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Buck J, Hii H, Endersby R. Patient-Derived Orthotopic Xenograft Models for High-Grade Pediatric Brain Cancers. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2806:41-53. [PMID: 38676795 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3858-3_5] [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] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
Patient-derived orthotopic xenograft (PDOX) mouse models are considered the gold standard for evidence-based preclinical research in pediatric neuro-oncology. This protocol describes the generation of PDOX models by intracranial implantation of human pediatric brain cancer cells into immune-deficient mice, and their continued propagation to establish cohorts of animals for preclinical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Buck
- Brain Tumor Research Program, Telethon Kids Cancer Centre, Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, WA, Australia
- Centre for Child Health Research, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Hilary Hii
- Brain Tumor Research Program, Telethon Kids Cancer Centre, Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Raelene Endersby
- Brain Tumor Research Program, Telethon Kids Cancer Centre, Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, WA, Australia.
- Centre for Child Health Research, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia.
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2
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Whitehouse JP, Hii H, Mayoh C, Wong M, Ajuyah P, Barahona P, Cui L, Dholaria H, White CL, Buntine MK, Byrne J, Rodrigues da Silva K, Howlett M, Girard EJ, Tsoli M, Ziegler DS, Dyke JM, Lee S, Ekert PG, Cowley MJ, Gottardo NG, Endersby R. In vivo loss of tumorigenicity in a patient-derived orthotopic xenograft mouse model of ependymoma. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1123492. [PMID: 36937401 PMCID: PMC10020925 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1123492] [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: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Ependymomas (EPN) are the third most common malignant brain cancer in children. Treatment strategies for pediatric EPN have remained unchanged over recent decades, with 10-year survival rates stagnating at just 67% for children aged 0-14 years. Moreover, a proportion of patients who survive treatment often suffer long-term neurological side effects as a result of therapy. It is evident that there is a need for safer, more effective treatments for pediatric EPN patients. There are ten distinct subgroups of EPN, each with their own molecular and prognostic features. To identify and facilitate the testing of new treatments for EPN, in vivo laboratory models representative of the diverse molecular subtypes are required. Here, we describe the establishment of a patient-derived orthotopic xenograft (PDOX) model of posterior fossa A (PFA) EPN, derived from a metastatic cranial lesion. Methods Patient and PDOX tumors were analyzed using immunohistochemistry, DNA methylation profiling, whole genome sequencing (WGS) and RNA sequencing. Results Both patient and PDOX tumors classified as PFA EPN by methylation profiling, and shared similar histological features consistent with this molecular subgroup. RNA sequencing revealed that gene expression patterns were maintained across the primary and metastatic tumors, as well as the PDOX. Copy number profiling revealed gains of chromosomes 7, 8 and 19, and loss of chromosomes 2q and 6q in the PDOX and matched patient tumor. No clinically significant single nucleotide variants were identified, consistent with the low mutation rates observed in PFA EPN. Overexpression of EZHIP RNA and protein, a common feature of PFA EPN, was also observed. Despite the aggressive nature of the tumor in the patient, this PDOX was unable to be maintained past two passages in vivo. Discussion Others who have successfully developed PDOX models report some of the lowest success rates for EPN compared to other pediatric brain cancer types attempted, with loss of tumorigenicity not uncommon, highlighting the challenges of propagating these tumors in the laboratory. Here, we discuss our collective experiences with PFA EPN PDOX model generation and propose potential approaches to improve future success in establishing preclinical EPN models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline P. Whitehouse
- Brain Tumour Research Program, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Centre for Child Health Research, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Hilary Hii
- Brain Tumour Research Program, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Chelsea Mayoh
- Children’s Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia
| | - Marie Wong
- Children’s Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia
| | - Pamela Ajuyah
- Children’s Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia
| | - Paulette Barahona
- Children’s Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia
| | - Louise Cui
- Children’s Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia
| | - Hetal Dholaria
- Brain Tumour Research Program, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Oncology/Haematology, Perth Children’s Hospital, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Division of Paediatrics, University of Western Australia Medical School, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Christine L. White
- Genetics and Molecular Pathology Laboratory, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Division of Genetics and Genomics, Victorian Clinical Genetics Services, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Molly K. Buntine
- Genetics and Molecular Pathology Laboratory, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Jacob Byrne
- Brain Tumour Research Program, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Keteryne Rodrigues da Silva
- Brain Tumour Research Program, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Medical School of Rbeirão Preto (FMRP-USP), University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Meegan Howlett
