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Talebi E, Ghoraeian P, Shams Z, Rahimi H. Molecular insights into the hedgehog signaling pathway correlated non-coding RNAs in acute lymphoblastic leukemia, a bioinformatics study. Ann Hematol 2024:10.1007/s00277-024-05763-3. [PMID: 39223285 DOI: 10.1007/s00277-024-05763-3] [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: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a common hematologic cancer with unique incidence and prognosis patterns in people of all ages. Recent molecular biology advances have illuminated ALL's complex molecular pathways, notably the Hedgehog (Hh) signaling system and non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). This work aimed to unravel the molecular complexities of the link between Hh signaling and ALL by concentrating on long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and their interactions with significant Hh pathway genes. METHODS To analyze differentially expressed lncRNAs and genes in ALL, microarray data from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) was reanalyzed using a systems biology approach. Hh signaling pathway-related genes were identified and their relationship with differentially expressed long non-coding RNAs (DElncRNAs) was analyzed using Pearson's correlation analysis. A regulatory network was built by identifying miRNAs that target Hh signaling pathway-related mRNAs. RESULTS 193 DEGs and 226 DElncRNAs were found between ALL and normal bone marrow samples. Notably, DEGs associated with the Hh signaling pathway were correlated to 26 DElncRNAs. Later studies showed interesting links between DElncRNAs and biological processes and pathways, including drug resistance, immune system control, and carcinogenic characteristics. DEGs associated with the Hh signaling pathway have miRNAs in common with miRNAs already known to be involved in ALL, including miR-155-5p, and miR-211, highlighting the complexity of the regulatory landscape in this disease. CONCLUSION The complex connections between Hh signaling, lncRNAs, and miRNAs in ALL have been unveiled in this study, indicating that DElncRNAs linked to Hh signaling pathway genes could potentially serve as therapeutic targets and diagnostic biomarkers for ALL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elham Talebi
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Pegah Ghoraeian
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Zinat Shams
- Department of Biological Science, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamzeh Rahimi
- Molecular Medicine Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
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2
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Lee J, Mani A, Shin MJ, Krauss RM. Leveraging altered lipid metabolism in treating B cell malignancies. Prog Lipid Res 2024; 95:101288. [PMID: 38964473 PMCID: PMC11347096 DOI: 10.1016/j.plipres.2024.101288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
B cell malignancies, comprising over 80 heterogeneous blood cancers, pose significant prognostic challenges due to intricate oncogenic signaling. Emerging evidence emphasizes the pivotal role of disrupted lipid metabolism in the development of these malignancies. Variations in lipid species, such as phospholipids, cholesterol, sphingolipids, and fatty acids, are widespread across B cell malignancies, contributing to uncontrolled cell proliferation and survival. Phospholipids play a crucial role in initial signaling cascades leading to B cell activation and malignant transformation through constitutive B cell receptor (BCR) signaling. Dysregulated cholesterol and sphingolipid homeostasis support lipid raft integrity, crucial for propagating oncogenic signals. Sphingolipids impact malignant B cell stemness, proliferation, and survival, while glycosphingolipids in lipid rafts modulate BCR activation. Additionally, cancer cells enhance fatty acid-related processes to meet heightened metabolic demands. In obese individuals, the obesity-derived lipids and adipokines surrounding adipocytes rewire lipid metabolism in malignant B cells, evading cytotoxic therapies. Genetic drivers such as MYC translocations also intrinsically alter lipid metabolism in malignant B cells. In summary, intrinsic and extrinsic factors converge to reprogram lipid metabolism, fostering aggressive phenotypes in B cell malignancies. Therefore, targeting altered lipid metabolism has translational potential for improving risk stratification and clinical management of diverse B cell malignancy subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaewoong Lee
- School of Biosystems and Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Science, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea; Department of Integrated Biomedical and Life Science, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea; Interdisciplinary Program in Precision Public Health, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea; Center of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA.
| | - Arya Mani
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA; Department of Genetics, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Min-Jeong Shin
- School of Biosystems and Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Science, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea; Department of Integrated Biomedical and Life Science, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea; Interdisciplinary Program in Precision Public Health, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Ronald M Krauss
- Department of Pediatrics and Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA.
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Guo H, Shen ZY, Yuan YY, Chen RF, Yang JY, Liu XC, Zhang Q, Pan QY, Ding JJ, He XJ, Zhang QN, Dong XW, Zhou KS. Discovery of a Novel and Potent LCK Inhibitor for Leukemia Treatment via Deep Learning and Molecular Docking. J Chem Inf Model 2024; 64:4835-4849. [PMID: 38847742 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.4c00151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
The lymphocyte-specific protein tyrosine kinase (LCK) plays a crucial role in both T-cell development and activation. Dysregulation of LCK signaling has been demonstrated to drive the oncogenesis of T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL), thus providing a therapeutic target for leukemia treatment. In this study, we introduced a sophisticated virtual screening strategy combined with biological evaluations to discover potent LCK inhibitors. Our initial approach involved utilizing the PLANET algorithm to assess and contrast various scoring methodologies suitable for LCK inhibitor screening. After effectively evaluating PLANET, we progressed to devise a virtual screening workflow that synergistically combines the strengths of PLANET with the capabilities of Schrödinger's suite. This integrative strategy led to the efficient identification of four potential LCK inhibitors. Among them, compound 1232030-35-1 stood out as the most promising candidate with an IC50 of 0.43 nM. Further in vitro bioassays revealed that 1232030-35-1 exhibited robust antiproliferative effects on T-ALL cells, which was attributed to its ability to suppress the phosphorylations of key molecules in the LCK signaling pathway. More importantly, 1232030-35-1 treatment demonstrated profound in vivo antileukemia efficacy in a human T-ALL xenograft model. In addition, complementary molecular dynamics simulations provided deeper insight into the binding kinetics between 1232030-35-1 and LCK, highlighting the formation of a hydrogen bond with Met319. Collectively, our study established a robust and effective screening strategy that integrates AI-driven and conventional methodologies for the identification of LCK inhibitors, positioning 1232030-35-1 as a highly promising and novel drug-like candidate for potential applications in treating T-ALL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Guo
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou 450008, China
| | - Zhe-Yuan Shen
- Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Innovation Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Yong-Yi Yuan
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou 450008, China
- Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Rou-Fen Chen
- Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Innovation Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Jing-Yi Yang
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou 450008, China
| | - Xing-Chen Liu
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou 450008, China
| | - Qing Zhang
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou 450008, China
| | - Qian-Ying Pan
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou 450008, China
| | - Jian-Jun Ding
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Xin-Jun He
- Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Qing-Nan Zhang
- Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Xiao-Wu Dong
- Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Innovation Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Ke-Shu Zhou
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou 450008, China
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4
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Shah K, Nasimian A, Ahmed M, Al Ashiri L, Denison L, Sime W, Bendak K, Kolosenko I, Siino V, Levander F, Palm-Apergi C, Massoumi R, Lock RB, Kazi JU. PLK1 as a cooperating partner for BCL2-mediated antiapoptotic program in leukemia. Blood Cancer J 2023; 13:139. [PMID: 37679323 PMCID: PMC10484999 DOI: 10.1038/s41408-023-00914-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The deregulation of BCL2 family proteins plays a crucial role in leukemia development. Therefore, pharmacological inhibition of this family of proteins is becoming a prevalent treatment method. However, due to the emergence of primary and acquired resistance, efficacy is compromised in clinical or preclinical settings. We developed a drug sensitivity prediction model utilizing a deep tabular learning algorithm for the assessment of venetoclax sensitivity in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) patient samples. Through analysis of predicted venetoclax-sensitive and resistant samples, PLK1 was identified as a cooperating partner for the BCL2-mediated antiapoptotic program. This finding was substantiated by additional data obtained through phosphoproteomics and high-throughput kinase screening. Concurrent treatment using venetoclax with PLK1-specific inhibitors and PLK1 knockdown demonstrated a greater therapeutic effect on T-ALL cell lines, patient-derived xenografts, and engrafted mice compared with using each treatment separately. Mechanistically, the attenuation of PLK1 enhanced BCL2 inhibitor sensitivity through upregulation of BCL2L13 and PMAIP1 expression. Collectively, these findings underscore the dependency of T-ALL on PLK1 and postulate a plausible regulatory mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kinjal Shah
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Lund Stem Cell Center, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Ahmad Nasimian
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Lund Stem Cell Center, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Mehreen Ahmed
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Lund Stem Cell Center, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Lina Al Ashiri
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Lund Stem Cell Center, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Linn Denison
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Lund Stem Cell Center, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Wondossen Sime
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Katerina Bendak
- Children's Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Medicine & Health, Centre for Childhood Cancer Research, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Iryna Kolosenko
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Biomolecular & Cellular Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Valentina Siino
- Department of Immunotechnology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Fredrik Levander
- Department of Immunotechnology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- National Bioinformatics Infrastructure Sweden (NBIS), Science for Life Laboratory, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Caroline Palm-Apergi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Biomolecular & Cellular Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ramin Massoumi
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Richard B Lock
- Children's Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Medicine & Health, Centre for Childhood Cancer Research, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Julhash U Kazi
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden.
- Lund Stem Cell Center, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden.
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Shah K, Al Ashiri L, Nasimian A, Ahmed M, Kazi JU. Venetoclax-Resistant T-ALL Cells Display Distinct Cancer Stem Cell Signatures and Enrichment of Cytokine Signaling. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24055004. [PMID: 36902436 PMCID: PMC10003524 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24055004] [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: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Therapy resistance remains one of the major challenges for cancer treatment that largely limits treatment benefits and patient survival. The underlying mechanisms that lead to therapy resistance are highly complicated because of the specificity to the cancer subtype and therapy. The expression of the anti-apoptotic protein BCL2 has been shown to be deregulated in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL), where different T-ALL cells display a differential response to the BCL2-specific inhibitor venetoclax. In this study, we observed that the expression of anti-apoptotic BCL2 family genes, such as BCL2, BCL2L1, and MCL1, is highly varied in T-ALL patients, and inhibitors targeting proteins coded by these genes display differential responses in T-ALL cell lines. Three T-ALL cell lines (ALL-SIL, MOLT-16, and LOUCY) were highly sensitive to BCL2 inhibition within a panel of cell lines tested. These cell lines displayed differential BCL2 and BCL2L1 expression. Prolonged exposure to venetoclax led to the development of resistance to it in all three sensitive cell lines. To understand how cells developed venetoclax resistance, we monitored the expression of BCL2, BCL2L1, and MCL1 over the treatment period and compared gene expression between resistant cells and parental sensitive cells. We observed a different trend of regulation in terms of BCL2 family gene expression and global gene expression profile including genes reported to be expressed in cancer stem cells. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) showed enrichment of cytokine signaling in all three cell lines which was supported by the phospho-kinase array where STAT5 phosphorylation was found to be elevated in resistant cells. Collectively, our data suggest that venetoclax resistance can be mediated through the enrichment of distinct gene signatures and cytokine signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kinjal Shah
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, 22381 Lund, Sweden
- Lund Stem Cell Center, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Lina Al Ashiri
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, 22381 Lund, Sweden
- Lund Stem Cell Center, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Ahmad Nasimian
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, 22381 Lund, Sweden
- Lund Stem Cell Center, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Mehreen Ahmed
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, 22381 Lund, Sweden
- Lund Stem Cell Center, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Julhash U. Kazi
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, 22381 Lund, Sweden
- Lund Stem Cell Center, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
- Correspondence:
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Understanding the Roles of the Hedgehog Signaling Pathway during T-Cell Lymphopoiesis and in T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (T-ALL). Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032962. [PMID: 36769284 PMCID: PMC9917970 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032962] [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: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The Hedgehog (HH) signaling network is one of the main regulators of invertebrate and vertebrate embryonic development. Along with other networks, such as NOTCH and WNT, HH signaling specifies both the early patterning and the polarity events as well as the subsequent organ formation via the temporal and spatial regulation of cell proliferation and differentiation. However, aberrant activation of HH signaling has been identified in a broad range of malignant disorders, where it positively influences proliferation, survival, and therapeutic resistance of neoplastic cells. Inhibitors targeting the HH pathway have been tested in preclinical cancer models. The HH pathway is also overactive in other blood malignancies, including T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL). This review is intended to summarize our knowledge of the biological roles and pathophysiology of the HH pathway during normal T-cell lymphopoiesis and in T-ALL. In addition, we will discuss potential therapeutic strategies that might expand the clinical usefulness of drugs targeting the HH pathway in T-ALL.
