leukemic clones establish supportive crosstalk with non-malignant cells of the tumor microenvironment to grow, survive, and resist even the new generation of drugs. SMZL and NMZL are indolent B cell neoplasms distinguished by a distinct pattern of dissemination. In SMZL leukemic cells affect mainly the spleen, bone marrow, and peripheral blood, while NMZL has a leading nodal distribution. Since Notch2 is involved in the commitment of leukemic cells to the marginal zone as a major regulator of B cell physiological differentiation, it is predominantly affected by the molecular lesions found in both SMZL and NMZL. In light of these findings, a better understanding of the Notch receptor family pathogenic role, in particular Notch2, is desirable because it is still incomplete, not only in the physiological development of B lymphocytes but also in leukemia progression and resistance. Several therapeutic strategies capable of interfering with Notch signaling, such as monoclonal antibodies, enzyme or complex inhibitors, are being analyzed. To avoid the unwanted multiple "on target" toxicity encountered during the systemic inhibition of Notch signaling, the study of an appropriate pharmaceutical formulation is a pressing need. This is why, to date, there are still no Notch-targeted therapies approved. An accurate analysis of the Notch pathway could be useful to drive the discovery of new therapeutic targets and the development of more effective therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolò Mesini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Section of Hematology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Stefania Fiorcari
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Section of Hematology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Claudio Giacinto Atene
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Section of Hematology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Rossana Maffei
- Hematology Unit, Department of Oncology and Hematology, Azienda-Ospedaliero Universitaria (AOU) of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Leonardo Potenza
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Section of Hematology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy,Hematology Unit, Department of Oncology and Hematology, Azienda-Ospedaliero Universitaria (AOU) of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Mario Luppi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Section of Hematology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy,Hematology Unit, Department of Oncology and Hematology, Azienda-Ospedaliero Universitaria (AOU) of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Roberto Marasca
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Section of Hematology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy,Hematology Unit, Department of Oncology and Hematology, Azienda-Ospedaliero Universitaria (AOU) of Modena, Modena, Italy,*Correspondence: Roberto Marasca,
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Aksoy O, Lind J, Sunder-Plaßmann V, Vallet S, Podar K. Bone marrow microenvironment- induced regulation of Bcl-2 family members in multiple myeloma (MM): Therapeutic implications. Cytokine 2023; 161:156062. [PMID: 36332463 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2022.156062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
In Multiple Myeloma (MM) the finely tuned homeostasis of the bone marrow (BM) microenvironment is disrupted. Evasion of programmed cell death (apoptosis) represents a hallmark of cancer. Besides genetic aberrations, the supportive and protective MM BM milieu, which is constituted by cytokines and growth factors, intercellular and cell: extracellular matrix (ECM) interactions and exosomes, in particular, plays a key role in the abundance of pro-survival members of the Bcl-2 family (i.e., Mcl-1, Bcl-2, and Bcl-xL) in tumor cells. Moreover, microenvironmental cues have also an impact on stability- regulating post-translational modifications of anti-apoptotic proteins including de/phosphorylation, polyubiquitination; on their intracellular binding affinities, and localization. Advances of our molecular knowledge on the escape of cancer cells from apoptosis have informed the development of a new class of small molecules that mimic the action of BH3-only proteins. Indeed, approaches to directly target anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family members are among today's most promising therapeutic strategies and BH3-mimetics (i.e., venetoclax) are currently revolutionizing not only the treatment of CLL and AML, but also hold great therapeutic promise in MM. Furthermore, approaches that activate apoptotic pathways indirectly via modification of the tumor microenvironment have already entered clinical practice. The present review article will summarize our up-to-date knowledge on molecular mechanisms by which the MM BM microenvironment, cytokines, and growth factors in particular, mediates tumor cell evasion from apoptosis. Moreover, it will discuss some of the most promising science- derived therapeutic strategies to overcome Bcl-2- mediated tumor cell survival in order to further improve MM patient outcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Osman Aksoy
- Molecular Oncology and Hematology Unit, Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Dr. Karl-Dorrek-Straße 30, 3500 Krems an der Donau, Austria
| | - Judith Lind
- Molecular Oncology and Hematology Unit, Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Dr. Karl-Dorrek-Straße 30, 3500 Krems an der Donau, Austria
| | - Vincent Sunder-Plaßmann
- Molecular Oncology and Hematology Unit, Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Dr. Karl-Dorrek-Straße 30, 3500 Krems an der Donau, Austria
| | - Sonia Vallet
- Molecular Oncology and Hematology Unit, Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Dr. Karl-Dorrek-Straße 30, 3500 Krems an der Donau, Austria; Department of Internal Medicine 2, University Hospital Krems, Mitterweg 10, 3500 Krems an der Donau, Austria
| | - Klaus Podar
