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Ogino J, Dou Y. Histone methyltransferase KMT2A: Developmental regulation to oncogenic transformation. J Biol Chem 2024:107791. [PMID: 39303915 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107791] [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: 07/11/2024] [Revised: 09/09/2024] [Accepted: 09/10/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Our current understanding of epigenetic regulation is deeply rooted in the founding contributions of Dr. C. David Allis. In 2002, Allis and colleagues first characterized the lysine methyltransferase activity of the mammalian KMT2A (MLL1), a paradigm shifting discovery that brings epigenetic dysregulation into focus for many human diseases that carry KMT2A mutations. This review will discuss the current understanding of the multifaceted roles of KMT2A in development and disease, which has paved the way for innovative and upcoming approaches to cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayme Ogino
- Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90027, USA; Department of Medicine, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, USA
| | - Yali Dou
- Department of Medicine, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, USA.
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2
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Gu X, Wei S, Lv X. Circulating tumor cells: from new biological insights to clinical practice. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:226. [PMID: 39218931 PMCID: PMC11366768 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01938-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The primary reason for high mortality rates among cancer patients is metastasis, where tumor cells migrate through the bloodstream from the original site to other parts of the body. Recent advancements in technology have significantly enhanced our comprehension of the mechanisms behind the bloodborne spread of circulating tumor cells (CTCs). One critical process, DNA methylation, regulates gene expression and chromosome stability, thus maintaining dynamic equilibrium in the body. Global hypomethylation and locus-specific hypermethylation are examples of changes in DNA methylation patterns that are pivotal to carcinogenesis. This comprehensive review first provides an overview of the various processes that contribute to the formation of CTCs, including epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), immune surveillance, and colonization. We then conduct an in-depth analysis of how modifications in DNA methylation within CTCs impact each of these critical stages during CTC dissemination. Furthermore, we explored potential clinical implications of changes in DNA methylation in CTCs for patients with cancer. By understanding these epigenetic modifications, we can gain insights into the metastatic process and identify new biomarkers for early detection, prognosis, and targeted therapies. This review aims to bridge the gap between basic research and clinical application, highlighting the significance of DNA methylation in the context of cancer metastasis and offering new avenues for improving patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuyu Gu
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shiyou Wei
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Lv
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China.
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3
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Hayatigolkhatmi K, Valzelli R, El Menna O, Minucci S. Epigenetic alterations in AML: Deregulated functions leading to new therapeutic options. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 387:27-75. [PMID: 39179348 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2024.06.003] [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: 08/26/2024]
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) results in disruption of the hematopoietic differentiation process. Crucial progress has been made, and new therapeutic strategies for AML have been developed. Induction chemotherapy, however, remains the main option for the majority of AML patients. Epigenetic dysregulation plays a central role in AML pathogenesis, supporting leukemogenesis and maintenance of leukemic stem cells. Here, we provide an overview of the intricate interplay of altered epigenetic mechanisms, including DNA methylation, histone modifications, and chromatin remodeling, in AML development. We explore the role of epigenetic regulators, such as DNMTs, HMTs, KDMs, and HDACs, in mediating gene expression patterns pushing towards leukemic cell transformation. Additionally, we discuss the impact of cytogenetic lesions on epigenomic remodeling and the potential of targeting epigenetic vulnerabilities as a therapeutic strategy. Understanding the epigenetic landscape of AML offers insights into novel therapeutic avenues, including epigenetic modifiers and particularly their use in combination therapies, to improve treatment outcomes and overcome drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kourosh Hayatigolkhatmi
- Department of Experimental Oncology, IEO European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy.
| | - Riccardo Valzelli
- Department of Experimental Oncology, IEO European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Oualid El Menna
- Department of Experimental Oncology, IEO European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Saverio Minucci
- Department of Experimental Oncology, IEO European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy; Department of Hemato-Oncology, Università Statale di Milano, Milan, Italy.