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Expression analysis of circulating miR-22, miR-122, miR-217 and miR-367 as promising biomarkers of acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Mol Biol Rep 2023; 50:255-265. [PMID: 36327023 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-022-08016-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The role of serum-based biomarkers such as microRNAs in cancer diagnosis has been extensively established. This study aimed to determine the expression levels of bioinformatically selected miRNAs and whether they can be used as biomarkers or a new therapeutic target in patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). MATERIALS AND METHODS The expression levels of serum miR-22, miR-122, miR-217, and miR-367 in 21 ALL patients and 21 healthy controls were measured using quantitative real-time PCR. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and the associated area under the curve (AUC) was used to assess candidate miRNAs' diagnostic value as a biomarker. RESULTS The results showed that miR-217 was markedly decreased in patients with ALL compared to controls. Moreover, miR-22, miR-122, and miR-367 were found to be upregulated. Furthermore, ROC analysis showed that serum miR-217 and miR-367 could differentiate ALL patients from healthy individuals, while miR-22 has approximate discriminatory power that requires further investigation. CONCLUSION These results provide promising preliminary evidence that circulating miR-217 and miR-367 could be considered potent diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic goals in this disease.
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Graiqevci-Uka V, Behluli E, Spahiu L, Liehr T, Temaj G. Targeted Treatment and Immunotherapy in High-risk and Relapsed/ Refractory Pediatric Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Curr Pediatr Rev 2023; 19:150-156. [PMID: 36056858 PMCID: PMC10009894 DOI: 10.2174/1573396318666220901165247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 06/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia is the most frequent pediatric malignancy in children, comprising 30% of all pediatric malignancies; adult ALL comprises 5% of all ALL cases, which have a 186.6 per 1 million incidence. In pediatric ALL (pALL), on which this review focuses, approximately 1 in 285 children are diagnosed with cancer before the age of 20, and approximately 1 in 530 young adults between the ages of 20 and 39 years old is a childhood cancer survivor. The survival probability in pALL is now very high, approximately 80-90%. Thus, the most important is to improve supportive care and treatment based on relapse risk, optimally being based on the genetic feature of malignant cells. Improvements made by now are mainly the classifying of subgroups based on genetic characteristics such as aneuploidy or translocation and aligning them with treatment response. Relevant genetic changes in ALL pathogenesis are transcription regulators of lymphoid development (PAX5, IKZF1, EBF1, and LEF1) and/or coactivators (TBL1XR1 and ERG), lymphoid signaling (BTLA, and CD200 TOX), and tumor suppressor genes (CDKN2A, CDKN2B, RB1, and TP53). This review aims to summarize treatment strategies inhibiting tyrosine kinases, influencing different signaling pathways, BCL inhibitors, and anti-CD therapy (anti-cluster differentiation therapy) in pALL. CAR T-cell therapy (chimeric antigen receptors T-cell therapy) is under research and requires further development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emir Behluli
- Department of Pediatrics, University Clinical Center, Prishtina, Kosovo
| | - Lidvana Spahiu
- Department of Pediatrics, University Clinical Center, Prishtina, Kosovo
| | - Thomas Liehr
- Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Institute of Human Genetics, Jena, Germany
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Vasileva AN, Aleshina OA, Biderman BV, Sudarikov AB. Molecular genetic abnormalities in patients with T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia: a literature review. ONCOHEMATOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.17650/1818-8346-2022-17-4-166-176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma (T-ALL) is an aggressive hematological disease. Modern polychemotherapy protocols allow achieving a 5-year overall survival of 60–90 % in different age groups, however, relapses and refractory forms of T-ALL remain incurable. Over the past decades, the pathogenesis of this variant of leukemia has been studied in many trials, and it has been found that various signaling pathways are involved in the multi-step process of leukemogenesis. This opens the way for targeted therapy.In this review, we provide an update on the pathogenesis of T-ALL, opportunities for introducing targeted therapies, and issues that remain to be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. N. Vasileva
- National Research Center for Hematology, Ministry of Health of Russia
| | - O. A. Aleshina
- National Research Center for Hematology, Ministry of Health of Russia
| | - B. V. Biderman
- National Research Center for Hematology, Ministry of Health of Russia
| | - A. B. Sudarikov
- National Research Center for Hematology, Ministry of Health of Russia
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10
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Perbellini O, Cavallini C, Chignola R, Galasso M, Scupoli MT. Phospho-Specific Flow Cytometry Reveals Signaling Heterogeneity in T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Cell Lines. Cells 2022; 11:cells11132072. [PMID: 35805156 PMCID: PMC9266179 DOI: 10.3390/cells11132072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Several signaling pathways are aberrantly activated in T-ALL due to genetic alterations of their components and in response to external microenvironmental cues. To functionally characterize elements of the signaling network in T-ALL, here we analyzed ten signaling proteins that are frequently altered in T-ALL -namely Akt, Erk1/2, JNK, Lck, NF-κB p65, p38, STAT3, STAT5, ZAP70, Rb- in Jurkat, CEM and MOLT4 cell lines, using phospho-specific flow cytometry. Phosphorylation statuses of signaling proteins were measured in the basal condition or under modulation with H2O2, PMA, CXCL12 or IL7. Signaling profiles are characterized by a high variability across the analyzed T-ALL cell lines. Hierarchical clustering analysis documents that higher intrinsic phosphorylation of Erk1/2, Lck, ZAP70, and Akt, together with ZAP70 phosphorylation induced by H2O2, identifies Jurkat cells. In contrast, CEM are characterized by higher intrinsic phosphorylation of JNK and Rb and higher responsiveness of Akt to external stimuli. MOLT4 cells are characterized by higher basal STAT3 phosphorylation. These data document that phospho-specific flow cytometry reveals a high variability in intrinsic as well as modulated signaling networks across different T-ALL cell lines. Characterizing signaling network profiles across individual leukemia could provide the basis to identify molecular targets for personalized T-ALL therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar Perbellini
- Department of Cell Therapy and Hematology, San Bortolo Hospital, Viale Ferdinando Rodolfi, 37, 36100 Vicenza, Italy;
| | - Chiara Cavallini
- Research Center LURM, Interdepartmental Laboratory of Medical Research, University of Verona, Piazzale L.A. Scuro, 10, 37134 Verona, Italy;
| | - Roberto Chignola
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 15, 37134 Verona, Italy;
| | - Marilisa Galasso
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Piazzale L.A. Scuro, 10, 37134 Verona, Italy;
| | - Maria T. Scupoli
- Research Center LURM, Interdepartmental Laboratory of Medical Research, University of Verona, Piazzale L.A. Scuro, 10, 37134 Verona, Italy;
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Piazzale L.A. Scuro, 10, 37134 Verona, Italy;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-045-8128-425
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11
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Sbirkov Y, Vergov B, Mehterov N, Sarafian V. miRNAs in Lymphocytic Leukaemias-The miRror of Drug Resistance. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23094657. [PMID: 35563051 PMCID: PMC9103677 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23094657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Refractory disease and relapse remain the main causes of cancer therapy failure. Refined risk stratification, treatment regimens and improved early diagnosis and detection of minimal residual disease have increased cure rates in malignancies like childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) to 90%. Nevertheless, overall survival in the context of drug resistance remains poor. The regulatory role of micro RNAs (miRNAs) in cell differentiation, homeostasis and tumorigenesis has been under extensive investigation in different cancers. There is accumulating data demonstrating the significance of miRNAs for therapy outcomes in lymphoid malignancies and some direct demonstrations of the interplay between these small molecules and drug response. Here, we summarise miRNAs' impact on chemotherapy resistance in adult and paediatric ALL and chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL). The main focus of this review is on the modulation of particular signaling pathways like PI3K-AKT, transcription factors such as NF-κB, and apoptotic mediators, all of which are bona fide and pivotal elements orchestrating the survival of malignant lymphocytic cells. Finally, we discuss the attractive strategy of using mimics, antimiRs and other molecular approaches pointing at miRNAs as promising therapeutic targets. Such novel strategies to circumvent ALL and CLL resistance networks may potentially improve patients' responses and survival rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yordan Sbirkov
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical University of Plovdiv, 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; (B.V.); (N.M.)
- Division of Molecular and Regenerative Medicine, Research Institute at Medical University of Plovdiv, 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
- Correspondence: (Y.S.); (V.S.)
| | - Bozhidar Vergov
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical University of Plovdiv, 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; (B.V.); (N.M.)
| | - Nikolay Mehterov
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical University of Plovdiv, 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; (B.V.); (N.M.)
- Division of Molecular and Regenerative Medicine, Research Institute at Medical University of Plovdiv, 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Victoria Sarafian
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical University of Plovdiv, 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; (B.V.); (N.M.)
- Division of Molecular and Regenerative Medicine, Research Institute at Medical University of Plovdiv, 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
- Correspondence: (Y.S.); (V.S.)
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Bagheri M, Sarabi PZ, Mondanizadeh M. The role of miRNAs as a big master regulator of signaling pathways involved in lymphoblastic leukemia. J Cell Physiol 2022; 237:2128-2139. [PMID: 35315068 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) belong to small noncoding RNAs, which have long attracted researchers' attention because of their potency in acting either as oncogenes or tumor-suppressors in cancers. acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) are two known types of leukemia with high mortality rates in adults and children. On a molecular basis, various signaling pathways are active in both types, making researchers consider the potential role of miRNAs in activating or suppressing these pathways to further hinder cancer development. In this review, we summarized the potential miRNAs, especially circulating ones, involved in essential signaling pathways in the ALL and CLL patients which serve as biomarkers and valuable targets in the treatment fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malihe Bagheri
- Department of Biotechnology and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Parisa Zia Sarabi
- Department of Biotechnology and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Mahdieh Mondanizadeh
- Department of Biotechnology and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
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13
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Ferry JA. Update from the 5th Edition of the World Health Organization Classification of Head and Neck Tumors: Hematolymphoid Proliferations and Neoplasia. Head Neck Pathol 2022; 16:101-109. [PMID: 35312979 PMCID: PMC9018906 DOI: 10.1007/s12105-022-01411-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
In the 5th edition of the World Health Organization (WHO) Classification of Head and Neck Tumours, the discussion of hematolymphoid proliferations is substantially reorganized and expanded in comparison to the prior edition. The 5th edition includes, in addition to hematolymphoid neoplasms, reactive lymphoid proliferations. Much more information on hematolymphoid proliferations that commonly affect cervical lymph nodes, in addition to those affecting extranodal sites in the head and neck, is included. For the first time, there are dedicated sections on multiple entities, including recently described lymphoproliferative disorders such as EBV+ mucocutaneous ulcer and pediatric-type follicular lymphoma, and several types of histiocytic neoplasms. Tremendous advances have been made in understanding the genetic features that underlie the pathogenesis of hematolymphoid neoplasms, and these have been incorporated into the WHO Classification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith A Ferry
- Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, 02114, MA, USA.
