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Sadlecki P, Walentowicz-Sadlecka M. Molecular landscape of borderline ovarian tumours: A systematic review. Open Med (Wars) 2024; 19:20240976. [PMID: 38859878 PMCID: PMC11163159 DOI: 10.1515/med-2024-0976] [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: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Borderline ovarian tumours (BOTs) show intriguing characteristics distinguishing them from other ovarian tumours. The aim of the systematic review was to analyse the spectrum of molecular changes found in BOTs and discuss their significance in the context of the overall therapeutic approach. The systematic review included articles published between 2000 and 2023 in the databases: PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane. After a detailed analysis of the available publications, we qualified for the systematic review: 28 publications on proto-oncogenes: BRAF, KRAS, NRAS, ERBB2, and PIK3CA, 20 publications on tumour suppressor genes: BRCA1/2, ARID1A, CHEK2, PTEN, 4 on adhesion molecules: CADM1, 8 on proteins: B-catenin, claudin-1, and 5 on glycoproteins: E-Cadherin. In addition, in the further part of the systematic review, we included eight publications on microsatellite instability and three describing loss of heterozygosity in BOT. Molecular changes found in BOTs can vary on a case-by-case basis, identifying carcinogenic mutations through molecular analysis and developing targeted therapies represent significant advancements in the diagnosis and treatment of ovarian malignancies. Molecular studies have contributed significantly to our understanding of BOT pathogenesis, but substantial research is still required to elucidate the relationship between ovarian neoplasms and extraneous disease, identify accurate prognostic indicators, and develop targeted therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pawel Sadlecki
- Medical Department, University of Science and Technology, Bydgoszcz, Poland
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Regional Polyclinical Hospital, Grudziadz, Poland
| | - Malgorzata Walentowicz-Sadlecka
- Medical Department, University of Science and Technology, Bydgoszcz, Poland
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Regional Polyclinical Hospital, Grudziadz, Poland
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2
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Mehrotra M, Phadte P, Shenoy P, Chakraborty S, Gupta S, Ray P. Drug-Resistant Epithelial Ovarian Cancer: Current and Future Perspectives. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2024; 1452:65-96. [PMID: 38805125 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-58311-7_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is a complex disease with diverse histological subtypes, which, based on the aggressiveness and course of disease progression, have recently been broadly grouped into type I (low-grade serous, endometrioid, clear cell, and mucinous) and type II (high-grade serous, high-grade endometrioid, and undifferentiated carcinomas) categories. Despite substantial differences in pathogenesis, genetics, prognosis, and treatment response, clinical diagnosis and management of EOC remain similar across the subtypes. Debulking surgery combined with platinum-taxol-based chemotherapy serves as the initial treatment for High Grade Serous Ovarian Carcinoma (HGSOC), the most prevalent one, and for other subtypes, but most patients exhibit intrinsic or acquired resistance and recur in short duration. Targeted therapies, such as anti-angiogenics (e.g., bevacizumab) and PARP inhibitors (for BRCA-mutated cancers), offer some success, but therapy resistance, through various mechanisms, poses a significant challenge. This comprehensive chapter delves into emerging strategies to address these challenges, highlighting factors like aberrant miRNAs, metabolism, apoptosis evasion, cancer stem cells, and autophagy, which play pivotal roles in mediating resistance and disease relapse in EOC. Beyond standard treatments, the focus of this study extends to alternate targeted agents, including immunotherapies like checkpoint inhibitors, CAR T cells, and vaccines, as well as inhibitors targeting key oncogenic pathways in EOC. Additionally, this chapter covers disease classification, diagnosis, resistance pathways, standard treatments, and clinical data on various emerging approaches, and advocates for a nuanced and personalized approach tailored to individual subtypes and resistance mechanisms, aiming to enhance therapeutic outcomes across the spectrum of EOC subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megha Mehrotra
- Imaging Cell Signalling & Therapeutics Lab, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer-Tata Memorial Centre, Navi Mumbai, India
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - Pratham Phadte
- Imaging Cell Signalling & Therapeutics Lab, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer-Tata Memorial Centre, Navi Mumbai, India
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - Priti Shenoy
- Imaging Cell Signalling & Therapeutics Lab, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer-Tata Memorial Centre, Navi Mumbai, India
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - Sourav Chakraborty
- Imaging Cell Signalling & Therapeutics Lab, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer-Tata Memorial Centre, Navi Mumbai, India
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - Sudeep Gupta
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
- Department of Medical Oncology, Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, India
| | - Pritha Ray
- Imaging Cell Signalling & Therapeutics Lab, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer-Tata Memorial Centre, Navi Mumbai, India.