- Brain Tumour Research Program, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Centre for Child Health Research, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Emily J. Girard
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, United States
- Ben Towne Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Maria Tsoli
- Children’s Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia
| | - David S. Ziegler
- Children’s Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, NSW, Australia
| | - Jason M. Dyke
- Department of Neuropathology, PathWest Laboratory Medicine, Royal Perth Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Sharon Lee
- Department of Neurosurgery, Perth Children’s Hospital, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Paul G. Ekert
- Children’s Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia
- Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Royal Children’s Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Cancer Immunology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- The Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Mark J. Cowley
- Children’s Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia
| | - Nicholas G. Gottardo
- Brain Tumour Research Program, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Centre for Child Health Research, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Oncology/Haematology, Perth Children’s Hospital, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Raelene Endersby
- Brain Tumour Research Program, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Centre for Child Health Research, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
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3
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Contenti J, Bost F, Mazure NM. [Medulloblastoma: The latest major advances]. Bull Cancer 2023; 110:412-423. [PMID: 36822958 DOI: 10.1016/j.bulcan.2023.02.002] [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: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
Medulloblastoma (MB) is a malignant brain tumor that mainly affects children. It is rarely found in adults. Among the four groups of MB defined today according to molecular characteristics, group 3 is the least favorable with an overall survival rate of 50 %. Current treatments, based on surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, are not sufficiently adapted to the different characteristics of the four MB groups. However, the use of new cellular and animal models has opened new doors to interesting therapeutic avenues. In this review, we detail recent advances in MB research, with a focus on the genes and pathways that drive tumorigenesis, with particular emphasis on the animal models that have been developed to study tumor biology, as well as advances in new targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Contenti
- Université Côte d'Azur, C3M, Inserm U1065, 151, route de Saint-Antoine-de-Ginestière, BP2 3194, 06204 Nice cedex 03, France; CHU de Nice, 30, voie Romaine, 06000 Nice, France.
| | - Frédéric Bost
- Université Côte d'Azur, C3M, Inserm U1065, 151, route de Saint-Antoine-de-Ginestière, BP2 3194, 06204 Nice cedex 03, France
| | - Nathalie M Mazure
- Université Côte d'Azur, C3M, Inserm U1065, 151, route de Saint-Antoine-de-Ginestière, BP2 3194, 06204 Nice cedex 03, France.
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4
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Abballe L, Spinello Z, Antonacci C, Coppola L, Miele E, Catanzaro G, Miele E. Nanoparticles for Drug and Gene Delivery in Pediatric Brain Tumors' Cancer Stem Cells: Current Knowledge and Future Perspectives. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15020505. [PMID: 36839827 PMCID: PMC9962005 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15020505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary malignant brain tumors are the most common solid neoplasm in childhood. Despite recent advances, many children affected by aggressive or metastatic brain tumors still present poor prognosis, therefore the development of more effective therapies is urgent. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have been discovered and isolated in both pediatric and adult patients with brain tumors (e.g., medulloblastoma, gliomas and ependymoma). CSCs are a small clonal population of cancer cells responsible for brain tumor initiation, maintenance and progression, displaying resistance to conventional anticancer therapies. CSCs are characterized by a specific repertoire of surface markers and intracellular specific pathways. These unique features of CSCs biology offer the opportunity to build therapeutic approaches to specifically target these cells in the complex tumor bulk. Treatment of pediatric brain tumors with classical chemotherapeutic regimen poses challenges both for tumor location and for the presence of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Lastly, the application of chemotherapy to a developing brain is followed by long-term sequelae, especially on cognitive abilities. Novel avenues are emerging in the therapeutic panorama taking advantage of nanomedicine. In this review we will summarize nanoparticle-based approaches and the efficacy that NPs have intrinsically demonstrated and how they are also decorated by biomolecules. Furthermore, we propose novel cargoes together with recent advances in nanoparticle design/synthesis with the final aim to specifically target the insidious CSCs population in the tumor bulk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luana Abballe
- Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology and Cellular and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Zaira Spinello
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Celeste Antonacci
- Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology and Cellular and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Lucia Coppola
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Ermanno Miele
- Cavendish Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0H3, UK
| | - Giuseppina Catanzaro
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (G.C.); (E.M.)
| | - Evelina Miele
- Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology and Cellular and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (G.C.); (E.M.)