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14
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Yang J, Yang Y. Long noncoding RNA endogenous bornavirus-like nucleoprotein acts as an oncogene by regulating microRNA-655-3p expression in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Bioengineered 2022; 13:6409-6419. [PMID: 35220878 PMCID: PMC8974199 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2022.2044249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) is the most common malignant tumor in children with T-cell ALL (T-ALL), accounting for approximately 15% of all cases. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are involved in the pathogenesis and progression of T-ALL. The present study aimed to explore the role and mechanism of action of lncRNA EBLN3P in T-ALL. We used quantitative reverse transcription-PCR (qRT-PCR) to determine the expression of lncRNA endogenous bornavirus-like nucleoprotein (EBLN3P), microRNA (miR)-655-3p, and the transcription level of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), and Western blot assay to quantify the protein expression level of cleaved-caspase3, caspase3, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), and MMP-9. The potential binding sites between lncRNA EBLN3P and miR-655-3p were predicted using StarBase, and the interaction was further verified by dual-luciferase reporter assay and RNA pull-down assay. The proliferation ability of Jurkat cells was detected using MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay, and their invasion and migration ability using transwell assay. Cell apoptosis was determined using flow cytometry (FCM) assay. The expression of lncRNA EBLN3P was upregulated while that of miR-655-3p was downregulated in human T-ALL cell lines and lncRNA EBLN3P negatively regulated miR-655-3p. LncRNA EBLN3P knockdown significantly inhibited proliferation, invasion, and migration of Jurkat cells and induced their apoptosis. Downregulating miR-655-3p reversed the effects of lncRNA EBLN3P knockdown on Jurkat cells. In conclusion, we confirmed for the first time that lncRNA EBLN3P is dysregulated in T-ALL cell lines, and lncRNA EBLN3P knockdown inhibited the malignant biological behaviors of T-ALL cells by up-regulating miR-655-3p.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinhua Yang
- Department of Hematology, Wuhan Fourth Hospital, Puai Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yingying Yang
- Department of Hematology, Wuhan Fourth Hospital, Puai Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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15
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Mannino F, Pallio G, Corsaro R, Minutoli L, Altavilla D, Vermiglio G, Allegra A, Eid AH, Bitto A, Squadrito F, Irrera N. Beta-Caryophyllene Exhibits Anti-Proliferative Effects through Apoptosis Induction and Cell Cycle Modulation in Multiple Myeloma Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:5741. [PMID: 34830893 PMCID: PMC8616110 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13225741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoid receptors, which are widely distributed in the body, have been considered as possible pharmacological targets for the management of several tumors. Cannabinoid type 2 receptors (CB2Rs) belong to the G protein-coupled receptor family and are mainly expressed in hematopoietic and immune cells, such as B-cells, T-cells, and macrophages; thus, CB2R activation might be useful for treating cancers affecting plasma cells, such as multiple myeloma (MM). Previous studies have shown that CB2R stimulation may have anti-proliferative effects; therefore, the purpose of the present study was to explore the antitumor effect of beta-caryophyllene (BCP), a CB2R agonist, in an in vitro model of MM. Dexamethasone-resistant (MM.1R) and sensitive (MM.1S) human multiple myeloma cell lines were used in this study. Cells were treated with different concentrations of BCP for 24 h, and a group of cells was pre-incubated with AM630, a specific CB2R antagonist. BCP treatment reduced cell proliferation through CB2R stimulation; notably, BCP considerably increased the pro-apoptotic protein Bax and decreased the anti-apoptotic molecule Bcl-2. Furthermore, an increase in caspase 3 protein levels was detected following BCP incubation, thus demonstrating its anti-proliferative effect through apoptosis activation. In addition, BCP regulated AKT, Wnt1, and beta-catenin expression, showing that CB2R stimulation may decrease cancer cell proliferation by modulating Wnt/β-catenin signaling. These effects were counteracted by AM630 co-incubation, thus confirming that BCP's mechanism of action is mainly related to CB2R modulation. A decrease in β-catenin regulated the impaired cell cycle and especially promoted cyclin D1 and CDK 4/6 reduction. Taken together, these data revealed that BCP might have significant and effective anti-cancer and anti-proliferative effects in MM cells by activating apoptosis, modulating different molecular pathways, and downregulating the cell cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Mannino
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Via C. Valeria Gazzi, 98125 Messina, Italy; (F.M.); (G.P.); (R.C.); (L.M.); (N.I.)
| | - Giovanni Pallio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Via C. Valeria Gazzi, 98125 Messina, Italy; (F.M.); (G.P.); (R.C.); (L.M.); (N.I.)
| | - Roberta Corsaro
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Via C. Valeria Gazzi, 98125 Messina, Italy; (F.M.); (G.P.); (R.C.); (L.M.); (N.I.)
| | - Letteria Minutoli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Via C. Valeria Gazzi, 98125 Messina, Italy; (F.M.); (G.P.); (R.C.); (L.M.); (N.I.)
| | - Domenica Altavilla
- Department of Biomedical, Dental, Morphological and Functional Imaging Sciences, University of Messina, Via C. Valeria Gazzi, 98125 Messina, Italy; (D.A.); (G.V.)
| | - Giovanna Vermiglio
- Department of Biomedical, Dental, Morphological and Functional Imaging Sciences, University of Messina, Via C. Valeria Gazzi, 98125 Messina, Italy; (D.A.); (G.V.)
| | - Alessandro Allegra
- Department of Human Pathology in Adulthood and Childhood, University of Messina, Via C. Valeria Gazzi, 98125 Messina, Italy;
| | - Ali H. Eid
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, 2713 Doha, Qatar;
- Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Research Unit, QU Health, Qatar University, 2713 Doha, Qatar
| | - Alessandra Bitto
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Via C. Valeria Gazzi, 98125 Messina, Italy; (F.M.); (G.P.); (R.C.); (L.M.); (N.I.)
| | - Francesco Squadrito
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Via C. Valeria Gazzi, 98125 Messina, Italy; (F.M.); (G.P.); (R.C.); (L.M.); (N.I.)
| | - Natasha Irrera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Via C. Valeria Gazzi, 98125 Messina, Italy; (F.M.); (G.P.); (R.C.); (L.M.); (N.I.)
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16
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Novel Ferrocene Derivatives Induce Apoptosis through Mitochondria-Dependent and Cell Cycle Arrest via PI3K/Akt/mTOR Signaling Pathway in T Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13184677. [PMID: 34572904 PMCID: PMC8467123 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13184677] [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: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary T cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is a malignant hematologic disease that urgently requires efficient therapeutic agents. The aim of this study is to explore the anti-T-ALL activity of novel ferrocene derivatives. It was found that ferrocene derivatives F1–F7 synthesized by our group inhibited the proliferation of several cancer cell lines in vitro. Among them, F1 and F3 displayed potent cytotoxicity against T-ALL cell lines, especially Jurkat cells, with low cytotoxicity for normal cells. Mechanistically, F1 and F3 could induce apoptosis through mitochondria-dependent pathway mediated by ROS, and cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase via the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway in Jurkat cells. These results suggested that F1 and F3 could be potential candidates for future T-ALL therapy. Abstract T cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is one of the most common causes of death in pediatric malignancies. However, the clinical chemotherapy for T-ALL has been limited by numerous side effects, emphasizing that novel anti-T-ALL drugs are urgently needed. Herein, a series of 2-acyl-1-dimethylaminomethyl-ferrocenes for cancer therapy have been evaluated. Among them, F1 and F3 exhibited potent cytotoxicity against T-ALL cell lines, especially Jurkat cells, with low cytotoxicity for normal cells. Further mechanistic studies revealed that F1 and F3 could induce apoptosis in Jurkat cells by destructing mitochondrial membrane, enhancing reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, decreasing the Bcl-2/Bax ratio, releasing Cytochrome c, and increasing the expression of Cleaved Caspase-9/-3 and Cleaved PARP. Additionally, F1 and F3 could suppress cell proliferation and arrest the cell cycle at G0/G1 phase through the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway by down-regulating the expression of CDK6, Cyclin D1, p-Akt, p-GSK-3β, p-mTOR, p-p70 S6K, and up-regulating the expression of P21 and P27, which would also be a possible mechanism. Consequently, ferrocene derivatives F1 and F3 could induce apoptosis through a mitochondria-dependent pathway mediated by ROS, and cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase via the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway in Jurkat cells. The present study provided fundamental insights into the clinical application of F1 and F3 for the treatment of T-ALL.
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Abstract
Lymphoproliferative disorders comprise 50% to 60% of all mediastinal malignancies in both children and adults. Primary mediastinal involvement is rare (∼5%), whereas secondary mediastinal involvement by systemic disease is more common (10% to 25%). Primary mediastinal disease is defined as involvement by a lymphoproliferative disorder of mediastinal lymph nodes, the thymus, and/or extranodal mediastinal organs without evidence of systemic disease at presentation. In this review, the clinical, radiologic, histopathologic, immunohistochemical, and genetic features of some of the most characteristic mediastinal lymphoproliferative disorders are presented. The entities discussed here include: classic Hodgkin lymphoma with emphasis on nodular sclerosis and mixed cellularity types, and non-Hodgkin lymphomas, including primary mediastinal (thymic) large B-cell lymphoma, mediastinal gray zone lymphoma, mediastinal diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, thymic marginal zone lymphoma, mediastinal plasmacytoma, T-lymphoblastic lymphoma, and anaplastic large cell lymphoma. Although not a malignant process, hyaline vascular Castleman disease is also discussed here as this disorder commonly involves the mediastinum. Despite multiple advances in hematopathology in recent decades, the day-to-day diagnosis of these lesions still requires a morphologic approach and a proper selection of immunohistochemical markers. For this reason, it is crucial for general pathologists to be familiar with these entities and their particular clinicoradiologic presentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Pina-Oviedo
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Services, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR
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18
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Seed oil of Brucea javanica induces apoptosis through the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway in acute lymphocytic leukemia Jurkat cells. Chin J Nat Med 2021; 19:608-620. [PMID: 34419260 DOI: 10.1016/s1875-5364(21)60060-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Brucea javanica oil emulsion (BJOE) has been used to treat tumor in China for more than 40 years. However, its components and effectiveness in the treatment of acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) and its mechanism of anti-cancer activity remain unknown. In the current study, high-performance liquid chromatography-evaporative light scattering detector (HPLC-ELSD) was used to analyze the components of BJOE. Then, the anti-leukemia effects of BJOE were examined both in vitro and in vivo using ALL Jurkat cells and the p388 mouse leukemia transplant model, respectively. The primary ALL leukemia cells were also used to confirm the anti-leukemia effects of BJOE. The apoptotic-related results indicated that BJOE induced apoptosis in Jurkat cells and were suggestive of intrinsic apoptotic induction. Moreover, BJOE inhibited Akt (protein kinase B) activation and upregulated its downstream targets p53 and FoxO1 (forkhead box gene, group O-1) to initiate apoptosis. The activation of GSK3β was also involved. Our findings demonstrate that BJOE has anti-leukemia effects on ALL cells and can induce apoptosis in Jurkat cells through the phosphoinositide3-kinase (PI3K) /Akt signaling pathway.