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India.
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3
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Galhenage P, Zhou Y, Perry E, Loc B, Fietz K, Iyer S, Reinhardt F, Da Silva T, Botchkarev V, Chen J, Crum CP, Weinberg RA, Pathania S. Replication stress and defective checkpoints make fallopian tube epithelial cells putative drivers of high-grade serous ovarian cancer. Cell Rep 2023; 42:113144. [PMID: 37729060 PMCID: PMC10762650 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Clinical and molecular evidence indicates that high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) primarily originates from the fallopian tube, not the ovarian surface. However, the reasons for this preference remain unclear. Our study highlights significant differences between fallopian tube epithelial (FTE) and ovarian surface epithelial (OSE) cells, providing the molecular basis for FTEs as site of origin of HGSOC. FTEs, unlike OSEs, exhibit heightened replication stress (RS), impaired repair of stalled forks, ineffective G2/M checkpoint, and increased tumorigenicity. BRCA1 heterozygosity exacerbates these defects, resulting in RS suppression haploinsufficiency and an aggressive tumor phenotype. Examination of human and mouse sections reveals buildup of the RS marker 53BP1 primarily in the fallopian tubes, particularly at the fimbrial ends. Furthermore, menopausal status influences RS levels. Our study provides a mechanistic rationale for FTE as the site of origin for HGSOC, investigates the impact of BRCA1 heterozygosity, and lays the groundwork for targeting early HGSOC drivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamoda Galhenage
- Center for Personalized Cancer Therapy, Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA 02125, USA
| | - Yunlan Zhou
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Erica Perry
- Center for Personalized Cancer Therapy, Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA 02125, USA
| | - Brenda Loc
- Center for Personalized Cancer Therapy, Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA 02125, USA
| | - Kelly Fietz
- Center for Personalized Cancer Therapy, Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA 02125, USA
| | - Sonia Iyer
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, 455 Main Street, WHTH-367, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Ferenc Reinhardt
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, 455 Main Street, WHTH-367, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Tiego Da Silva
- Center for Personalized Cancer Therapy, Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA 02125, USA
| | | | - Jie Chen
- Department of Mathematics, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA 02125, USA
| | - Christopher P Crum
- Department of Pathology, Division of Women's and Perinatal Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Robert A Weinberg
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, 455 Main Street, WHTH-367, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Shailja Pathania
- Center for Personalized Cancer Therapy, Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA 02125, USA.