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5
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McClellan BL, Haase S, Nunez FJ, Alghamri MS, Dabaja AA, Lowenstein PR, Castro MG. Impact of epigenetic reprogramming on antitumor immune responses in glioma. J Clin Invest 2023; 133:e163450. [PMID: 36647827 PMCID: PMC9843056 DOI: 10.1172/jci163450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic remodeling is a molecular hallmark of gliomas, and it has been identified as a key mediator of glioma progression. Epigenetic dysregulation contributes to gliomagenesis, tumor progression, and responses to immunotherapies, as well as determining clinical features. This epigenetic remodeling includes changes in histone modifications, chromatin structure, and DNA methylation, all of which are driven by mutations in genes such as histone 3 genes (H3C1 and H3F3A), isocitrate dehydrogenase 1/2 (IDH1/2), α-thalassemia/mental retardation, X-linked (ATRX), and additional chromatin remodelers. Although much of the initial research primarily identified how the epigenetic aberrations impacted glioma progression by solely examining the glioma cells, recent studies have aimed at establishing the role of epigenetic alterations in shaping the tumor microenvironment (TME). In this review, we discuss the mechanisms by which these epigenetic phenomena in glioma remodel the TME and how current therapies targeting epigenetic dysregulation affect the glioma immune response and therapeutic outcomes. Understanding the link between epigenetic remodeling and the glioma TME provides insights into the implementation of epigenetic-targeting therapies to improve the antitumor immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon L. McClellan
- Department of Neurosurgery and
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Santiago Haase
- Department of Neurosurgery and
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Felipe J. Nunez
- Department of Neurosurgery and
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Accenture-Argentina, Autonomous City of Buenos Aires (CABA), Argentina
| | - Mahmoud S. Alghamri
- Department of Neurosurgery and
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals Inc, Ridgefield, Connecticut, USA
| | - Ali A. Dabaja
- Department of Neurosurgery and
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Pedro R. Lowenstein
- Department of Neurosurgery and
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Maria G. Castro
- Department of Neurosurgery and
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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Riedel NC, de Faria FW, Alfert A, Bruder JM, Kerl K. Three-Dimensional Cell Culture Systems in Pediatric and Adult Brain Tumor Precision Medicine. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14235972. [PMID: 36497454 PMCID: PMC9738956 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14235972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary brain tumors often possess a high intra- and intertumoral heterogeneity, which fosters insufficient treatment response for high-grade neoplasms, leading to a dismal prognosis. Recent years have seen the emergence of patient-specific three-dimensional in vitro models, including organoids. They can mimic primary parenteral tumors more closely in their histological, transcriptional, and mutational characteristics, thus approximating their intratumoral heterogeneity better. These models have been established for entities including glioblastoma and medulloblastoma. They have proven themselves to be reliable platforms for studying tumor generation, tumor-TME interactions, and prediction of patient-specific responses to establish treatment regimens and new personalized therapeutics. In this review, we outline current 3D cell culture models for adult and pediatric brain tumors, explore their current limitations, and summarize their applications in precision oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole C. Riedel
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children’s Hospital Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Flavia W. de Faria
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children’s Hospital Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Amelie Alfert
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children’s Hospital Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Jan M. Bruder
- Department for Cell and Developmental Biology, Max Planck Institute for molecular Biomedicine, 48148 Münster, Germany
| | - Kornelius Kerl
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children’s Hospital Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-251-83-47742; Fax: +49-251-83-47828
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7
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Zebrafish Models of Paediatric Brain Tumours. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23179920. [PMID: 36077320 PMCID: PMC9456103 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23179920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Paediatric brain cancer is the second most common childhood cancer and is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in children. Despite significant advancements in the treatment modalities and improvements in the 5-year survival rate, it leaves long-term therapy-associated side effects in paediatric patients. Addressing these impairments demands further understanding of the molecularity and heterogeneity of these brain tumours, which can be demonstrated using different animal models of paediatric brain cancer. Here we review the use of zebrafish as potential in vivo models for paediatric brain tumour modelling, as well as catalogue the currently available zebrafish models used to study paediatric brain cancer pathophysiology, and discuss key findings, the unique attributes that these models add, current challenges and therapeutic significance.