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Di Martino L, Tosello V, Peroni E, Piovan E. Insights on Metabolic Reprogramming and Its Therapeutic Potential in Acute Leukemia. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22168738. [PMID: 34445444 PMCID: PMC8395761 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute leukemias, classified as acute myeloid leukemia and acute lymphoblastic leukemia, represent the most prevalent hematologic tumors in adolescent and young adults. In recent years, new challenges have emerged in order to improve the clinical effectiveness of therapies already in use and reduce their side effects. In particular, in this scenario, metabolic reprogramming plays a key role in tumorigenesis and prognosis, and it contributes to the treatment outcome of acute leukemia. This review summarizes the latest findings regarding the most relevant metabolic pathways contributing to the continuous growth, redox homeostasis, and drug resistance of leukemia cells. We describe the main metabolic deregulations in acute leukemia and evidence vulnerabilities that could be exploited for targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludovica Di Martino
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chirurgiche, Oncologiche e Gastroenterologiche, Universita’ di Padova, 35122 Padova, Italy;
| | - Valeria Tosello
- UOC Immunologia e Diagnostica Molecolare Oncologica, Istituto Oncologico Veneto IOV—IRCCS, 35128 Padova, Italy; (V.T.); (E.P.)
| | - Edoardo Peroni
- UOC Immunologia e Diagnostica Molecolare Oncologica, Istituto Oncologico Veneto IOV—IRCCS, 35128 Padova, Italy; (V.T.); (E.P.)
| | - Erich Piovan
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chirurgiche, Oncologiche e Gastroenterologiche, Universita’ di Padova, 35122 Padova, Italy;
- UOC Immunologia e Diagnostica Molecolare Oncologica, Istituto Oncologico Veneto IOV—IRCCS, 35128 Padova, Italy; (V.T.); (E.P.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-049-8215895
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20
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[The characteristics and prognostic impact of NOTCH1/FBXW7 mutation and CDKN2A/B deletion in adult T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia patients]. ZHONGHUA XUE YE XUE ZA ZHI = ZHONGHUA XUEYEXUE ZAZHI 2021; 42:432-435. [PMID: 34218589 PMCID: PMC8293003 DOI: 10.3760/cma.j.issn.0253-2727.2021.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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21
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Ansuinelli M, Cesini L, Chiaretti S, Foà R. Emerging tyrosine kinase inhibitors for the treatment of adult acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Expert Opin Emerg Drugs 2021; 26:281-294. [PMID: 34259120 DOI: 10.1080/14728214.2021.1956462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: The broadening of targeted and immunotherapeutic strategies markedly impacted on the management of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). The advent of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) changed the history of Philadelphia-chromosome positive (Ph+) ALL. Nowadays, almost all Ph+ ALL patients treated with TKIs achieve a complete hematologic response, and most become minimal residual disease negative. In Ph- ALL, genomic profiling studies have identified a subtype associated with a high relapse risk and a transcriptional profile similar to that of Ph+ ALL, the so-called Ph-like ALL. Given the high prevalence of kinase-activating lesions in this subset, there is compelling evidence from experimental models and clinical observations favoring TKI administration.Areas covered: We discuss the main findings exploring the efficacy of TKIs in ALL.Expert opinion: The use of more potent TKIs will further enhance the inhibitory activity on leukemia cells and increase the possibility of eradicating the disease at a molecular level. In the future, 'combined' approaches of different inhibitors may be considered to prevent/avoid resistance and/or mutations. A rapid identification of Ph-like ALL patients is needed to propose early TKI-based intervention. Several questions remain open, including the initial TKI choice in Ph+ ALL and whether Ph-like ALL patients might benefit from immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Ansuinelli
- Hematology, Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Cesini
- Hematology, Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Sabina Chiaretti
- Hematology, Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Robin Foà
- Hematology, Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
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Responsiveness to Hedgehog Pathway Inhibitors in T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Cells Is Highly Dependent on 5'AMP-Activated Kinase Inactivation. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22126384. [PMID: 34203724 PMCID: PMC8232330 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22126384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous studies have shown that hedgehog inhibitors (iHHs) only partially block the growth of tumor cells, especially in vivo. Leukemia often expands in a nutrient-depleted environment (bone marrow and thymus). In order to identify putative signaling pathways implicated in the adaptive response to metabolically adverse conditions, we executed quantitative phospho-proteomics in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) cells subjected to nutrient-depleted conditions (serum starvation). We found important modulations of peptides phosphorylated by critical signaling pathways including casein kinase, mammalian target of rapamycin, and 5′AMP-activated kinase (AMPK). Surprisingly, in T-ALL cells, AMPK signaling was the most consistently downregulated pathway under serum-depleted conditions, and this coincided with increased GLI1 expression and sensitivity to iHHs, especially the GLI1/2 inhibitor GANT-61. Increased sensitivity to GANT-61 was also found following genetic inactivation of the catalytic subunit of AMPK (AMPKα1) or pharmacological inhibition of AMPK by Compound C. Additionally, patient-derived xenografts showing high GLI1 expression lacked activated AMPK, suggesting an important role for this signaling pathway in regulating GLI1 protein levels. Further, joint targeting of HH and AMPK signaling pathways in T-ALL cells by GANT-61 and Compound C significantly increased the therapeutic response. Our results suggest that metabolic adaptation that occurs under nutrient starvation in T-ALL cells increases responsiveness to HH pathway inhibitors through an AMPK-dependent mechanism and that joint therapeutic targeting of AMPK signaling and HH signaling could represent a valid therapeutic strategy in rapidly expanding tumors where nutrient availability becomes limiting.
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Redox Control in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: From Physiology to Pathology and Therapeutic Opportunities. Cells 2021; 10:cells10051218. [PMID: 34067520 PMCID: PMC8155968 DOI: 10.3390/cells10051218] [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] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Revised: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a hematological malignancy originating from B- or T-lymphoid progenitor cells. Recent studies have shown that redox dysregulation caused by overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) has an important role in the development and progression of leukemia. The application of pro-oxidant therapy, which targets redox dysregulation, has achieved satisfactory results in alleviating the conditions of and improving the survival rate for patients with ALL. However, drug resistance and side effects are two major challenges that must be addressed in pro-oxidant therapy. Oxidative stress can activate a variety of antioxidant mechanisms to help leukemia cells escape the damage caused by pro-oxidant drugs and develop drug resistance. Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) are extremely sensitive to oxidative stress due to their low levels of differentiation, and the use of pro-oxidant drugs inevitably causes damage to HSCs and may even cause severe bone marrow suppression. In this article, we reviewed research progress regarding the generation and regulation of ROS in normal HSCs and ALL cells as well as the impact of ROS on the biological behavior and fate of cells. An in-depth understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of redox homeostasis in normal and malignant HSCs is conducive to the formulation of rational targeted treatment plans to effectively reduce oxidative damage to normal HSCs while eradicating ALL cells.
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Hypoxia favors chemoresistance in T-ALL through an HIF1α-mediated mTORC1 inhibition loop. Blood Adv 2021; 5:513-526. [PMID: 33496749 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2020002832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Resistance to chemotherapy, a major therapeutic challenge in the treatment of T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL), can be driven by interactions between leukemic cells and the microenvironment that promote survival of leukemic cells. The bone marrow, an important leukemia niche, has low oxygen partial pressures that highly participate in the regulation of normal hematopoiesis. Here we show that hypoxia inhibits T-ALL cell growth by slowing down cell cycle progression, decreasing mitochondria activity, and increasing glycolysis, making them less sensitive to antileukemic drugs and preserving their ability to initiate leukemia after treatment. Activation of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) was diminished in hypoxic leukemic cells, and treatment of T-ALL with the mTOR inhibitor rapamycin in normoxia mimicked the hypoxia effects, namely decreased cell growth and increased quiescence and drug resistance. Knocking down (KD) hypoxia-induced factor 1α (HIF-1α), a key regulator of the cellular response to hypoxia, antagonized the effects observed in hypoxic T-ALL and restored chemosensitivity. HIF-1α KD also restored mTOR activation in low O2 concentrations, and inhibiting mTOR in HIF1α KD T-ALL protected leukemic cells from chemotherapy. Thus, hypoxic niches play a protective role of T-ALL during treatments. Inhibition of HIF-1α and activation of the mTORC1 pathway may help suppress the drug resistance of T-ALL in hypoxic niches.
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25
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Tosi M, Spinelli O, Leoncin M, Cavagna R, Pavoni C, Lussana F, Intermesoli T, Frison L, Perali G, Carobolante F, Viero P, Skert C, Rambaldi A, Bassan R. MRD-Based Therapeutic Decisions in Genetically Defined Subsets of Adolescents and Young Adult Philadelphia-Negative ALL. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13092108. [PMID: 33925541 PMCID: PMC8123823 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13092108] [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: 04/02/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), once a complete remission is achieved following induction chemotherapy, the study of submicroscopic minimal residual disease (MRD) represents a highly sensitive tool to assess the efficacy of early chemotherapy courses and predict outcome. Because of the significant therapeutic progress occurred in adolescent and young adult (AYA) ALL, the importance of MRD in this peculiar age setting has grown considerably, to refine individual prognostic scores within different genetic subsets and support specific risk and MRD-oriented programs. The evidence coming from the most recent MRD-based studies and the new therapeutic directions for AYA ALL are critically reviewed according to ALL subset and risk category. Abstract In many clinical studies published over the past 20 years, adolescents and young adults (AYA) with Philadelphia chromosome negative acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph− ALL) were considered as a rather homogeneous clinico-prognostic group of patients suitable to receive intensive pediatric-like regimens with an improved outcome compared with the use of traditional adult ALL protocols. The AYA group was defined in most studies by an age range of 18–40 years, with some exceptions (up to 45 years). The experience collected in pediatric ALL with the study of post-induction minimal residual disease (MRD) was rapidly duplicated in AYA ALL, making MRD a widely accepted key factor for risk stratification and risk-oriented therapy with or without allogeneic stem cell transplantation and experimental new drugs for patients with MRD detectable after highly intensive chemotherapy. This combined strategy has resulted in long-term survival rates of AYA patients of 60–80%. The present review examines the evidence for MRD-guided therapies in AYA’s Ph− ALL, provides a critical appraisal of current treatment pitfalls and illustrates the ways of achieving further therapeutic improvement according to the massive knowledge recently generated in the field of ALL biology and MRD/risk/subset-specific therapy
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Tosi
- Hematology Unit, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST), Ospedale Papa Giovanni XXIII, 24127 Bergamo, Italy; (M.T.); (O.S.); (R.C.); (C.P.); (F.L.); (T.I.); (A.R.)
| | - Orietta Spinelli
- Hematology Unit, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST), Ospedale Papa Giovanni XXIII, 24127 Bergamo, Italy; (M.T.); (O.S.); (R.C.); (C.P.); (F.L.); (T.I.); (A.R.)
| | - Matteo Leoncin
- Hematology Unit, Azienda Ulss3 Serenissima, Ospedale dell’Angelo, 30174 Venezia-Mestre, Italy; (M.L.); (L.F.); (G.P.); (F.C.); (P.V.); (C.S.)
| | - Roberta Cavagna
- Hematology Unit, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST), Ospedale Papa Giovanni XXIII, 24127 Bergamo, Italy; (M.T.); (O.S.); (R.C.); (C.P.); (F.L.); (T.I.); (A.R.)
| | - Chiara Pavoni
- Hematology Unit, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST), Ospedale Papa Giovanni XXIII, 24127 Bergamo, Italy; (M.T.); (O.S.); (R.C.); (C.P.); (F.L.); (T.I.); (A.R.)
| | - Federico Lussana
- Hematology Unit, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST), Ospedale Papa Giovanni XXIII, 24127 Bergamo, Italy; (M.T.); (O.S.); (R.C.); (C.P.); (F.L.); (T.I.); (A.R.)
| | - Tamara Intermesoli
- Hematology Unit, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST), Ospedale Papa Giovanni XXIII, 24127 Bergamo, Italy; (M.T.); (O.S.); (R.C.); (C.P.); (F.L.); (T.I.); (A.R.)
| | - Luca Frison
- Hematology Unit, Azienda Ulss3 Serenissima, Ospedale dell’Angelo, 30174 Venezia-Mestre, Italy; (M.L.); (L.F.); (G.P.); (F.C.); (P.V.); (C.S.)
| | - Giulia Perali
- Hematology Unit, Azienda Ulss3 Serenissima, Ospedale dell’Angelo, 30174 Venezia-Mestre, Italy; (M.L.); (L.F.); (G.P.); (F.C.); (P.V.); (C.S.)
| | - Francesca Carobolante
- Hematology Unit, Azienda Ulss3 Serenissima, Ospedale dell’Angelo, 30174 Venezia-Mestre, Italy; (M.L.); (L.F.); (G.P.); (F.C.); (P.V.); (C.S.)
| | - Piera Viero
- Hematology Unit, Azienda Ulss3 Serenissima, Ospedale dell’Angelo, 30174 Venezia-Mestre, Italy; (M.L.); (L.F.); (G.P.); (F.C.); (P.V.); (C.S.)
| | - Cristina Skert
- Hematology Unit, Azienda Ulss3 Serenissima, Ospedale dell’Angelo, 30174 Venezia-Mestre, Italy; (M.L.); (L.F.); (G.P.); (F.C.); (P.V.); (C.S.)
| | - Alessandro Rambaldi
- Hematology Unit, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST), Ospedale Papa Giovanni XXIII, 24127 Bergamo, Italy; (M.T.); (O.S.); (R.C.); (C.P.); (F.L.); (T.I.); (A.R.)