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4
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Akinjiyan FA, Morecroft R, Phillipps J, Adeyelu T, Elliott A, Park SJ, Butt OH, Zhou AY, Ansstas G. Homologous Recombination Deficiency (HRD) in Cutaneous Oncology. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10771. [PMID: 37445949 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310771] [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: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Skin cancers, including basal cell carcinoma (BCC), cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma, are the most common malignancies in the United States. Loss of DNA repair pathways in the skin plays a significant role in tumorigenesis. In recent years, targeting DNA repair pathways, particularly homologous recombination deficiency (HRD), has emerged as a potential therapeutic approach in cutaneous malignancies. This review provides an overview of DNA damage and repair pathways, with a focus on HRD, and discusses major advances in targeting these pathways in skin cancers. Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors have been developed to exploit HRD in cancer cells. PARP inhibitors disrupt DNA repair mechanisms by inhibiting PARP enzymatic activity, leading to the accumulation of DNA damage and cell death. The concept of synthetic lethality has been demonstrated in HR-deficient cells, such as those with BRCA1/2 mutations, which exhibit increased sensitivity to PARP inhibitors. HRD assessment methods, including genomic scars, RAD51 foci formation, functional assays, and BRCA1/2 mutation analysis, are discussed as tools for identifying patients who may benefit from PARP inhibitor therapy. Furthermore, HRD has been implicated in the response to immunotherapy, and the combination of PARP inhibitors with immunotherapy has shown promising results. The frequency of HRD in melanoma ranges from 18% to 57%, and studies investigating the use of PARP inhibitors as monotherapy in melanoma are limited. Further research is warranted to explore the potential of PARP inhibition in melanoma treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Favour A Akinjiyan
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University in Saint Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Renee Morecroft
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University in Saint Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Jordan Phillipps
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University in Saint Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | | | | | - Soo J Park
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Omar H Butt
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University in Saint Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Alice Y Zhou
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University in Saint Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - George Ansstas
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University in Saint Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
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5
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Keles H, Schofield CA, Rannikmae H, Edwards EE, Mohamet L. A Scalable 3D High-Content Imaging Protocol for Measuring a Drug Induced DNA Damage Response Using Immunofluorescent Subnuclear γH2AX Spots in Patient Derived Ovarian Cancer Organoids. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2022; 6:12-21. [PMID: 36654745 PMCID: PMC9841773 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.2c00200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The high morbidity rate of ovarian cancer has remained unchanged during the past four decades, partly due to a lack of understanding of disease mechanisms and difficulties in developing new targeted therapies. Defective DNA damage detection and repair is one of the hallmarks of cancer cells and is a defining characteristic of ovarian cancer. Most in vitro studies to date involve viability measurements at scale using relevant cancer cell lines; however, the translation to the clinic is often lacking. The use of patient derived organoids is closing that translational gap, yet the 3D nature of organoid cultures presents challenges for assay measurements beyond viability measurements. In particular, high-content imaging has the potential for screening at scale, providing a better understanding of the mechanism of action of drugs or genetic perturbagens. In this study we report a semiautomated and scalable immunofluorescence imaging assay utilizing the development of a 384-well plate based subnuclear staining and clearing protocol and optimization of 3D confocal image analysis for studying DNA damage dose response in human ovarian cancer organoids. The assay was validated in four organoid models and demonstrated a predictable response to etoposide drug treatment with the lowest efficacy observed in the clinically most resistant model. This imaging and analysis method can be applied to other 3D organoid and spheroid models for use in high content screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hakan Keles
- Genome
Biology, Genomic Sciences, R&D, GSK, Gunnels Wood Road, Stevenage, SG1 2NY, United Kingdom,E-mail: ,
| | - Christopher A. Schofield
- Genome
Biology, Genomic Sciences, R&D, GSK, Gunnels Wood Road, Stevenage, SG1 2NY, United Kingdom
| | - Helena Rannikmae
- Complex
In Vitro Models, In Vitro In Vivo Translation, R&D, GSK, Gunnels Wood Road, Stevenage, SG1 2NY, United Kingdom
| | - Erin Elizabeth Edwards
- Genome