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Badawi MI, Hafez KS. The significance of nanoparticles in brain cancer diagnosis and treatment: modeling and simulation. Biomed Phys Eng Express 2022; 8. [PMID: 35405668 DOI: 10.1088/2057-1976/ac6629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
A numerical analysis of specific absorption rate (SAR) and temperature distributions in a realistic human head model is presented in this study. The key challenge is to rise cancer temperature to an optimal temperature without heating nearby healthy tissues. The model's uniqueness is that it captures the effect of nanoparticles on both brain cancer diagnosis and treatment. A realistic human head model with a cancerous brain segmented from 2D magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) gained from an actual patient using 3D Slicer, modeled, and simulated using CST-Microwave Studio, and illuminated by Archimedes spiral antenna. At frequencies of 2450 MHz and 915 MHz, the model simulated the absence and presence of various nanoparticles. The obtained results suggest that when using nanoparticles, it is possible to achieve sufficient energy deposition and temperature rise to therapeutic values (greater than 42 °C) in brain cancers using the proposed noninvasive hyperthermia system at 915 MHz frequency, especially for gold nanoparticles, without harming surrounding healthy tissue. Our research might pave the way for a clinical applicator prototype that can heat brain cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed I Badawi
- Biomedical Equipment Technology Department, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences Technology, Pharos University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Karim S Hafez
- Biomedical Equipment Technology Department, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences Technology, Pharos University, Alexandria, Egypt
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Rota CM, Brown AT, Addleson E, Ives C, Trumper E, Pelton K, Teh WP, Schniederjan MJ, Castellino RC, Buhrlage S, Lauffenburger DA, Ligon KL, Griffith LG, Segal RA. Synthetic extracellular matrices and astrocytes provide a supportive microenvironment for the cultivation and investigation of primary pediatric gliomas. Neurooncol Adv 2022; 4:vdac049. [PMID: 35669012 PMCID: PMC9159660 DOI: 10.1093/noajnl/vdac049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pediatric gliomas comprise a diverse set of brain tumor entities that have substantial long-term ramifications for patient survival and quality of life. However, the study of these tumors is currently limited due to a lack of authentic models. Additionally, many aspects of pediatric brain tumor biology, such as tumor cell invasiveness, have been difficult to study with currently available tools. To address these issues, we developed a synthetic extracellular matrix (sECM)-based culture system to grow and study primary pediatric brain tumor cells. Methods We developed a brain-like sECM material as a supportive scaffold for the culture of primary, patient-derived pediatric glioma cells and established patient-derived cell lines. Primary juvenile brainstem-derived murine astrocytes were used as a feeder layer to support the growth of primary human tumor cells. Results We found that our culture system facilitated the proliferation of various primary pediatric brain tumors, including low-grade gliomas, and enabled ex vivo testing of investigational therapeutics. Additionally, we found that tuning this sECM material allowed us to assess high-grade pediatric glioma cell invasion and evaluate therapeutic interventions targeting invasive behavior. Conclusion Our sECM culture platform provides a multipurpose tool for pediatric brain tumor researchers that enables both a wide breadth of biological assays and the cultivation of diverse tumor types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher M Rota
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Alexander T Brown
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Emily Addleson
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Clara Ives
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ella Trumper
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kristine Pelton
- Department of Oncologic Pathology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Wei Pin Teh
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | - Sara Buhrlage
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Douglas A Lauffenburger
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Keith L Ligon
- Department of Oncologic Pathology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Linda G Griffith
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Rosalind A Segal
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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10
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Li Z, Langhans SA. In Vivo and Ex Vivo Pediatric Brain Tumor Models: An Overview. Front Oncol 2021; 11:620831. [PMID: 33869004 PMCID: PMC8047472 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.620831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