- Department of Oncology-Hematology, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Renato Bassan
- Hematology Unit, Azienda Ulss3 Serenissima, Ospedale dell’Angelo, 30174 Venezia-Mestre, Italy; (M.L.); (L.F.); (G.P.); (F.C.); (P.V.); (C.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-041-965-7362
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Lato MW, Przysucha A, Grosman S, Zawitkowska J, Lejman M. The New Therapeutic Strategies in Pediatric T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22094502. [PMID: 33925883 PMCID: PMC8123476 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia is a genetically heterogeneous cancer that accounts for 10–15% of T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) cases. The T-ALL event-free survival rate (EFS) is 85%. The evaluation of structural and numerical chromosomal changes is important for a comprehensive biological characterization of T-ALL, but there are currently no genetic prognostic markers. Despite chemotherapy regimens, steroids, and allogeneic transplantation, relapse is the main problem in children with T-ALL. Due to the development of high-throughput molecular methods, the ability to define subgroups of T-ALL has significantly improved in the last few years. The profiling of the gene expression of T-ALL has led to the identification of T-ALL subgroups, and it is important in determining prognostic factors and choosing an appropriate treatment. Novel therapies targeting molecular aberrations offer promise in achieving better first remission with the hope of preventing relapse. The employment of precisely targeted therapeutic approaches is expected to improve the cure of the disease and quality of life of patients. These include therapies that inhibit Notch1 activation (bortezomib), JAK inhibitors in ETP-ALL (ruxolitinib), BCL inhibitors (venetoclax), and anti-CD38 therapy (daratumumab). Chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy (CAR-T) is under investigation, but it requires further development and trials. Nelarabine-based regimens remain the standard for treating the relapse of T-ALL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Weronika Lato
- Student Scientific Society, Laboratory of Genetic Diagnostics, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (M.W.L.); (A.P.); (S.G.)
| | - Anna Przysucha
- Student Scientific Society, Laboratory of Genetic Diagnostics, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (M.W.L.); (A.P.); (S.G.)
| | - Sylwia Grosman
- Student Scientific Society, Laboratory of Genetic Diagnostics, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (M.W.L.); (A.P.); (S.G.)
| | - Joanna Zawitkowska
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Transplantology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Monika Lejman
- Laboratory of Genetic Diagnostics, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
- Correspondence:
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LINC00511 exacerbated T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia via miR-195-5p/LRRK1 axis. Biosci Rep 2021; 40:222566. [PMID: 32242897 PMCID: PMC7953487 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20193631] [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] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is a malignant disease arising from the abnormal proliferation of T lymphocyte in marrow. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are one kind of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), which were reported to modulate the initiation or progression of diverse cancers. However, the role of LINC00511 in T-ALL was unknown. To figure out the function and mechanism of LINC00511 in T-ALL, a series of experiments were carried out. Based on the experimental results, we discovered that LINC00511 boosted cell proliferation and invasion, but hindered cell apoptosis in T-ALL cells. Besides, based on bio-informatics tool, miR-195-5p was selected for further exploration. Then, miR-195-5p was validated to bind with LINC00511. Hereafter, LRRK1 was testified to serve as a target gene of miR-195-5p. At last, rescue assays suggested that LRRK1 overexpression restored sh-LINC00511#1-mediated effects on cell proliferation and apoptosis. All in all, LINC00511 exacerbated T-ALL progression via miR-195-5p/LRRK1 axis, implying a potential therapeutic clue for the patients with T-ALL.
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Kakarala KK, Jamil K. Identification of novel allosteric binding sites and multi-targeted allosteric inhibitors of receptor and non-receptor tyrosine kinases using a computational approach. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2021; 40:6889-6909. [PMID: 33682622 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2021.1891140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
EGFR1, VEGFR2, Bcr-Abl and Src kinases are key drug targets in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), bladder cancer, pancreatic cancer, CML, ALL, colorectal cancer, etc. The available drugs targeting these kinases have limited therapeutic efficacy due to novel mutations resulting in drug resistance and toxicity, as they target ATP binding site. Allosteric drugs have shown promising results in overcoming drug resistance, but the discovery of allosteric drugs is challenging. The allosteric binding pockets are difficult to predict, as they are generally associated with high energy conformations and regulate protein function in yet unknown mechanisms. In addition, the discovery of drugs using conventional methods takes long time and goes through several challenges, putting the lives of many cancer patients at risk. Therefore, the aim of the present work was to apply the most successful, drug repurposing approach in combination with computational methods to identify kinase inhibitors targeting novel allosteric sites on protein structure and assess their potential multi-kinase binding affinity. Multiple crystal structures belonging to EGFR1, VEGFR2, Bcr-Abl and Src tyrosine kinases were selected, including mutated, inhibitor bound and allosteric conformations to identify potential leads, close to physiological conditions. Interestingly the potential inhibitors identified were peptides. The drugs identified in this study could be used in therapy as a single multi-kinase inhibitor or in a combination of single kinase inhibitors after experimental validation. In addition, we have also identified new hot spots that are likely to be druggable allosteric sites for drug discovery of kinase-specific drugs in the future.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kaiser Jamil
- Bhagwan Mahavir Medical Research Center, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
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29
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Fathi E, Farahzadi R, Montazersaheb S, Bagheri Y. Epigenetic Modifications in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: From Cellular Mechanisms to Therapeutics. Curr Gene Ther 2021; 21:60-71. [PMID: 33183201 DOI: 10.2174/1566523220999201111194554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epigenetic modification pattern is considered as a characteristic feature in blood malignancies. Modifications in the DNA methylation modulators are recurrent in lymphoma and leukemia, so that the distinct methylation pattern defines different types of leukemia. Generally, the role of epigenetics is less understood, and most investigations are focused on genetic abnormalities and cytogenic studies to develop novel treatments for patients with hematologic disorders. Recently, understanding the underlying mechanism of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), especially epigenetic alterations as a driving force in the development of ALL opens a new era of investigation for developing promising strategy, beyond available conventional therapy. OBJECTIVE This review will focus on a better understanding of the epigenetic mechanisms in cancer development and progression, with an emphasis on epigenetic alterations in ALL including, DNA methylation, histone modification, and microRNA alterations. Other topics that will be discussed include the use of epigenetic alterations as a promising therapeutic target in order to develop novel, well-suited approaches against ALL. CONCLUSION According to the literature review, leukemogenesis of ALL is extensively influenced by epigenetic modifications, particularly DNA hyper-methylation, histone modification, and miRNA alteration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ezzatollah Fathi
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Raheleh Farahzadi
- Hematology and Oncology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Soheila Montazersaheb
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Yasin Bagheri
- Young Researchers and Elite Club, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran
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30
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Mroczek A, Zawitkowska J, Kowalczyk J, Lejman M. Comprehensive Overview of Gene Rearrangements in Childhood T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:E808. [PMID: 33467425 PMCID: PMC7829804 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22020808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) is a relevant form of childhood neoplasm, as it accounts for over 80% of all leukaemia cases. T-cell ALL constitutes a genetically heterogeneous cancer derived from T-lymphoid progenitors. The diagnosis of T-ALL is based on morphologic, immunophenotypic, cytogenetic, and molecular features, thus the results are used for patient stratification. Due to the expression of surface and intracellular antigens, several subtypes of T-ALL can be distinguished. Although the aetiology of T-ALL remains unclear, a wide spectrum of rearrangements and mutations affecting crucial signalling pathways has been described so far. Due to intensive chemotherapy regimens and supportive care, overall cure rates of more than 80% in paediatric T-ALL patients have been accomplished. However, improved knowledge of the mechanisms of relapse, drug resistance, and determination of risk factors are crucial for patients in the high-risk group. Even though some residual disease studies have allowed the optimization of therapy, the identification of novel diagnostic and prognostic markers is required to individualize therapy. The following review summarizes our current knowledge about genetic abnormalities in paediatric patients with T-ALL. As molecular biology techniques provide insights into the biology of cancer, our study focuses on new potential therapeutic targets and predictive factors which may improve the outcome of young patients with T-ALL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Mroczek
- Department of Paediatric Haematology, Oncology and Transplantology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (A.M.); (J.Z.); (J.K.)
| | - Joanna Zawitkowska
- Department of Paediatric Haematology, Oncology and Transplantology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (A.M.); (J.Z.); (J.K.)
| | - Jerzy Kowalczyk
- Department of Paediatric Haematology, Oncology and Transplantology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (A.M.); (J.Z.); (J.K.)
| | - Monika Lejman
- Laboratory of Genetic Diagnostics, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
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Dovat E, Song C, Hu T, Rahman MA, Dhanyamraju PK, Klink M, Bogush D, Soliman M, Kane S, McGrath M, Ding Y, Desai D, Sharma A, Gowda C. Transcriptional Regulation of PIK3CD and PIKFYVE in T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia by IKAROS and Protein Kinase CK2. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22020819. [PMID: 33467550 PMCID: PMC7830534 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22020819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 01/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
IKAROS, encoded by the IKZF1 gene, is a DNA-binding protein that functions as a tumor suppressor in T cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL). Recent studies have identified IKAROS’s novel function in the epigenetic regulation of gene expression in T-ALL and uncovered many genes that are likely to be directly regulated by IKAROS. Here, we report the transcriptional regulation of two genes, phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase catalytic subunit delta (PIK3CD) and phosphoinositide kinase, FYVE-type zinc finger containing (PIKFYVE), by IKAROS in T-ALL. PIK3CD encodes the protein p110δ subunit of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K). The PI3K/AKT pathway is frequently dysregulated in cancers, including T-ALL. IKAROS binds to the promoter regions of PIK3CD and PIKFYVE and reduces their transcription in primary T-ALL. Functional analysis demonstrates that IKAROS functions as a transcriptional repressor of both PIK3CD and PIKFYVE. Protein kinase CK2 (CK2) is a pro-oncogenic kinase that is overexpressed in T-ALL. CK2 phosphorylates IKAROS, impairs IKAROS’s DNA-binding ability, and functions as a repressor of PIK3CD and PIKFYVE. CK2 inhibition results in increased IKAROS binding to the promoters of PIK3CD and PIKFYVE and the transcriptional repression of both these genes. Overall, the presented data demonstrate for the first time that in T-ALL, CK2 hyperactivity contributes to PI3K signaling pathway upregulation, at least in part, through impaired IKAROS transcriptional regulation of PIK3CD and PIKFYVE. Targeting CK2 restores IKAROS’s regulatory effects on the PI3K oncogenic signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elanora Dovat
- Department of Pediatrics, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA; (E.D.); (C.S.); (T.H.); (M.A.R.); (P.K.D.); (M.K.); (D.B.); (M.S.); (S.K.); (M.M.); (Y.D.)
| | - Chunhua Song
- Department of Pediatrics, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA; (E.D.); (C.S.); (T.H.); (M.A.R.); (P.K.D.); (M.K.); (D.B.); (M.S.); (S.K.); (M.M.); (Y.D.)