Biology, Genomic Sciences, R&D, GSK, 1250 S. Collegeville Road, Collegeville, Pennsylvania 19426, United States
| | - Lisa Mohamet
- Genome
Biology, Genomic Sciences, R&D, GSK, Gunnels Wood Road, Stevenage, SG1 2NY, United Kingdom
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6
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Konstantinopoulos PA, Gonzalez-Martin A, Cruz FM, Friedlander M, Glasspool R, Lorusso D, Marth C, Monk BJ, Kim JW, Hinson P, Ajipa O, Pretre V, Han Y, Matulonis UA. EPIK-O/ENGOT-OV61: alpelisib plus olaparib vs cytotoxic chemotherapy in high-grade serous ovarian cancer (phase III study). Future Oncol 2022; 18:3481-3492. [PMID: 36066851 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2022-0666] [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] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with platinum-resistant or -refractory high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) have a poor prognosis, and their management represents a substantial unmet medical need. Preclinical data and results from a phase Ib trial demonstrated the efficacy and tolerability of the combination of the α-specific phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor alpelisib plus the poly(adenosine diphosphate-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitor olaparib in platinum-resistant, non-BRCA-mutated ovarian cancer. Here, we describe the study design and rationale for the phase III, multicenter, open-label, randomized, active-controlled EPIK-O/ENGOT-OV61 trial investigating alpelisib in combination with olaparib compared with standard-of-care chemotherapy in patients with platinum-resistant or -refractory HGSOC with no germline BRCA mutation. Progression-free survival (blinded independent review committee) is the primary end point. Overall survival is a key secondary end point. Clinical Trial Registration:: NCT04729387 (ClinicalTrials.gov).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Antonio Gonzalez-Martin
- Clínica Universidad de Navarra & Program in Solid Tumors, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), Pamplona, 31008, Spain
| | - Felipe Melo Cruz
- Núcleo de Pesquisa e Ensino da Rede São Camilo, São Paulo, 04014-002, Brazil
| | - Michael Friedlander
- Department of Medical Oncology, Prince of Wales Hospital & Prince of Wales Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, 2031, Australia
| | - Rosalind Glasspool
- Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre & University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12, UK
| | - Domenica Lorusso
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A Gemelli IRCCS & Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Rome, 00168, Italy
| | - Christian Marth
- Medizinische Universität Innsbruck, Innsbruck, 6020, Austria
| | - Bradley J Monk
- HonorHealth Research Institute, University of Arizona, Creighton University, Phoenix, AZ 85012, USA
| | - Jae-Weon Kim
- Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, South Korea
| | - Patsy Hinson
- Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance (OCRA), New York, NY 10122, USA
| | - Olga Ajipa
- Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, East Hanover, NJ 07936, USA
| | - Vincent Pretre
- Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, East Hanover, NJ 07936, USA
| | - Yu Han
- Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, East Hanover, NJ 07936, USA
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7
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Bound NT, Vandenberg CJ, Kartikasari AER, Plebanski M, Scott CL. Improving PARP inhibitor efficacy in high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma: A focus on the immune system. Front Genet 2022; 13:886170. [PMID: 36159999 PMCID: PMC9505691 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.886170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
High-grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSOC) is a genomically unstable malignancy responsible for over 70% of all deaths due to ovarian cancer. With roughly 50% of all HGSOC harboring defects in the homologous recombination (HR) DNA repair pathway (e.g., BRCA1/2 mutations), the introduction of poly ADP-ribose polymerase inhibitors (PARPi) has dramatically improved outcomes for women with HR defective HGSOC. By blocking the repair of single-stranded DNA damage in cancer cells already lacking high-fidelity HR pathways, PARPi causes the accumulation of double-stranded DNA breaks, leading to cell death. Thus, this synthetic lethality results in PARPi selectively targeting cancer cells, resulting in impressive efficacy. Despite this, resistance to PARPi commonly develops through diverse mechanisms, such as the acquisition of secondary BRCA1/2 mutations. Perhaps less well documented is that PARPi can impact both the tumour microenvironment and the immune response, through upregulation of the stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway, upregulation of immune checkpoints such as PD-L1, and by stimulating the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Whilst targeted immunotherapies have not yet found their place in the clinic for HGSOC, the evidence above, as well as ongoing studies exploring the synergistic effects of PARPi with immune agents, including immune checkpoint inhibitors, suggests potential for targeting the immune response in HGSOC. Additionally, combining PARPi with epigenetic-modulating drugs may improve PARPi efficacy, by inducing a BRCA-defective phenotype to sensitise resistant cancer cells to PARPi. Finally, invigorating an immune response during PARPi therapy may engage anti-cancer immune responses that potentiate efficacy and mitigate the development of PARPi resistance. Here, we will review the emerging PARPi literature with a focus on PARPi effects on the immune response in HGSOC, as well as the potential of epigenetic combination therapies. We highlight the potential of transforming HGSOC from a lethal to a chronic disease and increasing the likelihood of cure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nirashaa T. Bound