After leukemia, tumors of the brain and spine are the second most common form of cancer in children. Despite advances in treatment, brain tumors remain a leading cause of death in pediatric cancer patients and survivors often suffer from life-long consequences of side effects of therapy. The 5-year survival rates, however, vary widely by tumor type, ranging from over 90% in more benign tumors to as low as 20% in the most aggressive forms such as glioblastoma. Even within historically defined tumor types such as medulloblastoma, molecular analysis identified biologically heterogeneous subgroups each with different genetic alterations, age of onset and prognosis. Besides molecularly driven patient stratification to tailor disease risk to therapy intensity, such a diversity demonstrates the need for more precise and disease-relevant pediatric brain cancer models for research and drug development. Here we give an overview of currently available in vitro and in vivo pediatric brain tumor models and discuss the opportunities that new technologies such as 3D cultures and organoids that can bridge limitations posed by the simplicity of monolayer cultures and the complexity of in vivo models, bring to accommodate better precision in drug development for pediatric brain tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sigrid A. Langhans
- Nemours Biomedical Research, Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children, Wilmington, DE, United States
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11
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Advanced Spheroid, Tumouroid and 3D Bioprinted In-Vitro Models of Adult and Paediatric Glioblastoma. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22062962. [PMID: 33803967 PMCID: PMC8000246 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22062962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The life expectancy of patients with high-grade glioma (HGG) has not improved in decades. One of the crucial tools to enable future improvement is advanced models that faithfully recapitulate the tumour microenvironment; they can be used for high-throughput screening that in future may enable accurate personalised drug screens. Currently, advanced models are crucial for identifying and understanding potential new targets, assessing new chemotherapeutic compounds or other treatment modalities. Recently, various methodologies have come into use that have allowed the validation of complex models—namely, spheroids, tumouroids, hydrogel-embedded cultures (matrix-supported) and advanced bioengineered cultures assembled with bioprinting and microfluidics. This review is designed to present the state of advanced models of HGG, whilst focusing as much as is possible on the paediatric form of the disease. The reality remains, however, that paediatric HGG (pHGG) models are years behind those of adult HGG. Our goal is to bring this to light in the hope that pGBM models can be improved upon.
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12
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Haase S, Nuñez FM, Gauss JC, Thompson S, Brumley E, Lowenstein P, Castro MG. Hemispherical Pediatric High-Grade Glioma: Molecular Basis and Therapeutic Opportunities. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21249654. [PMID: 33348922 PMCID: PMC7766684 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21249654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In this review, we discuss the molecular characteristics, development, evolution, and therapeutic perspectives for pediatric high-grade glioma (pHGG) arising in cerebral hemispheres. Recently, the understanding of biology of pHGG experienced a revolution with discoveries arising from genomic and epigenomic high-throughput profiling techniques. These findings led to identification of prevalent molecular alterations in pHGG and revealed a strong connection between epigenetic dysregulation and pHGG development. Although we are only beginning to unravel the molecular biology underlying pHGG, there is a desperate need to develop therapies that would improve the outcome of pHGG patients, as current therapies do not elicit significant improvement in median survival for this patient population. We explore the molecular and cell biology and clinical state-of-the-art of pediatric high-grade gliomas (pHGGs) arising in cerebral hemispheres. We discuss the role of driving mutations, with a special consideration of the role of epigenetic-disrupting mutations. We will also discuss the possibilities of targeting unique molecular vulnerabilities of hemispherical pHGG to design innovative tailored therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santiago Haase
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (S.H.); (F.M.N.); (J.C.G.); (S.T.); (E.B.); (P.L.)
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Fernando M. Nuñez
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (S.H.); (F.M.N.); (J.C.G.); (S.T.); (E.B.); (P.L.)