- Ohio State University School of Medicine, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Tommy Hu
- Department of Pediatrics, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA; (E.D.); (C.S.); (T.H.); (M.A.R.); (P.K.D.); (M.K.); (D.B.); (M.S.); (S.K.); (M.M.); (Y.D.)
| | - Mohammad Atiqur Rahman
- Department of Pediatrics, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA; (E.D.); (C.S.); (T.H.); (M.A.R.); (P.K.D.); (M.K.); (D.B.); (M.S.); (S.K.); (M.M.); (Y.D.)
| | - Pavan Kumar Dhanyamraju
- Department of Pediatrics, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA; (E.D.); (C.S.); (T.H.); (M.A.R.); (P.K.D.); (M.K.); (D.B.); (M.S.); (S.K.); (M.M.); (Y.D.)
| | - Morgann Klink
- Department of Pediatrics, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA; (E.D.); (C.S.); (T.H.); (M.A.R.); (P.K.D.); (M.K.); (D.B.); (M.S.); (S.K.); (M.M.); (Y.D.)
| | - Daniel Bogush
- Department of Pediatrics, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA; (E.D.); (C.S.); (T.H.); (M.A.R.); (P.K.D.); (M.K.); (D.B.); (M.S.); (S.K.); (M.M.); (Y.D.)
| | - Mario Soliman
- Department of Pediatrics, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA; (E.D.); (C.S.); (T.H.); (M.A.R.); (P.K.D.); (M.K.); (D.B.); (M.S.); (S.K.); (M.M.); (Y.D.)
| | - Shriya Kane
- Department of Pediatrics, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA; (E.D.); (C.S.); (T.H.); (M.A.R.); (P.K.D.); (M.K.); (D.B.); (M.S.); (S.K.); (M.M.); (Y.D.)
| | - Mary McGrath
- Department of Pediatrics, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA; (E.D.); (C.S.); (T.H.); (M.A.R.); (P.K.D.); (M.K.); (D.B.); (M.S.); (S.K.); (M.M.); (Y.D.)
| | - Yali Ding
- Department of Pediatrics, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA; (E.D.); (C.S.); (T.H.); (M.A.R.); (P.K.D.); (M.K.); (D.B.); (M.S.); (S.K.); (M.M.); (Y.D.)
| | - Dhimant Desai
- Department of Pharmacology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA; (D.D.); (A.S.)
| | - Arati Sharma
- Department of Pharmacology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA; (D.D.); (A.S.)
| | - Chandrika Gowda
- Department of Pediatrics, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA; (E.D.); (C.S.); (T.H.); (M.A.R.); (P.K.D.); (M.K.); (D.B.); (M.S.); (S.K.); (M.M.); (Y.D.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-91-717-531-6012
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Tamiro F, Weng AP, Giambra V. Targeting Leukemia-Initiating Cells in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Cancer Res 2021; 81:4165-4173. [PMID: 33414170 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-20-2571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The concept that different leukemias are developmentally distinct and, like in normal hematopoiesis, generated by restricted populations of cells named leukemia-initiating cells (LIC), is becoming more established. These cancer stem-like cells have been assumed to have unique properties, including the capability of self-renewing and giving rise to "differentiated" or non-LICs that make up the whole tumor. Cell populations enriched with LIC activity have been characterized in different hematopoietic malignancies, including human acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Related studies have also demonstrated that LICs are functionally distinct from bulk cells and modulated by distinct molecular signaling pathways and epigenetic mechanisms. Here we review several biological and clinical aspects related to LICs in ALL, including (i) immunophenotypic characterization of LIC-enriched subsets in human and mouse models of ALL, (ii) emerging therapeutics against regulatory signaling pathways involved in LIC progression and maintenance in T- and B-cell leukemias, (iii) novel epigenetic and age-related mechanisms of LIC propagation, and (iv) ongoing efforts in immunotherapy to eradicate LIC-enriched cell subsets in relapsed and refractory ALL cases. Current conventional treatments do not efficiently eliminate LICs. Therefore, innovative therapeutics that exclusively target LICs hold great promise for developing an effective cure for ALL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Tamiro
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology, Regenerative Medicine and Innovative Therapies (ISBReMIT), Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Andrew P Weng
- Terry Fox Laboratory, BC Cancer Agency, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Vincenzo Giambra
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology, Regenerative Medicine and Innovative Therapies (ISBReMIT), Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy.
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Sırma Ekmekci S, Emrence Z, Abacı N, Sarıman M, Salman B, Ekmekci CG, Güleç Ç. LEF1 Induces DHRS2 Gene Expression in Human Acute Leukemia Jurkat T-Cells. Turk J Haematol 2020; 37:226-233. [PMID: 32586085 PMCID: PMC7702649 DOI: 10.4274/tjh.galenos.2020.2020.0144] [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] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is an aggressive disease resulting from the accumulation of genetic changes that affect the development of T-cells. The precise role of lymphoid enhancer-binding factor 1 (LEF1) in T-ALL has been controversial since both overexpression and inactivating LEF1 mutations have been reported to date. Here, we investigate the potential gene targets of LEF1 in the Jurkat human T-cell leukemia cell line. Materials and Methods We used small interfering RNA (siRNA) technology to knock down LEF1 in Jurkat cells and then compared the gene expression levels in the LEF1 knockdown cells with non-targeting siRNA-transfected and non-transfected cells by employing microarray analysis. Results We identified DHRS2, a tumor suppressor gene, as the most significantly downregulated gene in LEF1 knockdown cells, and we further confirmed its downregulation by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) in mRNA and at protein level by western blotting. Conclusion Our results revealed that DHRS2 is positively regulated by LEF1 in Jurkat cells, which indicates the capability of LEF1 as a tumor suppressor and, together with previous reports, suggests that LEF1 exhibits a regulatory role in T-ALL via not only its oncogenic targets but also tumor suppressor genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sema Sırma Ekmekci
- İstanbul University, Aziz Sancar Institute of Experimental Medicine, Department of Genetics, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Zeliha Emrence
- İstanbul University, Aziz Sancar Institute of Experimental Medicine, Department of Genetics, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Neslihan Abacı
- İstanbul University, Aziz Sancar Institute of Experimental Medicine, Department of Genetics, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Melda Sarıman
- İstanbul University, Aziz Sancar Institute of Experimental Medicine, Department of Genetics, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Burcu Salman
- İstanbul University, Aziz Sancar Institute of Experimental Medicine, Department of Genetics, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Cumhur Gökhan Ekmekci
- İstanbul University, Aziz Sancar Institute of Experimental Medicine, Department of Genetics, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Çağrı Güleç
- İstanbul University, Aziz Sancar Institute of Experimental Medicine, Department of Genetics, İstanbul, Turkey
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Bonaccorso P, Bugarin C, Buracchi C, Fazio G, Biondi A, Lo Nigro L, Gaipa G. Single‐cell profiling of pediatric T‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia: Impact of
PTEN
exon 7 mutation on
PI3K
/
Akt
and
JAK–STAT
signaling pathways. CYTOMETRY PART B-CLINICAL CYTOMETRY 2020; 98:491-503. [DOI: 10.1002/cyto.b.21882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Revised: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Paola Bonaccorso
- M. Tettamanti Research Center University of Milano‐Bicocca, San Gerardo Hospital Monza Italy
- Center of Pediatric Hematology Oncology Azienda Policlinico‐OVE, University of Catania Catania Italy
| | - Cristina Bugarin
- M. Tettamanti Research Center University of Milano‐Bicocca, San Gerardo Hospital Monza Italy
| | - Chiara Buracchi
- M. Tettamanti Research Center University of Milano‐Bicocca, San Gerardo Hospital Monza Italy
| | - Grazia Fazio
- M. Tettamanti Research Center University of Milano‐Bicocca, San Gerardo Hospital Monza Italy
| | - Andrea Biondi
- M. Tettamanti Research Center University of Milano‐Bicocca, San Gerardo Hospital Monza Italy
- Pediatric Clinic University of Milano Bicocca, Fondazione MBBM/Ospedale San Gerardo Monza Italy
| | - Luca Lo Nigro
- Center of Pediatric Hematology Oncology Azienda Policlinico‐OVE, University of Catania Catania Italy
| | - Giuseppe Gaipa
- M. Tettamanti Research Center University of Milano‐Bicocca, San Gerardo Hospital Monza Italy
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Perera Y, Melão A, Ramón AC, Vázquez D, Ribeiro D, Perea SE, Barata JT. Clinical-Grade Peptide-Based Inhibition of CK2 Blocks Viability and Proliferation of T-ALL Cells and Counteracts IL-7 Stimulation and Stromal Support. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12061377. [PMID: 32471246 PMCID: PMC7352628 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12061377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite remarkable advances in the treatment of T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL), relapsed cases are still a major challenge. Moreover, even successful cases often face long-term treatment-associated toxicities. Targeted therapeutics may overcome these limitations. We have previously demonstrated that casein kinase 2 (CK2)-mediated phosphatase and tensin homologue (PTEN) posttranslational inactivation, and consequent phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling hyperactivation, leads to increased T-ALL cell survival and proliferation. We also revealed the existence of a crosstalk between CK2 activity and the signaling mediated by interleukin 7 (IL-7), a critical leukemia-supportive cytokine. Here, we evaluated the impact of CIGB-300, a the clinical-grade peptide-based CK2 inhibitor CIGB-300 on T-ALL biology. We demonstrate that CIGB-300 decreases the viability and proliferation of T-ALL cell lines and diagnostic patient samples. Moreover, CIGB-300 overcomes IL-7-mediated T-ALL cell growth and viability, while preventing the positive effects of OP9-delta-like 1 (DL1) stromal support on leukemia cells. Signaling and pull-down experiments indicate that the CK2 substrate nucleophosmin 1 (B23/NPM1) and CK2 itself are the molecular targets for CIGB-300 in T-ALL cells. However, B23/NPM1 silencing only partially recapitulates the anti-leukemia effects of the peptide, suggesting that CIGB-300-mediated direct binding to CK2, and consequent CK2 inactivation, is the mechanism by which CIGB-300 downregulates PTEN S380 phosphorylation and inhibits PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. In the context of IL-7 stimulation, CIGB-300 blocks janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) signaling pathway in T-ALL cells. Altogether, our results strengthen the case for anti-CK2 therapeutic intervention in T-ALL, demonstrating that CIGB-300 (given its ability to circumvent the effects of pro-leukemic microenvironmental cues) may be a valid tool for clinical intervention in this aggressive malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasser Perera
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Havana 10600, Cuba; (Y.P.); (A.C.R.); (S.E.P.)
| | - Alice Melão
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal; (A.M.); (D.R.)
| | - Ailyn C. Ramón
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Havana 10600, Cuba; (Y.P.); (A.C.R.); (S.E.P.)
| | - Dania Vázquez
- Pharmacogenomics Department, Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Havana 10600, Cuba;
| | - Daniel Ribeiro
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal; (A.M.); (D.R.)
| | - Silvio E. Perea
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Havana 10600, Cuba; (Y.P.); (A.C.R.); (S.E.P.)
| | - João T. Barata
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal; (A.M.); (D.R.)