- Cancer Biology and Stem Cells, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Cancer Ageing and Vaccines (CAVA), Translational Immunology & Nanotechnology Research Program, School of Health & Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Cassandra J. Vandenberg
- Cancer Biology and Stem Cells, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Apriliana E. R. Kartikasari
- Cancer Ageing and Vaccines (CAVA), Translational Immunology & Nanotechnology Research Program, School of Health & Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Magdalena Plebanski
- Cancer Ageing and Vaccines (CAVA), Translational Immunology & Nanotechnology Research Program, School of Health & Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Clare L. Scott
- Cancer Biology and Stem Cells, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Royal Women’s Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
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8
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The Role of ATR Inhibitors in Ovarian Cancer: Investigating Predictive Biomarkers of Response. Cells 2022; 11:cells11152361. [PMID: 35954206 PMCID: PMC9367423 DOI: 10.3390/cells11152361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Ataxia telangiectasia and Rad-3 related kinase (ATR) signals DNA lesions and replication stress (RS) to the S and G2/M checkpoints and DNA repair pathways making it a promising target to exploit the dysregulated DNA damage response in cancer. ATR inhibitors (ATRi) are under clinical investigation as monotherapy and in combination with other anticancer agents. Molecular determinants of sensitivity to ATRi are common in ovarian cancer, suggesting the therapeutic potential of ATRi. We investigated the cytotoxicity of the ATRi, VE-821, in a panel of human ovarian cancer cell lines. High grade serous (HGS) cell lines were significantly more sensitive to VE-821 than non-HGS (p ≤ 0.0001) but previously identified determinants of sensitivity (TP53, ATM and BRCA1) were not predictive. Only low RAD51 (p = 0.041), TopBP1 (p = 0.026) and APOBEC3B (p = 0.015) protein expression were associated with increased VE-821 sensitivity. HGS cells had increased levels of RS (pRPASer4/8 and γH2AX nuclear immunofluorescence), and elevated RS predicted sensitivity to VE-821 independently of the cell line subtype. These data suggest that functional assessment of RS biomarkers may be a better predictive biomarker of ATRi response than any single aberrant gene in ovarian cancer and potentially other cancers.
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Toward More Comprehensive Homologous Recombination Deficiency Assays in Ovarian Cancer, Part 1: Technical Considerations. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14051132. [PMID: 35267439 PMCID: PMC8909526 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14051132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary High-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) is the most frequent and lethal form of ovarian cancer and is associated with homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) in 50% of cases. This specific alteration is associated with sensitivity to PARP inhibitors (PARPis). Despite vast prognostic improvements due to PARPis, current molecular assays assessing HRD status suffer from several limitations, and there is an urgent need for a more accurate evaluation. In these companion reviews (Part 1: Technical considerations; Part 2: Medical perspectives), we develop an integrative review to provide physicians and researchers involved in HGSOC management with a holistic perspective, from translational research to clinical applications. Abstract High-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC), the most frequent and lethal form of ovarian cancer, exhibits homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) in 50% of cases. In addition to mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2, which are the best known thus far, defects can also be caused by diverse alterations to homologous recombination-related genes or epigenetic patterns. HRD leads to genomic instability (genomic scars) and is associated with PARP inhibitor (PARPi) sensitivity. HRD is currently assessed through BRCA1/2 analysis, which produces a genomic instability score (GIS). However, despite substantial clinical achievements, FDA-approved companion diagnostics (CDx) based on GISs have important limitations. Indeed, despite the use of GIS in clinical practice, the relevance of such assays remains controversial. Although international guidelines include companion diagnostics as part of HGSOC frontline management, they also underscore the need for more powerful and alternative approaches for assessing patient eligibility to PARP inhibitors. In these companion reviews, we review and present evidence to date regarding HRD definitions, achievements and limitations in HGSOC. Part 1 is dedicated to technical considerations and proposed perspectives that could lead to a more comprehensive and dynamic assessment of HR, while Part 2 provides a more integrated approach for clinicians.