- Molecular Oncology and Hematology Unit, Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Dr. Karl-Dorrek-Straße 30, 3500 Krems an der Donau, Austria; Department of Internal Medicine 2, University Hospital Krems, Mitterweg 10, 3500 Krems an der Donau, Austria.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Mollstedt J, Mansouri L, Rosenquist R. Precision diagnostics in chronic lymphocytic leukemia: Past, present and future. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1146486. [PMID: 37035166 PMCID: PMC10080996 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1146486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetic diagnostics of hematological malignancies has evolved dramatically over the years, from chromosomal banding analysis to next-generation sequencing, with a corresponding increased capacity to detect clinically relevant prognostic and predictive biomarkers. In diagnostics of patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), we currently apply fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH)-based analysis to detect recurrent chromosomal aberrations (del(11q), del(13q), del(17p) and trisomy 12) as well as targeted sequencing (IGHV and TP53 mutational status) for risk-stratifying purposes. These analyses are performed before start of any line of treatment and assist in clinical decision-making including selection of targeted therapy (BTK and BCL2 inhibitors). Here, we present the current view on the genomic landscape of CLL, including an update on recent advances with potential for clinical translation. We discuss different state-of-the-art technologies that are applied to enable precision diagnostics in CLL and highlight important genomic markers with current prognostic and/or predictive impact as well as those of prospective clinical relevance. In the coming years, it will be important to develop more comprehensive genomic analyses that can capture all types of relevant genetic aberrations, but also to develop highly sensitive assays to detect minor mutations that affect therapy response or confer resistance to targeted therapies. Finally, we will bring up the potential of new technologies and multi-omics analysis to further subclassify the disease and facilitate implementation of precision medicine approaches in this still incurable disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John Mollstedt
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Larry Mansouri
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Richard Rosenquist
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Clinical Genetics, Karolinska University Hospital, Solna, Sweden
- *Correspondence: Richard Rosenquist,
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Bennett R, Thompson E, Tam C. SOHO State of the Art Updates and Next Questions | Mechanisms of Resistance to BCL2 Inhibitor Therapy in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia and Potential Future Therapeutic Directions. CLINICAL LYMPHOMA, MYELOMA & LEUKEMIA 2022; 22:795-804. [PMID: 35970756 DOI: 10.1016/j.clml.2022.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) constitutively overexpresses B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2) with consequent dysregulation of intrinsic apoptosis leading to abnormal cellular survival. Therapeutic use of BCL2 inhibitors (BCL2i, eg, venetoclax) in CLL, as both continuous monotherapy or in fixed duration combination, has translated scientific rationale into clinical benefit with significant rates of complete responses, including those without detectable minimal residual disease. Unlike with chemotherapy, response rates to venetoclax do not appear to be influenced by pre-existing chromosomal abnormalities or somatic mutations present, although the duration of response observed remains shorter for those with traditional higher risk genetic aberrations. This review seeks to describe both the disease factors that influence primary venetoclax sensitivity/resistance and those resistance mechanisms that may be acquired secondary to BCL2i therapy in CLL. Baseline venetoclax-sensitivity or -resistance is influenced by the expression of BCL2 relative to other BCL2 family member proteins, microenvironmental factors including nodal T-cell stimulation, and tumoral heterogeneity. With selection pressure applied by continuous venetoclax exposure, secondary resistance mechanisms develop in oligoclonal fashion. Those mechanisms described include acquisition of BCL2 variants, dynamic aberrations of alternative BCL2 family proteins, and mutations affecting both BAX and other BH3 proteins. In view of the resistance described, this review also proposes future applications of BCL2i therapy in CLL and potential means by which BCL2i-resistance may be abrogated.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Humans
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/drug therapy
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/genetics
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/pathology
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-bcl-2/genetics
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-bcl-2/metabolism
- bcl-2-Associated X Protein/pharmacology
- Drug Resistance, Neoplasm
- Bridged Bicyclo Compounds, Heterocyclic/pharmacology
- Bridged Bicyclo Compounds, Heterocyclic/therapeutic use
- Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology
- Antineoplastic Agents/therapeutic use
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rory Bennett
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Ella Thompson
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Constantine Tam
- Alfred Health and Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Liu J, Chen Y, Yu L, Yang L. Mechanisms of venetoclax resistance and solutions. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1005659. [PMID: 36313732 PMCID: PMC9597307 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1005659] [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: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The BCL-2 inhibitor venetoclax is currently approved for treatment of hematologic diseases and is widely used either as monotherapy or in combination strategies. It has produced promising results in the treatment of refractory or relapsed (R/R) and aged malignant hematologic diseases. However, with clinical use, resistance to venetoclax has emerged. We review the mechanism of reduced dependence on BCL-2 mediated by the upregulation of antiapoptotic proteins other than BCL-2, such as MCL-1 and BCL-XL, which is the primary mechanism of venetoclax resistance, and find that this mechanism is achieved through different pathways in different hematologic diseases. Additionally, this paper also summarizes the current investigations of the mechanisms of venetoclax resistance in terms of altered cellular metabolism, changes in the mitochondrial structure, altered or modified BCL-2 binding domains, and some other aspects; this article also reviews relevant strategies to address these resistance mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiachen Liu
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yidong Chen
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lihua Yu
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lihua Yang
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Lihua Yang,
| |
Collapse
|