- Correspondence:
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Khoshamooz H, Kaviani S, Atashi A, Mirpour Hassankiadeh SH. Combination Effect of Notch1 and PI3K/AKT/mTOR Signaling Pathways Inhibitors on T-ALL Cell Lines. Int J Hematol Oncol Stem Cell Res 2020; 14:99-109. [PMID: 32461793 PMCID: PMC7231796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Acute T lymphoblastic Leukemia (T-ALL) is a highly aggressive hematologic malignancy. Chemotherapy resistance is one of the most important challenges in T-ALL treatment. Alterations in cellular signaling pathways such as Notch1 and PI3K/AKT/mTOR play a role in cell proliferation, survival, and resistance to chemotherapy. Combination of Notch1 and PI3K/AKT/mTOR inhibitors is an interesting and rational strategy in treatment of T-ALL. Interaction of AZD5363 as an inhibitor of PI3k/AKT/mTOR and Compound E as an inhibitor of Notch1 signaling pathway was investigated in a T-ALL pre-clinical model. Materials and Methods: T-ALL cell lines included Jurkat, Molt-4, and HPB- ALL cells were treated with AZD5363 and Compound E alone and in combination. Cell viability was determined by MTT assay. Flow cytometry was used to measure apoptosis. Interaction between AZD5363 and Compound E was assessed by Chou-Talalay method. Results: Combination treatment with AZD5363 and Compound E decreased cell viability with synergistic effect in all cell lines at 72 hours. Drug combination increased apoptosis even in Jurkat and HPB-ALL cells resistant to Compound E and AZD5363, respectively. Conclusion: Combination of AZD5363 with Compound E in T-ALL cell lines exhibited a synergistic effect. Cytotoxicity of drug combination increased in all T-ALL cell lines compared to each as a single drug. Simultaneous inhibition of Notch1 and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways as a possible treatment of T-ALL, provides a basis for future investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Halimeh Khoshamooz
- Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, Faculty of Medicine, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeid Kaviani
- Department of Hematology, Faculty of Medicine, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Atashi
- Department of Basic Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
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Fattizzo B, Rosa J, Giannotta JA, Baldini L, Fracchiolla NS. The Physiopathology of T- Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: Focus on Molecular Aspects. Front Oncol 2020; 10:273. [PMID: 32185137 PMCID: PMC7059203 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.00273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma is an aggressive hematological neoplasm whose classification is still based on immunophenotypic findings. Frontline treatment encompass high intensity combination chemotherapy with good overall survival; however, relapsing/refractory patients have very limited options. In the last years, the understanding of molecular physiopathology of this disease, lead to the identification of a subset of patients with peculiar genetic profile, namely “early T-cell precursors” lymphoblastic leukemia, characterized by dismal outcome and indication to frontline allogeneic bone marrow transplant. In general, the most common mutations occur in the NOTCH1/FBXW7 pathway (60% of adult patients), with a positive prognostic impact. Other pathogenic steps encompass transcriptional deregulation of oncogenes/oncosuppressors, cell cycle deregulation, kinase signaling (including IL7R-JAK-STAT pathway, PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, RAS/MAPK signaling pathway, ABL1 signaling pathway), epigenetic deregulation, ribosomal dysfunction, and altered expression of oncogenic miRNAs or long non-coding RNA. The insight in the genomic landscape of the disease paves the way to the use of novel targeted drugs that might improve the outcome, particularly in relapse/refractory patients. In this review, we analyse available literature on T-ALL pathogenesis, focusing on molecular aspects of clinical, prognostic, and therapeutic significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Fattizzo
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico di Milano, Milan, Italy.,Dipartimento di Oncologia ed Oncoematologia, Università degli studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Jessica Rosa
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico di Milano, Milan, Italy.,Dipartimento di Oncologia ed Oncoematologia, Università degli studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Juri Alessandro Giannotta
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico di Milano, Milan, Italy.,Dipartimento di Oncologia ed Oncoematologia, Università degli studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Baldini
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico di Milano, Milan, Italy.,Dipartimento di Oncologia ed Oncoematologia, Università degli studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
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Wang Y, Liu Y, Zhou C, Wang C, Zhang N, Cao D, Li Q, Wang Z. An AKR1C3-specific prodrug with potent anti-tumor activities against T-ALL. Leuk Lymphoma 2020; 61:1660-1668. [PMID: 32091283 DOI: 10.1080/10428194.2020.1728746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yanlan Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yue Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Changhua Zhou
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chunnian Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ning Zhang
- Department of Urology, Peking University Cancer Hospital, Beijing Institute for Cancer Research, Beijing, China
| | - Donglin Cao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qing Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhong Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Autophagy Inhibition Potentiates the Anticancer Effects of a Bendamustine Derivative NL-101 in Acute T Lymphocytic Leukemia. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 2020:1520651. [PMID: 32149078 PMCID: PMC7042524 DOI: 10.1155/2020/1520651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Revised: 12/28/2019] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Acute T lymphocytic leukemia (T-ALL) is an aggressive hematologic resulting from the malignant transformation of T-cell progenitors. Drug resistance and relapse are major difficulties in the treatment of T-ALL. Here, we report the antitumor potency of NL-101, a compound that combines the nitrogen mustard group of bendamustine with the hydroxamic acid group of vorinostat. We found NL-101 exhibited efficient antiproliferative activity in T-ALL cell lines (IC50 1.59–1.89 μM), accompanied by cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, as evidenced by the increased expression of Cyclin E1, CDK2, and CDK4 proteins and cleavage of PARP. In addition, this bendamustine-derived drug showed both a HDACi effect as demonstrated by histone hyperacetylation and p21 transcription and a DNA-damaging effect as shown by an increase in γ-H2AX. Intriguingly, we found that NL-101-induced autophagy in T-ALL cells through inhibiting Akt-mTOR signaling pathway, as indicated by an increase in LC3-I to LC3-II conversion and decrease of p62. Furthermore, inhibition of autophagy by 3-methyladenine increased apoptotic cell death by NL-101, suggesting a prosurvival role of autophagy. In summary, our finding provides rationale for investigation of NL-101 as a DNA/HDAC dual targeting drug in T-ALL, either as a single agent or in combination with autophagy inhibitors.
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40
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Evangelisti C, Chiarini F, Cappellini A, Paganelli F, Fini M, Santi S, Martelli AM, Neri LM, Evangelisti C. Targeting Wnt/β-catenin and PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathways in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. J Cell Physiol 2020; 235:5413-5428. [PMID: 31904116 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.29429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is an aggressive hematological disorder that results from the clonal transformation of T-cell precursors. Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt/mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) and canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways play a crucial role in T-cell development and in self-renewal of healthy and leukemic stem cells. Notably, β-catenin is a transcriptional regulator of several genes involved in cancer cell proliferation and survival. In this way, aberrations of components belonging to the aforementioned networks contribute to T-ALL pathogenesis. For this reason, inhibition of both pathways could represent an innovative strategy in this hematological malignancy. Here, we show that combined targeting of Wnt/β-catenin pathway through ICG-001, a CBP/β-catenin transcription inhibitor, and of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR axis through ZSTK-474, a PI3K inhibitor, downregulated proliferation, survival, and clonogenic activity of T-ALL cells. ICG-001 and ZSTK-474 displayed cytotoxic effects, and, when combined together, induced a significant increase in apoptotic cells. This induction of apoptosis was associated with the downregulation of Wnt/β-catenin and PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathways. All these findings were confirmed under hypoxic conditions that mimic the bone marrow niche where leukemic stem cells are believed to reside. Taken together, our findings highlight potentially promising treatment consisting of cotargeting Wnt/β-catenin and PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathways in T-ALL settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Evangelisti
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesca Chiarini
- CNR Institute of Molecular Genetics "Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza", Bologna, Italy.,IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alessandra Cappellini
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesca Paganelli
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Milena Fini
- IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy
| | - Spartaco Santi
- CNR Institute of Molecular Genetics "Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza", Bologna, Italy.,IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alberto M Martelli
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Luca M Neri
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,LTTA-Electron Microscopy Center, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Camilla Evangelisti
- CNR Institute of Molecular Genetics "Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza", Bologna, Italy.,IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy
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41
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The effect of co-occurring lesions on leukaemogenesis and drug response in T-ALL and ETP-ALL. Br J Cancer 2019; 122:455-464. [PMID: 31792348 PMCID: PMC7028932 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-019-0647-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Revised: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite advances in the management of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL), current regimens fail to significantly transform outcomes for patients with high-risk subtypes. Advances in genomic analyses have identified novel lesions including mutations in genes that encode chromatin modifiers and those that influence cytokine and kinase signalling, rendering many of these alterations potentially targetable by tyrosine kinase and epigenetic inhibitors currently in clinical use. Although specific genomic lesions, gene expression patterns, and immunophenotypic profiles have been associated with specific clinical outcomes in some cancers, the application of precision medicine approaches based on these data has been slow. This approach is complicated by the reality that patients often harbour multiple mutations, and in many cases, the precise functional significance and interaction of these mutations in driving leukaemia and drug responsiveness/resistance remains unknown. Given that signalling pathways driving leukaemic pathogenesis could plausibly result from the co-existence of specific lesions and the resultant perturbation of protein interactions, the use of combined therapeutics that target multiple aberrant pathways, according to an individual’s mutational profile, might improve outcomes and lower a patient’s risk of relapse. Here we outline the genomic alterations that occur in T cell ALL (T-ALL) and early T cell precursor (ETP)-ALL and review studies highlighting the possible effects of co-occurring lesions on leukaemogenesis and drug response.
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42
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Primary Mediastinal Nodal and Extranodal Non-Hodgkin Lymphomas: Current Concepts, Historical Evolution, and Useful Diagnostic Approach: Part 2. Adv Anat Pathol 2019; 26:371-389. [PMID: 31567129 DOI: 10.1097/pap.0000000000000248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Primary mediastinal non-Hodgkin lymphomas (PM-NHLs) represent ∼5% of all non-Hodgkin lymphomas (NHLs) and comprise lymphomas of B-cell and T-cell origin. PM-NHLs are defined as involvement of mediastinal lymph nodes, thymus, and/or mediastinal organs (heart, lung, pleura, pericardium) by NHL without evidence of systemic disease at presentation. The clinical scenario is variable and depends on the lymphoma subtype. The radiologic presentation is also variable ranging from a mediastinal mass with or without superior vena cava syndrome, a pleural or a cardiac mass associated with effusion, or as an effusion only. The diagnosis of PM-NHLs can only be established by microscopic evaluation, and therefore, general pathologists should be aware of these tumors and familiar with their diagnostic approach. The most common anterior mediastinal NHLs (90% to 95%) are primary mediastinal (PM) large B-cell lymphoma and T-lymphoblastic lymphoma. Thymic marginal zone lymphoma and mediastinal gray zone lymphoma are very rare. The remainder PM-NHLs involving middle or posterior mediastinum include diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and rare cases of T-cell lymphoma, including anaplastic large cell lymphoma and breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma extending to the anterior mediastinum. Primary pleural and cardiac NHLs are mostly DLBCLs. Other rare subtypes of PM-NHLs include DLBCL associated with chronic inflammation/pyothorax-associated lymphoma, fibrin-associated DLBCL (both Epstein-Barr virus positive), and pleural and/or pericardial primary effusion lymphoma (human herpesvirus-8 positive/Epstein-Barr virus positive). We review the historical aspects, epidemiology, clinicoradiologic features, histopathology, immunohistochemistry, differential diagnosis, and relevant cytogenetic and molecular features of the remaining mediastinal B-cell lymphomas, including primary thymic marginal zone lymphoma of the mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue type, other PM small B-cell lymphomas, PM plasmacytoma, and the most relevant PM T-cell lymphomas.
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Paganelli F, Lonetti A, Anselmi L, Martelli AM, Evangelisti C, Chiarini F. New advances in targeting aberrant signaling pathways in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Adv Biol Regul 2019; 74:100649. [PMID: 31523031 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbior.2019.100649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2019] [Revised: 08/24/2019] [Accepted: 09/03/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is an aggressive disorder characterized by malignant transformation of immature progenitors primed towards T-cell development. Over the past 15 years, advances in the molecular characterization of T-ALL have uncovered oncogenic key drivers and crucial signaling pathways of this disease, opening new chances for the development of novel therapeutic strategies. Currently, T-ALL patients are still treated with aggressive therapies, consisting of high dose multiagent chemotherapy. To minimize and overcome the unfavorable effects of these regimens, it is critical to identify innovative targets and test selective inhibitors of such targets. Major efforts are being made to develop small molecules against deregulated signaling pathways, which sustain T-ALL cell growth, survival, metabolism, and drug-resistance. This review will focus on recent improvements in the understanding of the signaling pathways involved in the pathogenesis of T-ALL and on the challenging opportunities for T-ALL targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Paganelli
- Institute of Molecular Genetics, Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza-CNR National Research Council of Italy, Bologna, Italy; IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy; Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Annalisa Lonetti
- "Giorgio Prodi" Cancer Research Center, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Laura Anselmi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic, and Neural Sciences, Section of Morphology, Signal Transduction Unit, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Alberto M Martelli
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Camilla Evangelisti
- Institute of Molecular Genetics, Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza-CNR National Research Council of Italy, Bologna, Italy; IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesca Chiarini
- Institute of Molecular Genetics, Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza-CNR National Research Council of Italy, Bologna, Italy; IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy.