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4
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Gu M, Ren B, Fang Y, Ren J, Liu X, Wang X, Zhou F, Xiao R, Luo X, You L, Zhao Y. Epigenetic regulation in cancer. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e495. [PMID: 38374872 PMCID: PMC10876210 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic modifications are defined as heritable changes in gene activity that do not involve changes in the underlying DNA sequence. The oncogenic process is driven by the accumulation of alterations that impact genome's structure and function. Genetic mutations, which directly disrupt the DNA sequence, are complemented by epigenetic modifications that modulate gene expression, thereby facilitating the acquisition of malignant characteristics. Principals among these epigenetic changes are shifts in DNA methylation and histone mark patterns, which promote tumor development and metastasis. Notably, the reversible nature of epigenetic alterations, as opposed to the permanence of genetic changes, positions the epigenetic machinery as a prime target in the discovery of novel therapeutics. Our review delves into the complexities of epigenetic regulation, exploring its profound effects on tumor initiation, metastatic behavior, metabolic pathways, and the tumor microenvironment. We place a particular emphasis on the dysregulation at each level of epigenetic modulation, including but not limited to, the aberrations in enzymes responsible for DNA methylation and histone modification, subunit loss or fusions in chromatin remodeling complexes, and the disturbances in higher-order chromatin structure. Finally, we also evaluate therapeutic approaches that leverage the growing understanding of chromatin dysregulation, offering new avenues for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minzhi Gu
- Department of General SurgeryPeking Union Medical College HospitalPeking Union Medical CollegeChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic TumorChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College HospitalBeijingP. R. China
| | - Bo Ren
- Department of General SurgeryPeking Union Medical College HospitalPeking Union Medical CollegeChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic TumorChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College HospitalBeijingP. R. China
| | - Yuan Fang
- Department of General SurgeryPeking Union Medical College HospitalPeking Union Medical CollegeChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic TumorChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College HospitalBeijingP. R. China
| | - Jie Ren
- Department of General SurgeryPeking Union Medical College HospitalPeking Union Medical CollegeChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic TumorChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College HospitalBeijingP. R. China
| | - Xiaohong Liu
- Department of General SurgeryPeking Union Medical College HospitalPeking Union Medical CollegeChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic TumorChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College HospitalBeijingP. R. China
| | - Xing Wang
- Department of General SurgeryPeking Union Medical College HospitalPeking Union Medical CollegeChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic TumorChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College HospitalBeijingP. R. China
| | - Feihan Zhou
- Department of General SurgeryPeking Union Medical College HospitalPeking Union Medical CollegeChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic TumorChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College HospitalBeijingP. R. China
| | - Ruiling Xiao
- Department of General SurgeryPeking Union Medical College HospitalPeking Union Medical CollegeChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic TumorChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College HospitalBeijingP. R. China
| | - Xiyuan Luo
- Department of General SurgeryPeking Union Medical College HospitalPeking Union Medical CollegeChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic TumorChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College HospitalBeijingP. R. China
| | - Lei You
- Department of General SurgeryPeking Union Medical College HospitalPeking Union Medical CollegeChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic TumorChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College HospitalBeijingP. R. China
| | - Yupei Zhao
- Department of General SurgeryPeking Union Medical College HospitalPeking Union Medical CollegeChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic TumorChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijingP. R. China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College HospitalBeijingP. R. China
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Peroni E, Randi ML, Rosato A, Cagnin S. Acute myeloid leukemia: from NGS, through scRNA-seq, to CAR-T. dissect cancer heterogeneity and tailor the treatment. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2023; 42:259. [PMID: 37803464 PMCID: PMC10557350 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02841-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a malignant blood cancer with marked cellular heterogeneity due to altered maturation and differentiation of myeloid blasts, the possible causes of which are transcriptional or epigenetic alterations, impaired apoptosis, and excessive cell proliferation. This neoplasm has a high rate of resistance to anticancer therapies and thus a high risk of relapse and mortality because of both the biological diversity of the patient and intratumoral heterogeneity due to the acquisition of new somatic changes. For more than 40 years, the old gold standard "one size fits all" treatment approach included intensive chemotherapy treatment with anthracyclines and cytarabine.The manuscript first traces the evolution of the understanding of the pathology from the 1970s to the present. The enormous strides made in its categorization prove to be crucial for risk stratification, enabling an increasingly personalized diagnosis and treatment approach.Subsequently, we highlight how, over the past 15 years, technological advances enabling single cell RNA sequencing and T-cell modification based on the genomic tools are affecting the classification and treatment of AML. At the dawn of the new millennium, the advent of high-throughput next-generation sequencing technologies has enabled the profiling of patients