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Jessica C. Gauss
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (S.H.); (F.M.N.); (J.C.G.); (S.T.); (E.B.); (P.L.)
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Sarah Thompson
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (S.H.); (F.M.N.); (J.C.G.); (S.T.); (E.B.); (P.L.)
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Emily Brumley
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (S.H.); (F.M.N.); (J.C.G.); (S.T.); (E.B.); (P.L.)
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Pedro Lowenstein
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (S.H.); (F.M.N.); (J.C.G.); (S.T.); (E.B.); (P.L.)
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Maria G. Castro
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (S.H.); (F.M.N.); (J.C.G.); (S.T.); (E.B.); (P.L.)
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Correspondence:
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13
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Pasqualini C, Kozaki T, Bruschi M, Nguyen THH, Minard-Colin V, Castel D, Grill J, Ginhoux F. Modeling the Interaction between the Microenvironment and Tumor Cells in Brain Tumors. Neuron 2020; 108:1025-1044. [PMID: 33065047 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2020.09.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Despite considerable recent advances in understanding and treating many other cancers, malignant brain tumors remain associated with low survival or severe long-term sequelae. Limited progress, including development of immunotherapies, relates in part to difficulties in accurately reproducing brain microenvironment with current preclinical models. The cellular interactions among resident microglia, recruited tumor-associated macrophages, stromal cells, glial cells, neurons, and cancer cells and how they affect tumor growth or behavior are emerging, yet many questions remain. The role of the blood-brain barrier, extracellular matrix components, and heterogeneity among tumor types and within different regions of a single tumor further complicate the matter. Here, we focus on brain microenvironment features impacted by tumor biology. We also discuss limits of current preclinical models and how complementary models, such as humanized animals and organoids, will allow deeper mechanistic insights on cancer biology, allowing for more efficient testing of therapeutic strategies, including immunotherapy, for brain cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Pasqualini
- Children and Adolescent Oncology Department, Gustave Roussy, Paris-Saclay University, Villejuif, France
| | - Tatsuya Kozaki
- Singapore Immunology Network (SIgN), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (ASTAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Marco Bruschi
- Genomics & Oncogenesis of Pediatric Brain Tumors, INSERM U981, Gustave Roussy, Paris-Saclay University, Villejuif, France
| | - Thi Hai Hoa Nguyen
- Genomics & Oncogenesis of Pediatric Brain Tumors, INSERM U981, Gustave Roussy, Paris-Saclay University, Villejuif, France
| | - Véronique Minard-Colin
- Children and Adolescent Oncology Department, Gustave Roussy, Paris-Saclay University, Villejuif, France; INSERM U1015, Gustave Roussy, Paris-Saclay University, Villejuif, France
| | - David Castel
- Genomics & Oncogenesis of Pediatric Brain Tumors, INSERM U981, Gustave Roussy, Paris-Saclay University, Villejuif, France
| | - Jacques Grill
- Children and Adolescent Oncology Department, Gustave Roussy, Paris-Saclay University, Villejuif, France; Genomics & Oncogenesis of Pediatric Brain Tumors, INSERM U981, Gustave Roussy, Paris-Saclay University, Villejuif, France.
| | - Florent Ginhoux
- Singapore Immunology Network (SIgN), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (ASTAR), Singapore, Singapore; Shanghai Institute of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Translational Immunology Institute, SingHealth Duke-NUS Academic Medical Centre, Singapore, Singapore.