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Quesada S, Fabbro M, Solassol J. Toward More Comprehensive Homologous Recombination Deficiency Assays in Ovarian Cancer Part 2: Medical Perspectives. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14041098. [PMID: 35205846 PMCID: PMC8870335 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14041098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary High-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC—the most frequent and aggressive form of ovarian cancer) represents an important challenge for clinicians. Half of HGSOC cases exhibit homologous recombination deficiency (HRD), mainly through alterations in BRCA1 and BRCA2. This leads to sensitivity to PARP inhibitors, a novel class of breakthrough molecules that improved HGSOC prognoses. To date, three companion diagnostic assays have received FDA approval for the evaluation of HRD status, but their use remains controversial. In this companion review (Part 1: Technical considerations; Part 2: Medical perspectives), we develop an integrative perspective, from translational research to clinical application, that could help physicians and researchers manage HGSOC. Abstract High-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) is the most frequent and aggressive form of ovarian cancer, representing an important challenge for clinicians. Half of HGSOC cases have homologous recombination deficiency (HRD), which has specific causes (mainly alterations in BRCA1/2, but also other alterations encompassed by the BRCAness concept) and consequences, both at molecular (e.g., genomic instability) and clinical (e.g., sensitivity to PARP inhibitor) levels. Based on its prevalence and clinical impact, HRD status merits investigation. To date, three PARP inhibitors have received FDA/EMA approval. For some approvals, the presence of specific molecular alterations is required. Three companion diagnostic (CDx) assays based on distinct technical and medical considerations have received FDA approval to date. However, their use remains controversial due to their technical and medical limitations. In this companion and integrated review, we take a “bench-to-bedside” perspective on HRD definition and evaluation in the context of HGSOC. Part 1 of the review adopts a molecular perspective regarding technical considerations and the development of CDx. Part 2 focuses on the clinical impact of HRD evaluation, primarily through currently validated CDx and prescription of PARP inhibitors, outlining achievements, limitations and medical perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stanislas Quesada
- Medical Oncology Department, Institut Régional du Cancer de Montpellier (ICM), 34298 Montpellier, France;
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Montpellier, 34090 Montpellier, France;
- Correspondence:
| | - Michel Fabbro
- Medical Oncology Department, Institut Régional du Cancer de Montpellier (ICM), 34298 Montpellier, France;
- Montpellier Research Cancer Institute (IRCM), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) U1194, University of Montpellier, 34298 Montpellier, France
| | - Jérôme Solassol
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Montpellier, 34090 Montpellier, France;
- Montpellier Research Cancer Institute (IRCM), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) U1194, University of Montpellier, 34298 Montpellier, France
- Department of Pathology and Onco-Biology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Montpellier, 34295 Montpellier, France
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11
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Keyvani V, Riahi E, Yousefi M, Esmaeili SA, Shafabakhsh R, Moradi Hasan-Abad A, Mahjoubin-Tehran M, Hamblin MR, Mollazadeh S, Mirzaei H. Gynecologic Cancer, Cancer Stem Cells, and Possible Targeted Therapies. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:823572. [PMID: 35250573 PMCID: PMC8888850 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.823572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Gynecologic cancer is one of the main causes of death in women. In this type of cancer, several molecules (oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes) contribute to the tumorigenic process, invasion, metastasis, and resistance to treatment. Based on recent evidence, the detection of molecular changes in these genes could have clinical importance for the early detection and evaluation of tumor grade, as well as the selection of targeted treatment. Researchers have recently focused on cancer stem cells (CSCs) in the treatment of gynecologic cancer because of their ability to induce progression and recurrence of malignancy. This has highlighted the importance of a better understanding of the molecular basis of CSCs. The purpose of this review is to focus on the molecular mechanism of gynecologic cancer and the role of CSCs to discover more specific therapeutic approaches to gynecologic cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vahideh Keyvani