evidencing different facets of the same disease, stratifying risk, and identifying new possible therapeutic targets that have subsequently been validated. Currently, the possibility of investigating tumor heterogeneity at the single cell level, profiling the tumor at the time of diagnosis or after treatments exist. This would allow the identification of underrepresented cellular subclones or clones resistant to therapeutic approaches and thus responsible for post-treatment relapse that would otherwise be difficult to detect with bulk investigations on the tumor biopsy. Single-cell investigation will then allow even greater personalization of therapy to the genetic and transcriptional profile of the tumor, saving valuable time and dangerous side effects. The era of personalized medicine will take a huge step forward through the disclosure of each individual piece of the complex puzzle that is cancer pathology, to implement a "tailored" therapeutic approach based also on engineered CAR-T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edoardo Peroni
- Immunology and Molecular Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology, IOV-IRCCS, Padova, 35128, Italy.
| | - Maria Luigia Randi
- First Medical Clinic, Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Antonio Rosato
- Immunology and Molecular Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology, IOV-IRCCS, Padova, 35128, Italy
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Stefano Cagnin
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Padova, 35131, Italy
- CIR-Myo Myology Center, University of Padova, Padova, 35131, Italy
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Tosic N, Marjanovic I, Lazic J. Pediatric acute myeloid leukemia: Insight into genetic landscape and novel targeted approaches. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 215:115705. [PMID: 37532055 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a very heterogeneous hematological malignancy that accounts for approximately 20% of all pediatric leukemia cases. The outcome of pediatric AML has improved over the last decades, with overall survival rates reaching up to 70%. Still, AML is among the leading types of pediatric cancers by its high mortality rate. Modulation of standard therapy, like chemotherapy intensification, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and optimized supportive care, could only get this far, but for the significant improvement of the outcome in pediatric AML, development of novel targeted therapy approaches is necessary. In recent years the advances in genomic techniques have greatly expanded our knowledge of the AML biology, revealing molecular landscape and complexity of the disease, which in turn have led to the identification of novel therapeutic targets. This review provides a brief overview of the genetic landscape of pediatric AML, and how it's used for precise molecular characterization and risk stratification of the patients, and also for the development of effective targeted therapy. Furthermore, this review presents recent advances in molecular targeted therapy and immunotherapy with an emphasis on the therapeutic approaches with significant clinical benefits for pediatric AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasa Tosic
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, Laboratory for Molecular Biomedicine, University of Belgrade, Serbia.
| | - Irena Marjanovic
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, Laboratory for Molecular Biomedicine, University of Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jelena Lazic
- University Children's Hospital, Department for Hematology and Oncology, Belgrade, Serbia; Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Serbia
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7
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Davalos V, Esteller M. Cancer epigenetics in clinical practice. CA Cancer J Clin 2022. [PMID: 36512337 DOI: 10.3322/caac.21765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer development is driven by the accumulation of alterations affecting the structure and function of the genome. Whereas genetic changes disrupt the DNA sequence, epigenetic alterations contribute to the acquisition of hallmark tumor capabilities by regulating gene expression programs that promote tumorigenesis. Shifts in DNA methylation and histone mark patterns, the two main epigenetic modifications, orchestrate tumor progression and metastasis. These cancer-specific events have been exploited as useful tools for diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment choice to aid clinical decision making. Moreover, the reversibility of epigenetic modifications, in contrast to the irreversibility of genetic changes, has made the epigenetic machinery an attractive target for drug development. This review summarizes the most advanced applications of epigenetic biomarkers and epigenetic drugs in the clinical setting, highlighting commercially available DNA methylation-based assays and epigenetic drugs already approved by the US Food and Drug Administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Davalos
- Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute, Badalona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Manel Esteller
- Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute, Badalona, Catalonia, Spain
- Centro de Investigacion Biomedica en Red Cancer, Madrid, Spain
- Physiological Sciences Department, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- Institucio Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avancats, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
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8
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Zhang LQ, Yang H, Liu JJ, Zhang LR, Hao YD, Guo JM, Lin H. Recognition of driver genes with potential prognostic implications in lung adenocarcinoma based on H3K79me2. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2022; 20:5535-5546. [PMID: 36249560 PMCID: PMC9556929 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2022.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2022] [Revised: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The efficacy of H3K79me2 on gene expression regulation is affirmed in LUAD. An open-source algorithm for identifying LUAD-related driver genes is presented. 12 H3K79me2-targeted driver genes with clinical values are verified by qPCR. The regions with obvious H3K79me2 signals changes on driver genes are pinpointed.