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Mirji G, Banavali S, Sengar M, Chiplunkar SV. Immunophenotype and function define TCRγδ + T-ALL as a distinct subgroup from TCRαβ + T-ALL patients. Leuk Lymphoma 2019; 61:108-117. [PMID: 31393182 DOI: 10.1080/10428194.2019.1650174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
We recently demonstrated TCRγδ + T-ALL as a distinct subgroup from TCRαβ + T-ALL at genomic level. TCRγδ + T-ALL subgroup possess significant survival advantage compared to TCRαβ + T-ALL. In the present study, functional level differences in these two subgroups of T-ALL were studied to understand the immune scenario contributing to survival benefit of TCRγδ + T-ALL subgroup. TCRγδ clonal T-ALL patients showed significantly high levels of γδ T cells compared to TCRαβ clonal T-ALL patients. TCRγδ + T-ALL patients expressed significantly high central memory and terminally differentiated (TemRA) Vδ1 and Vδ2 T cells. TCR γδ clonal leukemic blasts stimulated increased number of Vδ2 T cells from healthy lymphocytes. TCR γδ clonal leukemic blasts were able to form efficient immune synapse with effector γδ T cells. The differences in immunophenotype, cytotoxicity and immune synapse formations corroborate TCRγδ + T-ALL as a distinct subgroup from TCRαβ + T-ALL patients and explain the survival benefit of TCRγδ + T-ALL patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gauri Mirji
- Chiplunkar Lab, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer (ACTREC), Tata Memorial Centre, Navi Mumbai, India.,Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - Shripad Banavali
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India.,Department of Medical Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, India
| | - Manju Sengar
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India.,Department of Medical Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, India
| | - Shubhada V Chiplunkar
- Chiplunkar Lab, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer (ACTREC), Tata Memorial Centre, Navi Mumbai, India.,Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
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De Smedt R, Morscio J, Goossens S, Van Vlierberghe P. Targeting steroid resistance in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Blood Rev 2019; 38:100591. [PMID: 31353059 DOI: 10.1016/j.blre.2019.100591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2019] [Revised: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is characterized by a variable response to steroids during induction and/or consolidation therapy. Notably, recent work suggested that these differences in glucocorticoid sensitivity might, at least in part, be mediated by hyperactivation of specific oncogenic pathways such as RAS/MEK/ERK, PI3K/AKT and IL7R/JAK/STAT. In this review, we elaborate on putative associations between aberrant signaling, therapy resistance, incidence of relapse and clinical outcome in human T-ALL. Furthermore, we emphasize that this potential association with clinical parameters might also be mediated by the tumor microenvironment as a result of increased sensitivity of leukemic T-cells towards cytokine induced signaling pathway activation. With this in mind, we provide an overview of small molecule inhibitors that might have clinical potential for the treatment of human T-ALL in the near future as a result of their ability to overcome steroid resistance thereby potentially increasing survival rates in this aggressive hematological neoplasm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renate De Smedt
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium
| | - Julie Morscio
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium
| | - Steven Goossens
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium; Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Pieter Van Vlierberghe
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.
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46
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Nemkov T, D'Alessandro A, Reisz JA. Metabolic underpinnings of leukemia pathology and treatment. Cancer Rep (Hoboken) 2019; 2:e1139. [PMID: 32721091 DOI: 10.1002/cnr2.1139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2018] [Revised: 08/24/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Carcinogenic transformation of white blood cells during hematopoiesis leads to the development of leukemia, a cancer characterized by incompetent immune cells and a disruption of normal bone marrow function. Leukemias are diverse in type, affected population, prognosis, and treatment regimen, yet a common theme in leukemia is the dysregulated metabolism of leukemic cells and leukemic stem cells with respect to their noncancerous counterparts. RECENT FINDINGS In this review, we highlight current findings that elucidate metabolic traits unique to the four major types of leukemia, which confer carcinogenic survival but can be potentially exploited for therapeutic intervention. These metabolic features can work in conjunction with or be independent of unique aspects of the bone marrow microenvironment that can also influence cell survival and proliferation, thus sustaining carcinogenesis. CONCLUSION Deepening our understanding of the interactions of leukemias with their niche environments in vivo will inform future treatments for leukemia, particularly for those that are refractive to tyrosine kinase inhibitors and other therapeutic mainstays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Travis Nemkov
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Angelo D'Alessandro
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Julie A Reisz
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
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47
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Zhang H, He X, Ni D, Mou L, Chen X, Lu S. How does the novel T315L mutation of breakpoint cluster region-abelson (BCR-ABL) kinase confer resistance to ponatinib: a comparative molecular dynamics simulation study. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2019; 38:89-100. [DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2019.1567390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Hao Zhang
- Department of Pathophysiology Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinheng He
- Department of Pathophysiology Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Duan Ni
- Department of Pathophysiology Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Linkai Mou
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medicinal University, Wei fang, Shandong, China
| | - Xiangyu Chen
- Department of Medicinal Laboratory, Weifang Medicinal University, Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Shaoyong Lu
- Department of Pathophysiology Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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48
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Targeting PI3K Signaling in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20020412. [PMID: 30669372 PMCID: PMC6358886 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20020412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2018] [Revised: 01/13/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Adhesion of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) cells to bone marrow stroma cells triggers intracellular signals regulating cell-adhesion-mediated drug resistance (CAM-DR). Stromal cell protection of ALL cells has been shown to require active AKT. In chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), adhesion-mediated activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway is reported. A novel FDA-approved PI3Kδ inhibitor, CAL-101/idelalisib, leads to downregulation of p-AKT and increased apoptosis of CLL cells. Recently, two additional PI3K inhibitors have received FDA approval. As the PI3K/AKT pathway is also implicated in adhesion-mediated survival of ALL cells, PI3K inhibitors have been evaluated preclinically in ALL. However, PI3K inhibition has yet to be approved for clinical use in ALL. Here, we review the role of PI3K in normal hematopoietic cells, and in ALL. We focus on summarizing targeting strategies of PI3K in ALL.
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49
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Kimura S, Seki M, Yoshida K, Shiraishi Y, Akiyama M, Koh K, Imamura T, Manabe A, Hayashi Y, Kobayashi M, Oka A, Miyano S, Ogawa S, Takita J. NOTCH1 pathway activating mutations and clonal evolution in pediatric T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Cancer Sci 2019; 110:784-794. [PMID: 30387229 PMCID: PMC6361559 DOI: 10.1111/cas.13859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2018] [Revised: 10/30/2018] [Accepted: 10/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Molecular mechanisms involved in the relapse of T‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T‐ALL) are not fully understood, although activating NOTCH1 signaling due to NOTCH1/FBXW7 alterations is a major oncogenic driver. To unravel the relevance of NOTCH1/FBXW7 mutations associated with relapse, we performed whole–exome sequencing in 30 pediatric T‐ALL cases, among which 11 diagnosis‐relapse paired cases were further investigated to track the clonal evolution of relapse using amplicon–based deep sequencing. NOTCH1/FBXW7 alterations were detected in 73.3% (diagnosis) and 72.7% (relapse) of cases. Single nucleotide variations in the heterodimerization domain were the most frequent (40.0%) at diagnosis, whereas proline, glutamic acid, serine, threonine–rich (PEST) domain alterations were the most frequent at relapse (54.5%). Comparison between non–relapsed and relapsed cases at diagnosis showed a predominance of PEST alterations in relapsed cases (P = .045), although we failed to validate this in the TARGET cohort. Based on the clonal analysis of diagnosis‐relapse samples, we identified NOTCH1 “switching” characterized by different NOTCH1 mutations in a major clone between diagnosis and relapse samples in 2 out of 11 diagnosis‐relapse paired cases analyzed. We found another NOTCH1 “switching” case in a previously reported Berlin‐Frankfurt‐Münster cohort (n = 13), indicating NOTCH1 importance in both the development and progression of T‐ALL. Despite the limitations of having a small sample size and a non–minimal residual disease–based protocol, our results suggest that the presence of NOTCH1 mutations might contribute to the disease relapse of T‐ALL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shunsuke Kimura
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Pediatrics, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Masafumi Seki
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kenichi Yoshida
- Department of Pathology and Tumor Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yuichi Shiraishi
- Laboratory of DNA Information Analysis, Human Genome Center, Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masaharu Akiyama
- Department of Pediatrics, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Katsuyoshi Koh
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Saitama Children's Medical Center, Saitama, Japan
| | - Toshihiko Imamura
- Department of Pediatrics, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Atsushi Manabe
- Department of Pediatrics, St. Luke's International Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Masao Kobayashi
- Department of Pediatrics, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Akira Oka
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satoru Miyano
- Laboratory of DNA Information Analysis, Human Genome Center, Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Seishi Ogawa
- Department of Pathology and Tumor Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Junko Takita
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Pediatrics, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
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50
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Almeida RS, Costa E Silva M, Coutinho LL, Garcia Gomes R, Pedrosa F, Massaro JD, Donadi EA, Lucena-Silva N. MicroRNA expression profiles discriminate childhood T- from B-acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Hematol Oncol 2018; 37:103-112. [PMID: 30393877 DOI: 10.1002/hon.2567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2018] [Revised: 07/10/2018] [Accepted: 10/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a critical role on biological and cellular processes; the search for functional markers may be of importance for differential diagnosis, prognosis, and development of new therapeutic regimens. In this context, we evaluated the bone marrow miRNA profile of Brazilian children exhibiting T- or B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL or B-ALL), using massive parallel sequencing, using the HiSeq 2500 platform (Illumina). The differential expression analysis was conducted considering a leave-one-out approach and FDR ≤ 0.05. Machine learning algorithms were applied to search for the disease subset biomarkers. Target prediction, functional enrichment, and classification of biological categories were also performed. Sixteen miRNAs were differentially expressed between T- and B-ALL, of which 10 (miR-708-5p, miR-497-5p, miR-151a-5p, miR-151b, miR-371b-5p, miR-455-5p, miR-195-5p, miR-1266-5p, miR-574-5p, and miR-425-5p) were downregulated and six (miR-450b-5p, miR-450a-5p, miR-542-5p, miR-424-5p, miR-629-5p, and miR-29c-5p) were upregulated in childhood T-ALL. These miRNAs may be used for distinguishing childhood lymphoblastic leukemia subtypes, since it provided the clear separation of patients in these two distinct groups. Six relevant biological pathways were identified according to their role in leukemia, namely, viral carcinogenesis, cell cycle, and B-cell receptor signaling pathways for induced miRNAs and TGF-beta signaling, apoptosis, and NF-kappa B signaling for the repressed miRNAs, of which several miRNA gene targets participate in cell differentiation and hematopoiesis processes. Machine learning analysis pointed out miR-29c-5p expression as the best discriminator between childhood T- and B-ALL, which is involved in calcium signaling, critical for B-cell lymphocyte fate. Further studies are needed to assure the role of the 16 miRNAs and miR-29c-5p on acute lymphoblastic leukemia subtypes and on disease prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Santos Almeida
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics, Department of Immunology, Aggeu Magalhães Institute, Recife, Brazil
| | - Matheus Costa E Silva
- Division of Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Luiz Lehmann Coutinho
- Animal Biotechnology Laboratory, Animal Science Department, University of São Paulo (USP)/Luiz de Queiroz College of Agriculture (ESALQ), Piracicaba, Brazil
| | - Renan Garcia Gomes
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics, Department of Immunology, Aggeu Magalhães Institute, Recife, Brazil
| | - Francisco Pedrosa
- Pediatric Oncology, Instituto de Medicina Integral Professor Fernando Figueira (IMIP) Hospital, Recife, Brazil
| | - Juliana Doblas Massaro
- Division of Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Antônio Donadi
- Division of Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Norma Lucena-Silva
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics, Department of Immunology, Aggeu Magalhães Institute, Recife, Brazil.,Pediatric Oncology, Instituto de Medicina Integral Professor Fernando Figueira (IMIP) Hospital, Recife, Brazil
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