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
- Medical Genetics Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Espanta Riahi
- Blood Borne Infections Research Center, Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research (ACECR), Mashhad, Iran; Department of Biology, Mashhad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Meysam Yousefi
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Seyed-Alireza Esmaeili
- Immunology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Rana Shafabakhsh
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Amin Moradi Hasan-Abad
- Autoimmune Diseases Research Center, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Maryam Mahjoubin-Tehran
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Nanotechnology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Michael R. Hamblin
- Laser Research Centre, Faculty of Health Science, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein, South Africa
| | - Samaneh Mollazadeh
- Natural Products and Medicinal Plants Research Center, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran
- *Correspondence: Samaneh Mollazadeh, ; Hamed Mirzaei, ,
| | - Hamed Mirzaei
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
- *Correspondence: Samaneh Mollazadeh, ; Hamed Mirzaei, ,
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Zhu L, Liu J, Chen J, Zhou Q. The developing landscape of combinatorial therapies of immune checkpoint blockade with DNA damage repair inhibitors for the treatment of breast and ovarian cancers. J Hematol Oncol 2021; 14:206. [PMID: 34930377 PMCID: PMC8686226 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-021-01218-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) using antibodies against programmed death receptor (PD)-1, PD ligand (PD-L)-1, and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4) has redefined the therapeutic landscape in solid tumors, including skin, lung, bladder, liver, renal, and breast tumors. However, overall response rates to ICB therapy remain limited in PD-L1-negative patients. Thus, rational and effective combination therapies will be needed to address ICB treatment resistance in these patients, as well as in PD-L1-positive patients who have progressed under ICB treatment. DNA damage repair inhibitors (DDRis) may activate T-cell responses and trigger inflammatory cytokines release and eventually immunogenic cancer cell death by amplifying DNA damage and generating immunogenic neoantigens, especially in DDR-defective tumors. DDRi may also lead to adaptive PD-L1 upregulation, providing a rationale for PD-L1/PD-1 blockade. Thus, based on preclinical evidence of efficacy and no significant overlapping toxicity, some ICB/DDRi combinations have rapidly progressed to clinical testing in breast and ovarian cancers. Here, we summarize the available clinical data on the combination of ICB with DDRi agents for treating breast and ovarian cancers and discuss the mechanisms of action and other lessons learned from translational studies conducted to date. We also review potential biomarkers to select patients most likely to respond to ICB/DDRi combination therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Zhu
- Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Jiewei Liu
- Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Jiang Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, Zhejiang Province, China.
| | - Qinghua Zhou
- Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan Province, China.
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Scotto G, Borella F, Turinetto M, Tuninetti V, Valsecchi AA, Giannone G, Cosma S, Benedetto C, Valabrega G. Biomarkers of Central Nervous System Involvement from Epithelial Ovarian Cancer. Cells 2021; 10:3408. [PMID: 34943916 PMCID: PMC8699445 DOI: 10.3390/cells10123408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is the leading cause of death among women affected by gynaecological malignancies. Most patients show advanced disease at diagnosis (FIGO stage III-IV) and, despite the introduction of new therapeutic options, most women experience relapses. In most cases, recurrence is abdominal-pelvic; however, EOC can occasionally metastasize to distant organs, including the central nervous system. The incidence of brain metastases (BMs) from EOC is low, but it has grown over time; currently, there are no follow-up strategies available. In the last decade, a few biomarkers able to predict the risk of developing BMs from OC or as potential therapeutic targets have been investigated by several authors; to date, none have entered clinical practice. The purpose of this review is to offer a summary on the role of the most relevant predictors of central nervous system (CNS) involvement (hormone receptors; BRCA; MRD1; PD-1/PD-L1) and to highlight possible therapeutic strategies for the management of metastatic brain disease in EOC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Scotto
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, 10123 Torino, Italy; (G.S.); (M.T.); (V.T.); (A.A.V.); (G.G.)