Lung adenocarcinoma is a malignancy with a low overall survival and a poor prognosis. Studies have shown that lung adenocarcinoma progression relates to locus-specific/global changes in histone modifications. To explore the relationship between histone modification and gene expression changes, we focused on 11 histone modifications and quantitatively analyzed their influences on gene expression. We found that, among the studied histone modifications, H3K79me2 displayed the greatest impact on gene expression regulation. Based on the Shannon entropy, 867 genes with differential H3K79me2 levels during tumorigenesis were identified. Enrichment analyses showed that these genes were involved in 16 common cancer pathways and 11 tumors and were target-regulated by trans-regulatory elements, such as Tp53 and WT1. Then, an open-source computational framework was presented (https://github.com/zlq-imu/Identification-of-potential-LUND-driver-genes). Twelve potential driver genes were extracted from the genes with differential H3K79me2 levels during tumorigenesis. The expression levels of these potential driver genes were significantly increased/decreased in tumor cells, as assayed by RT–qPCR. A risk score model comprising these driver genes was further constructed, and this model was strongly negatively associated with the overall survival of patients in different datasets. The proportional hazards assumption and outlier test indicated that this model could robustly distinguish patients with different survival rates. Immune analyses and responses to immunotherapeutic and chemotherapeutic agents showed that patients in the high and low-risk groups may have distinct tendencies for clinical selection. Finally, the regions with clear H3K79me2 signal changes on these driver genes were accurately identified. Our research may offer potential molecular biomarkers for lung adenocarcinoma treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu-Qiang Zhang
- Laboratory of Theoretical Biophysics, School of Physical Science and Technology, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot 010021, China,Corresponding authors.
| | - Hao Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Inner Mongolia Cancer Hospital and Affiliated People's Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot 010020, China
| | - Jun-Jie Liu
- Laboratory of Theoretical Biophysics, School of Physical Science and Technology, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot 010021, China
| | - Li-Rong Zhang
- Laboratory of Theoretical Biophysics, School of Physical Science and Technology, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot 010021, China
| | - Yu-Duo Hao
- Laboratory of Theoretical Biophysics, School of Physical Science and Technology, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot 010021, China
| | - Jun-Mei Guo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Inner Mongolia Cancer Hospital and Affiliated People's Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot 010020, China
| | - Hao Lin
- School of Life Science and Technology, Center for Informational Biology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, China,Corresponding authors.
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Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for pediatric acute myeloid leukemia in first complete remission: a meta-analysis. Ann Hematol 2022; 101:2497-2506. [PMID: 36038660 PMCID: PMC9546991 DOI: 10.1007/s00277-022-04965-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Identification of pediatric patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) candidates to receive allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) in first complete remission (CR1) is still a matter of debate. Currently, transplantation is reserved to patients considered at high risk of relapse based on cytogenetics, molecular biology, and minimal residual disease (MRD) assessment. However, no randomized clinical trial exists in the literature comparing transplantation with other types of consolidation therapy. Here, we provide an up-to-date meta-analysis of studies comparing allo-HSCT in CR1 with chemotherapy alone as a post-remission treatment in high-risk pediatric AML. The literature search strategy identified 10 cohorts from 9 studies performing as-treated analysis. The quantitative synthesis showed improved overall survival (OS) (relative risk, 1.15; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.06-1.24; P = 0.0006) and disease-free survival (relative risk, 1.31; 95% CI, 1.17-1.47; P = 0.0001) in the allo-HSCT group, with increased relapse rate in the chemotherapy group (relative risk, 1.26; 95% CI, 1.07-1.49; P = 0.006). Sensitivity analysis including prospective studies alone and excluding studies that reported the comparison only on intermediate-risk patients confirmed the benefit of allo-HSCT on OS. Further research should focus on individualizing allo-HSCT indications based on molecular stratification and MRD monitoring.