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14
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Whitehouse JP, Howlett M, Hii H, Mayoh C, Wong M, Barahona P, Ajuyah P, White CL, Buntine MK, Dyke JM, Lee S, Valvi S, Stanley J, Andradas C, Carline B, Kuchibhotla M, Ekert PG, Cowley MJ, Gottardo NG, Endersby R. A Novel Orthotopic Patient-Derived Xenograft Model of Radiation-Induced Glioma Following Medulloblastoma. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12102937. [PMID: 33053751 PMCID: PMC7600047 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12102937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Radiation-induced glioma (RIG) is a highly aggressive brain cancer arising as a consequence of radiation therapy. We report a case of RIG that arose in the brain stem following treatment for paediatric medulloblastoma, and the development and characterisation of a matched orthotopic patient-derived xenograft (PDX) model (TK-RIG915). Patient and PDX tumours were analysed using DNA methylation profiling, whole genome sequencing (WGS) and RNA sequencing. While initially thought to be a diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) based on disease location, results from methylation profiling and WGS were not consistent with this diagnosis. Furthermore, clustering analyses based on RNA expression suggested the tumours were distinct from primary DIPG. Additional gene expression analysis demonstrated concordance with a published RIG expression profile. Multiple genetic alterations that enhance PI3K/AKT and Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK signalling were discovered in TK-RIG915 including an activating mutation in PIK3CA, upregulation of PDGFRA and AKT2, inactivating mutations in NF1, and a gain-of-function mutation in PTPN11. Additionally, deletion of CDKN2A/B, increased IDH1 expression, and decreased ARID1A expression were observed. Detection of phosphorylated S6, 4EBP1 and ERK via immunohistochemistry confirmed PI3K pathway and ERK activation. Here, we report one of the first PDX models for RIG, which recapitulates the patient disease and is molecularly distinct from primary brain stem glioma. Genetic interrogation of this model has enabled the identification of potential therapeutic vulnerabilities in this currently incurable disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline P. Whitehouse
- Brain Tumour Research Program, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands 6009, Australia; (J.P.W.); (M.H.); (H.H.); (S.V.); (J.S.); (C.A.); (B.C.); (M.K.); (N.G.G.)
- Centre for Child Health Research, University of Western Australia, Nedlands 6009, Australia
| | - Meegan Howlett
- Brain Tumour Research Program, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands 6009, Australia; (J.P.W.); (M.H.); (H.H.); (S.V.); (J.S.); (C.A.); (B.C.); (M.K.); (N.G.G.)
- Centre for Child Health Research, University of Western Australia, Nedlands 6009, Australia
| | - Hilary Hii
- Brain Tumour Research Program, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands 6009, Australia; (J.P.W.); (M.H.); (H.H.); (S.V.); (J.S.); (C.A.); (B.C.); (M.K.); (N.G.G.)
| | - Chelsea Mayoh
- Children’s Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Centre, UNSW Sydney, Kensington 2033, Australia; (C.M.); (M.W.); (P.B.); (P.A.); (P.G.E.); (M.J.C.)
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health, UNSW Sydney, Kensington 2033, Australia
| | - Marie Wong
- Children’s Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Centre, UNSW Sydney, Kensington 2033, Australia; (C.M.); (M.W.); (P.B.); (P.A.); (P.G.E.); (M.J.C.)
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health, UNSW Sydney, Kensington 2033, Australia
| | - Paulette Barahona
- Children’s Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Centre, UNSW Sydney, Kensington 2033, Australia; (C.M.); (M.W.); (P.B.); (P.A.); (P.G.E.); (M.J.C.)
| | - Pamela Ajuyah
- Children’s Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Centre, UNSW Sydney, Kensington 2033, Australia; (C.M.); (M.W.); (P.B.); (P.A.); (P.G.E.); (M.J.C.)
| | - Christine L. White
- Genetics and Molecular Pathology Laboratory, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton 3168, Victoria, Australia; (C.L.W.); (M.K.B.)
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Melbourne 3168, Victoria, Australia
| | - Molly K. Buntine
- Genetics and Molecular Pathology Laboratory, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton 3168, Victoria, Australia; (C.L.W.); (M.K.B.)
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Melbourne 3168, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jason M. Dyke
- Department of Neuropathology, PathWest Laboratory Medicine, Royal Perth Hospital, Perth 6000, Australia;
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Western Australia, Nedlands 6009, Australia
| | - Sharon Lee
- Department of Neurosurgery, Perth Children’s Hospital, Nedlands 6009, Australia;
| | - Santosh Valvi
- Brain Tumour Research Program, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands 6009, Australia; (J.P.W.); (M.H.); (H.H.); (S.V.); (J.S.); (C.A.); (B.C.); (M.K.); (N.G.G.)
- Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Oncology/Haematology, Perth Children’s Hospital, Nedlands 6009, Australia
- Division of Paediatrics, University of Western Australia Medical School, Nedlands 6009, Australia
| | - Jason Stanley
- Brain Tumour Research Program, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands 6009, Australia; (J.P.W.); (M.H.); (H.H.); (S.V.); (J.S.); (C.A.); (B.C.); (M.K.); (N.G.G.)
- Centre for Child Health Research, University of Western Australia, Nedlands 6009, Australia
| | - Clara Andradas
- Brain Tumour Research Program, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands 6009, Australia; (J.P.W.); (M.H.); (H.H.); (S.V.); (J.S.); (C.A.); (B.C.); (M.K.); (N.G.G.)
- Centre for Child Health Research, University of Western Australia, Nedlands 6009, Australia
| | - Brooke Carline
- Brain Tumour Research Program, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands 6009, Australia; (J.P.W.); (M.H.); (H.H.); (S.V.); (J.S.); (C.A.); (B.C.); (M.K.); (N.G.G.)
| | - Mani Kuchibhotla
- Brain Tumour Research Program, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands 6009, Australia; (J.P.W.); (M.H.); (H.H.); (S.V.); (J.S.); (C.A.); (B.C.); (M.K.); (N.G.G.)
| | - Paul G. Ekert
- Children’s Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Centre, UNSW Sydney, Kensington 2033, Australia; (C.M.); (M.W.); (P.B.); (P.A.); (P.G.E.); (M.J.C.)
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health, UNSW Sydney, Kensington 2033, Australia
- Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Royal Children’s Hospital, Parkville 3052, Victoria, Australia
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne 3000, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mark J. Cowley
- Children’s Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Centre, UNSW Sydney, Kensington 2033, Australia; (C.M.); (M.W.); (P.B.); (P.A.); (P.G.E.); (M.J.C.)
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health, UNSW Sydney, Kensington 2033, Australia
| | - Nicholas G. Gottardo
- Brain Tumour Research Program, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands 6009, Australia; (J.P.W.); (M.H.); (H.H.); (S.V.); (J.S.); (C.A.); (B.C.); (M.K.); (N.G.G.)
- Centre for Child Health Research, University of Western Australia, Nedlands 6009, Australia
- Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Oncology/Haematology, Perth Children’s Hospital, Nedlands 6009, Australia
| | - Raelene Endersby
- Brain Tumour Research Program, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands 6009, Australia; (J.P.W.); (M.H.); (H.H.); (S.V.); (J.S.); (C.A.); (B.C.); (M.K.); (N.G.G.)
- Centre for Child Health Research, University of Western Australia, Nedlands 6009, Australia
- Correspondence:
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15
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Wang SS, Bandopadhayay P, Jenkins MR. Towards Immunotherapy for Pediatric Brain Tumors. Trends Immunol 2019; 40:748-761. [PMID: 31229353 DOI: 10.1016/j.it.2019.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2019] [Revised: 05/12/2019] [Accepted: 05/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Pediatric brain tumors are the leading cause of childhood cancer-related death. Immunotherapy is a powerful new approach for treating some refractory cancers; applying this 'fourth pillar' of cancer treatment to pediatric brain tumors is an exciting but challenging prospect. This review offers new perspectives on moving towards successful immunotherapy for pediatric brain tumors, focusing on pediatric high-grade glioma (HGG), a subgroup with universally poor outcomes. We cover chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR-T) therapy, vaccine therapy, and checkpoint inhibition in this context, and focus on the need for intimately understanding the growing brain and its immune system. We highlight the challenges associated with the application of immunotherapy in pediatric neuro-oncology, as well as the tissue-specific challenges to be overcome, to achieve improved outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacie Shiqi Wang
- Immunology Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Pratiti Bandopadhayay
- Dana-Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Misty Rayna Jenkins
- Immunology Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia.
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16
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Introduction to the Special Issue on Pediatric Neuro-Oncology. Bioengineering (Basel) 2018; 5:bioengineering5040109. [PMID: 30544889 PMCID: PMC6315802 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering5040109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2018] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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