- Division of Medical Oncology, Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo, Italy
| | - Fulvio Borella
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1, Department of Surgical Sciences, City of Health and Science, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (F.B.); (S.C.); (C.B.)
| | - Margherita Turinetto
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, 10123 Torino, Italy; (G.S.); (M.T.); (V.T.); (A.A.V.); (G.G.)
- Division of Medical Oncology, Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo, Italy
| | - Valentina Tuninetti
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, 10123 Torino, Italy; (G.S.); (M.T.); (V.T.); (A.A.V.); (G.G.)
- Division of Medical Oncology, Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo, Italy
| | - Anna A. Valsecchi
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, 10123 Torino, Italy; (G.S.); (M.T.); (V.T.); (A.A.V.); (G.G.)
- Division of Medical Oncology, Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo, Italy
| | - Gaia Giannone
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, 10123 Torino, Italy; (G.S.); (M.T.); (V.T.); (A.A.V.); (G.G.)
- Division of Medical Oncology, Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo, Italy
| | - Stefano Cosma
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1, Department of Surgical Sciences, City of Health and Science, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (F.B.); (S.C.); (C.B.)
| | - Chiara Benedetto
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1, Department of Surgical Sciences, City of Health and Science, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (F.B.); (S.C.); (C.B.)
| | - Giorgio Valabrega
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, 10123 Torino, Italy; (G.S.); (M.T.); (V.T.); (A.A.V.); (G.G.)
- Division of Medical Oncology, Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo, Italy
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Ak N, Vatansever S. Dramatic response to single-agent atezolizumab in a patient with MSI-H serous ovarian cancer. J Clin Pharm Ther 2021; 46:1787-1791. [PMID: 33458824 DOI: 10.1111/jcpt.13364] [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: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
WHAT IS KNOWN AND OBJECTIVE Patients with ovarian cancer have not benefited substantially from immunotherapy. We report a case of ovarian cancer, however, that responded well to the programmed cell death-ligand 1 inhibitor atezolizumab. CASE SUMMARY A 64-year-old woman with recurrent ovarian carcinoma, not responsive to platinum/taxane and bevacizumab therapy, was BRCA normal but showed loss of MLH1 and PMS2 proteins. She was treated with atezolizumab. After the third cycle, her CA 125 levels decreased to normal. Radiologic evaluation showed a near-complete response. WHAT IS NEW AND CONCLUSION Identifying response markers is important when choosing therapy for ovarian cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naziye Ak
- Department of Medical Oncology, Institute of Oncology, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sezai Vatansever
- Department of Medical Oncology, Institute of Oncology, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
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15
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Frontline Management of Epithelial Ovarian Cancer-Combining Clinical Expertise with Community Practice Collaboration and Cutting-Edge Research. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9092830. [PMID: 32882942 PMCID: PMC7565288 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9092830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is the most common histology of ovarian cancer defined as epithelial cancer derived from the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or primary peritoneum. It is the fifth most common cause of cancer-related death in women in the United States. Because of a lack of effective screening and non-specific symptoms, EOC is typically diagnosed at an advanced stage (FIGO stage III or IV) and approximately one third of patients have malignant ascites at initial presentation. The treatment of ovarian cancer consists of a combination of cytoreductive surgery and systemic chemotherapy. Despite the advances with new cytotoxic and targeted therapies, the five-year survival rate for all-stage EOC in the United States is 48.6%. Delivery of up-to-date guideline care and multidisciplinary team efforts are important drivers of overall survival. In this paper, we review our frontline management of EOC that relies on a multi-disciplinary approach drawing on clinical expertise and collaboration combined with community practice and cutting edge clinical and translational research. By optimizing partnerships through team medicine and clinical research, we combine our cancer center clinical expertise, community practice partnership, and clinical and translational research to understand the biology of this deadly disease, advance therapy and connect our patients with the optimal treatment that offers the best possible outcomes.
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