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Chemical biology and pharmacology of histone lysine methylation inhibitors. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2022; 1865:194840. [PMID: 35753676 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2022.194840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Histone lysine methylation is a post-translational modification that plays a key role in the epigenetic regulation of a broad spectrum of biological processes. Moreover, the dysregulation of histone lysine methyltransferases (KMTs) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of several diseases particularly cancer. Due to their pathobiological importance, KMTs have garnered immense attention over the last decade as attractive therapeutic targets. These endeavors have culminated in tens of chemical probes that have been used to interrogate many aspects of histone lysine methylation. Besides, over a dozen inhibitors have been advanced to clinical trials, including the EZH2 inhibitor tazemetostat approved for the treatment of follicular lymphoma and advanced epithelioid sarcoma. In this Review, we highlight the chemical biology and pharmacology of KMT inhibitors and targeted protein degraders focusing on the clinical development of EZH1/2, DOT1L, Menin-MLL, and WDR5-MLL inhibitors. We also briefly discuss the pharmacologic targeting of other KMTs.
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High-Risk Acute Myeloid Leukemia: A Pediatric Prospective. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10061405. [PMID: 35740427 PMCID: PMC9220202 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10061405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Pediatric acute myeloid leukemia is a clonal disorder characterized by malignant transformation of the hematopoietic stem cell. The incidence and the outcome remain inferior when compared to pediatric ALL, although prognosis has improved in the last decades, with 80% overall survival rate reported in some studies. The standard therapeutic approach is a combined cytarabine and anthracycline-based regimen followed by consolidation with allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT) for high-risk AML and allo-SCT for non-high-risk patients only in second complete remission after relapse. In the last decade, several drugs have been used in clinical trials to improve outcomes in pediatric AML treatment.
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12
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Quinazoline-based analog of adenine as an antidote against MLL-rearranged leukemia cells: synthesis, inhibition assays and docking studies. Future Med Chem 2022; 14:557-570. [PMID: 35332778 DOI: 10.4155/fmc-2021-0251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Post-translational modifications of histones constitute a dynamic process impacting gene expression. A well-studied modification is lysine methylation. Among the lysine histone methyltransferases, DOT1L is implicated in various diseases, making it a very interesting target for drug discovery. DOT1L has two substrates, the SAM cofactor that gives the methyl group and the lysine H3K79 substrate. Results: Using molecular docking, the authors explored new bisubstrate analogs to enlarge the chemical landscape of DOT1L inhibitors. The authors showed that quinazoline can successfully replace the adenine in the design of bisubstrate inhibitors of DOT1L, showing similar activity compared with the adenine derivative but with diminished cytotoxicity. Conclusion: The docking model is validated together with the use of quinazoline in the design of bisubstrate inhibitors.
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Lejman M, Dziatkiewicz I, Jurek M. Straight to the Point-The Novel Strategies to Cure Pediatric AML. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:1968. [PMID: 35216084 PMCID: PMC8878466 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23041968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the outcome has improved over the past decades, due to improved supportive care, a better understanding of risk factors, and intensified chemotherapy, pediatric acute myeloid leukemia remains a life-threatening disease, and overall survival (OS) remains near 70%. According to French-American-British (FAB) classification, AML is divided into eight subtypes (M0-M7), and each is characterized by a different pathogenesis and response to treatment. However, the curability of AML is due to the intensification of standard chemotherapy, more precise risk classification, improvements in supportive care, and the use of minimal residual disease to monitor response to therapy. The treatment of childhood AML continues to be based primarily on intensive, conventional chemotherapy. Therefore, it is essential to identify new, more precise molecules that are targeted to the specific abnormalities of each leukemia subtype. Here, we review abnormalities that are potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of AML in the pediatric population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Lejman
- Laboratory of Genetic Diagnostics, II Faculty of Pediatrics, Medical University of Lublin, A. Gębali 6, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Izabela Dziatkiewicz
- Student Scientific Society, Laboratory of Genetic Diagnostics, II Faculty of Pediatrics, Medical University of Lublin, A. Gębali 6, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (I.D.); (M.J.)
| | - Mateusz Jurek
- Student Scientific Society, Laboratory of Genetic Diagnostics, II Faculty of Pediatrics, Medical University of Lublin, A. Gębali 6, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (I.D.); (M.J.)
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Solana-Altabella A, Ballesta-López O, Megías-Vericat JE, Martínez-Cuadrón D, Montesinos P. Emerging FLT3 inhibitors for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia. Expert Opin Emerg Drugs 2022; 27:1-18. [DOI: 10.1080/14728214.2021.2009800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Solana-Altabella
- Servicio de Farmacia, Área del Medicamento. Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe. Av. Fernando Abril Martorell, Valencia– Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IISLAFE). Av. Fernando Abril Martorell, Valencia–Spain
| | - Octavio Ballesta-López
- Servicio de Farmacia, Área del Medicamento. Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe. Av. Fernando Abril Martorell, Valencia– Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IISLAFE). Av. Fernando Abril Martorell, Valencia–Spain
| | - Juan Eduardo Megías-Vericat
- Servicio de Farmacia, Área del Medicamento. Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe. Av. Fernando Abril Martorell, Valencia– Spain
| | - David Martínez-Cuadrón
- Servicio de Farmacia, Área del Medicamento. Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe. Av. Fernando Abril Martorell, Valencia– Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IISLAFE). Av. Fernando Abril Martorell, Valencia–Spain
| | - Pau Montesinos
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IISLAFE). Av. Fernando Abril Martorell, Valencia–Spain
- Servicio de Hematología y Hemoterapia. Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe. Av. Fernando Abril Martorell, Valencia-Spain
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15
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Insights into Modern Therapeutic Approaches in Pediatric Acute Leukemias. Cells 2022; 11:cells11010139. [PMID: 35011701 PMCID: PMC8749975 DOI: 10.3390/cells11010139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Pediatric cancers predominantly constitute lymphomas and leukemias. Recently, our knowledge and awareness about genetic diversities, and their consequences in these diseases, have greatly expanded. Modern solutions are focused on mobilizing and impacting a patient’s immune system. Strategies to stimulate the immune system, to prime an antitumor response, are of intense interest. Amid those types of therapies are chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cells, bispecific antibodies, and antibody–drug conjugates (ADC), which have already been approved in the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL)/acute myeloid leukemia (AML). In addition, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), the pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), i.e., NOD-like receptors (NLRs), Toll-like receptors (TLRs), and several kinds of therapy antibodies are well on their way to showing significant benefits for patients with these diseases. This review summarizes the current knowledge of modern methods used in selected pediatric malignancies and presents therapies that may hold promise for the future.
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16
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Blasi F, Bruckmann C. MEIS1 in Hematopoiesis and Cancer. How MEIS1-PBX Interaction Can Be Used in Therapy. J Dev Biol 2021; 9:jdb9040044. [PMID: 34698191 PMCID: PMC8544432 DOI: 10.3390/jdb9040044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently MEIS1 emerged as a major determinant of the MLL-r leukemic phenotype. The latest and most efficient drugs effectively decrease the levels of MEIS1 in cancer cells. Together with an overview of the latest drugs developed to target MEIS1 in MLL-r leukemia, we review, in detail, the role of MEIS1 in embryonic and adult hematopoiesis and suggest how a more profound knowledge of MEIS1 biochemistry can be used to design potent and effective drugs against MLL-r leukemia. In addition, we present data showing that the interaction between MEIS1 and PBX1 can be blocked efficiently and might represent a new avenue in anti-MLL-r and anti-leukemic therapy.
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17
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Zhou J, Horton JR, Yu D, Ren R, Blumenthal RM, Zhang X, Cheng X. Repurposing epigenetic inhibitors to target the Clostridioides difficile-specific DNA adenine methyltransferase and sporulation regulator CamA. Epigenetics 2021; 17:970-981. [PMID: 34523387 PMCID: PMC9487755 DOI: 10.1080/15592294.2021.1976910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetically targeted therapeutic development, particularly for SAM-dependent methylations of DNA, mRNA and histones has been proceeding rapidly for cancer treatments over the past few years. However, this approach has barely begun to be exploited for developing new antibiotics, despite an overwhelming global need to counter antimicrobial resistance. Here, we explore whether SAM analogues, some of which are in (pre)clinical studies as inhibitors of human epigenetic enzymes, can also inhibit Clostridioides difficile-specific DNA adenine methyltransferase (CamA), a sporulation regulator present in all C. difficile genomes sequenced to date, but found in almost no other bacteria. We found that SGC0946 (an inhibitor of DOT1L), JNJ-64619178 (an inhibitor of PRMT5) and SGC8158 (an inhibitor of PRMT7) inhibit CamA enzymatic activity in vitro at low micromolar concentrations. Structural investigation of the ternary complexes of CamA-DNA in the presence of SGC0946 or SGC8158 revealed conformational rearrangements of the N-terminal arm, with no apparent disturbance of the active site. This N-terminal arm and its modulation of exchanges between SAM (the methyl donor) and SAH (the reaction product) during catalysis of methyl transfer are, to date, unique to CamA. Our work presents a substantial first step in generating potent and selective inhibitors of CamA that would serve in the near term as chemical probes to investigate the cellular mechanism(s) of CamA in controlling spore formation and colonization, and eventually as therapeutic antivirulence agents useful in treating C. difficile infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jujun Zhou
- Department of Epigenetics and Molecular Carcinogenesis, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - John R Horton
- Department of Epigenetics and Molecular Carcinogenesis, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Dan Yu
- Department of Epigenetics and Molecular Carcinogenesis, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ren Ren
- Department of Epigenetics and Molecular Carcinogenesis, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Robert M Blumenthal
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, and Program in Bioinformatics, The University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Toledo, OH USA
| | - Xing Zhang
- Department of Epigenetics and Molecular Carcinogenesis, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Xiaodong Cheng
- Department of Epigenetics and Molecular Carcinogenesis, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
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18
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Antherieu G, Bidet A, Huet S, Hayette S, Migeon M, Boureau L, Sujobert P, Thomas X, Ghesquières H, Pigneux A, Heiblig M. Allogenic Stem Cell Transplantation Abrogates Negative Impact on Outcome of AML Patients with KMT2A Partial Tandem Duplication. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13092272. [PMID: 34068470 PMCID: PMC8126020 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13092272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2021] [Revised: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Recently, a new subset of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) presenting a direct partial tandem duplication (PTD) of the KMT2A gene was described. The consequences of this alteration in terms of outcome and response to treatment remain unclear. We analyzed retrospectively a cohort of KMT2A-PTD-mutated patients with newly diagnosed AML. With a median follow-up of 3.6 years, the median overall survival was 12.1 months. KMT2A-PTD-mutated patients were highly enriched in mutations affecting epigenetic actors and the RTK/RAS signaling pathway. Integrating KMT2A-PTD in ELN classification abrogates its predictive value on survival suggesting that this mutation may overcome other genomic marker effects. In patients receiving intensive chemotherapy, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) significantly improved the outcome compared to non-transplanted patients. In the multivariate analysis, only HSCT at any time in complete remission (HR = 2.35; p = 0.034) and FLT3-ITD status (HR = 0.29; p = 0.014) were independent variables associated with overall survival, whereas age was not. In conclusion, our results emphasize that KMT2A-PTD should be considered as a potential adverse prognostic factor. However, as KMT2A-PTD-mutated patients are usually considered an intermediate risk group, upfront HSCT should be considered in first CR due to the high relapse rate observed in this subset of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Antherieu
- Department of Hematology, Lyon-Sud Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, 69495 Pierre Bénite, France; (G.A.); (X.T.); (H.G.)
| | - Audrey Bidet
- Hematology Biology, Molecular Hematology, Bordeaux University Hospital, 33600 Pessac, France; (A.B.); (M.M.); (L.B.)
| | - Sarah Huet
- Department of Molecular Hematology, Lyon-Sud Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, 69495 Pierre Bénite, France; (S.H.); (S.H.); (P.S.)
| | - Sandrine Hayette
- Department of Molecular Hematology, Lyon-Sud Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, 69495 Pierre Bénite, France; (S.H.); (S.H.); (P.S.)
| | - Marina Migeon
- Hematology Biology, Molecular Hematology, Bordeaux University Hospital, 33600 Pessac, France; (A.B.); (M.M.); (L.B.)
| | - Lisa Boureau
- Hematology Biology, Molecular Hematology, Bordeaux University Hospital, 33600 Pessac, France; (A.B.); (M.M.); (L.B.)
| | - Pierre Sujobert
- Department of Molecular Hematology, Lyon-Sud Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, 69495 Pierre Bénite, France; (S.H.); (S.H.); (P.S.)
| | - Xavier Thomas
- Department of Hematology, Lyon-Sud Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, 69495 Pierre Bénite, France; (G.A.); (X.T.); (H.G.)
| | - Hervé Ghesquières
- Department of Hematology, Lyon-Sud Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, 69495 Pierre Bénite, France; (G.A.); (X.T.); (H.G.)
| | - Arnaud Pigneux
- Hematology and Cell Therapy, Bordeaux University Hospital, 33600 Pessac, France;
| | - Mael Heiblig
- Department of Hematology, Lyon-Sud Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, 69495 Pierre Bénite, France; (G.A.); (X.T.); (H.G.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-478-862-240; Fax: +33-472-678-880
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19
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Exploiting Clonal Evolution to Improve the Diagnosis and Treatment Efficacy Prediction in Pediatric AML. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13091995. [PMID: 33919131 PMCID: PMC8122278 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13091995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite improvements in therapeutic protocols and in risk stratification, acute myeloid leukemia (AML) remains the leading cause of childhood leukemic mortality. Indeed, the overall survival accounts for ~70% but still ~30% of pediatric patients experience relapse, with poor response to conventional chemotherapy. Thus, there is an urgent need to improve diagnosis and treatment efficacy prediction in the context of this disease. Nowadays, in the era of high throughput techniques, AML has emerged as an extremely heterogeneous disease from a genetic point of view. Different subclones characterized by specific molecular profiles display different degrees of susceptibility to conventional treatments. In this review, we describe in detail this genetic heterogeneity of pediatric AML and how it is linked to relapse in terms of clonal evolution. We highlight some innovative tools to characterize minor subclones that could help to enhance diagnosis and a preclinical model suitable for drugs screening. The final ambition of research is represented by targeted therapy, which could improve the prognosis of pediatric AML patients, as well as to limit the side toxicity of current treatments.
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20
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An Immune Checkpoint-Related Gene Signature for Predicting Survival of Pediatric Acute Myeloid Leukemia. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2021; 2021:5550116. [PMID: 33986802 PMCID: PMC8079183 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5550116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Objective The aim of this research was to create a new genetic signature of immune checkpoint-associated genes as a prognostic method for pediatric acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Methods Transcriptome profiles and clinical follow-up details were obtained in Therapeutically Applicable Research to Generate Effective Treatments (TARGET), a database of pediatric tumors. Secondary data was collected from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) to test the observations. In univariate Cox regression and multivariate Cox regression studies, the expression of immune checkpoint-related genes was studied. A three-mRNA signature was developed for predicting pediatric AML patient survival. Furthermore, the GEO cohort was used to confirm the reliability. A bioinformatics method was utilized to identify the diagnostic and prognostic value. Results A three-gene (STAT1, BATF, EML4) signature was developed to identify patients into two danger categories depending on their OS. A multivariate regression study showed that the immune checkpoint-related signature (STAT1, BATF, EML4) was an independent indicator of pediatric AML. By immune cell subtypes analyses, the signature was correlated with multiple subtypes of immune cells. Conclusion In summary, our three-gene signature can be a useful tool to predict the OS in AML patients.
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