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Limonta P, Chiaramonte R, Casati L. Unveiling the Dynamic Interplay between Cancer Stem Cells and the Tumor Microenvironment in Melanoma: Implications for Novel Therapeutic Strategies. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2861. [PMID: 39199632 PMCID: PMC11352669 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16162861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2024] [Revised: 08/07/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous melanoma still represents a significant health burden worldwide, being responsible for the majority of skin cancer deaths. Key advances in therapeutic strategies have significantly improved patient outcomes; however, most patients experience drug resistance and tumor relapse. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a small subpopulation of cells in different tumors, including melanoma, endowed with distinctive capacities of self-renewal and differentiation into bulk tumor cells. Melanoma CSCs are characterized by the expression of specific biomarkers and intracellular pathways; moreover, they play a pivotal role in tumor onset, progression and drug resistance. In recent years, great efforts have been made to dissect the molecular mechanisms underlying the protumor activities of melanoma CSCs to provide the basis for novel CSC-targeted therapies. Herein, we highlight the intricate crosstalk between melanoma CSCs and bystander cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME), including immune cells, endothelial cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), and its role in melanoma progression. Specifically, we discuss the peculiar capacities of melanoma CSCs to escape the host immune surveillance, to recruit immunosuppressive cells and to educate immune cells toward an immunosuppressive and protumor phenotype. We also address currently investigated CSC-targeted strategies that could pave the way for new promising therapeutic approaches for melanoma care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrizia Limonta
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences “R. Paoletti”, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Raffaella Chiaramonte
- Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milan, Italy;
| | - Lavinia Casati
- Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milan, Italy;
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Levati L, Tabolacci C, Facchiano A, Facchiano F, Alvino E, Antonini Cappellini GC, Scala E, Bonmassar L, Caporali S, Lacal PM, Bresin A, De Galitiis F, Russo G, D'Atri S. Circulating interleukin-8 and osteopontin are promising biomarkers of clinical outcomes in advanced melanoma patients treated with targeted therapy. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2024; 43:226. [PMID: 39143551 PMCID: PMC11325673 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-024-03151-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 08/04/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Circulating cytokines can represent non-invasive biomarkers to improve prediction of clinical outcomes of cancer patients. Here, plasma levels of IL-8, CCL4, osteopontin, LIF and BDNF were determined at baseline (T0), after 2 months of therapy (T2) and, when feasible, at progression (TP), in 70 melanoma patients treated with BRAF and MEK inhibitors. The association of baseline cytokine levels with clinical response, progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) was evaluated. METHODS Cytokine concentrations were measured using the xMAP technology. Their ability to discriminate between responding (Rs) and non-responding (NRs) patients was assessed by Receiver Operating Characteristics analysis. PFS and OS were estimated with the Kaplan-Meier method. The Cox proportional hazard model was used in the univariate and multivariate analyses to estimate crude and adjusted hazard ratios with 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS CCL4 and LIF were undetectable in the majority of samples. The median osteopontin concentration at T0 and T2 was significantly higher in NRs than in Rs. The median T0 and T2 values of IL-8 were also higher in NRs than in Rs, although the statistical significance was not reached. No differences were detected for BDNF. In 39 Rs with matched T0, T2, and TP samples, osteopontin and IL-8 significantly decreased from T0 to T2 and rose again at TP, while BDNF levels remained unchanged. In NRs, none of the cytokines showed a significant decrease at T2. Only osteopontin demonstrated a good ability to discriminate between Rs and NRs. A high IL-8 T0 level was associated with significantly shorter PFS and OS and higher risk of progression and mortality, and remained an independent negative prognostic factor for OS in multivariate analysis. An elevated osteopontin T0 concentration was also significantly associated with worse OS and increased risk of death. Patients with high IL-8 and high osteopontin showed the lowest PFS and OS, and in multivariate analysis this cytokine combination remained independently associated with a three- to six-fold increased risk of mortality. CONCLUSION Circulating IL-8 and osteopontin appear useful biomarkers to refine prognosis evaluation of patients undergoing targeted therapy, and deserve attention as potential targets to improve its clinical efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauretta Levati
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Istituto Dermopatico Dell'Immacolata, IDI-IRCCS, Via Dei Monti Di Creta 104, 00167, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio Tabolacci
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore Di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
- Present Address: Research Coordination and Support Service, Istituto Superiore Di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Facchiano
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Istituto Dermopatico Dell'Immacolata, IDI-IRCCS, Via Dei Monti Di Creta 104, 00167, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Facchiano
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore Di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Ester Alvino
- Institute of Translational Pharmacology, National Council of Research, Via Fosso del Cavaliere 100, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Gian Carlo Antonini Cappellini
- Department of Oncology and Dermatological Oncology, Istituto Dermopatico Dell'Immacolata, IDI-IRCCS, Via Dei Monti Di Creta 104, 00167, Rome, Italy
- Present Address: UOC Oncologia, Interpresidio ASL RM2, Via Dei Monti Tiburtini 387, 00157, Rome, Italy
| | - Enrico Scala
- Clinical and Laboratory Molecular Allergy Unit, Istituto Dermopatico Dell'Immacolata, IDI-IRCCS, Via Dei Monti Di Creta 104, 00167, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Bonmassar
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Istituto Dermopatico Dell'Immacolata, IDI-IRCCS, Via Dei Monti Di Creta 104, 00167, Rome, Italy
| | - Simona Caporali
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Istituto Dermopatico Dell'Immacolata, IDI-IRCCS, Via Dei Monti Di Creta 104, 00167, Rome, Italy
- Present Address: Regional Transplant Center Lazio (CRTL), San Camillo Hospital, Circonvallazione Gianicolense 87, 00152, Rome, Italy
| | - Pedro Miguel Lacal
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Istituto Dermopatico Dell'Immacolata, IDI-IRCCS, Via Dei Monti Di Creta 104, 00167, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella Bresin
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Istituto Dermopatico Dell'Immacolata, IDI-IRCCS, Via Dei Monti Di Creta 104, 00167, Rome, Italy
| | - Federica De Galitiis
- Department of Oncology and Dermatological Oncology, Istituto Dermopatico Dell'Immacolata, IDI-IRCCS, Via Dei Monti Di Creta 104, 00167, Rome, Italy
| | - Giandomenico Russo
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Istituto Dermopatico Dell'Immacolata, IDI-IRCCS, Via Dei Monti Di Creta 104, 00167, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefania D'Atri
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Istituto Dermopatico Dell'Immacolata, IDI-IRCCS, Via Dei Monti Di Creta 104, 00167, Rome, Italy.
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Liu Y, Li C, Liu H, Tan S. Combination therapy involving HSP90 inhibitors for combating cancer: an overview of clinical and preclinical progress. Arch Pharm Res 2024; 47:442-464. [PMID: 38632167 DOI: 10.1007/s12272-024-01494-1] [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: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
The molecular chaperone heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) regulates multiple crucial signalling pathways in cancer by driving the maturation of key signalling components, thereby playing a crucial role in tumorigenesis and drug resistance in cancer. Inhibition of HSP90 results in metastable conformational collapse of its client proteins and their proteasomal degradation. Considerable efforts have been devoted to the development of small-molecule inhibitors targeting HSP90, and more than 20 inhibitors have been evaluated in clinical trials for cancer therapy. However, owing to disadvantages such as organ toxicity and drug resistance, only one HSP90 inhibitor has been approved for use in clinical settings. In recent years, HSP90 inhibitors used in combination with other anti-cancer therapies have shown remarkable potential in the treatment of cancer. HSP90 inhibitors work synergistically with various anti-cancer therapies, including chemotherapy, targeted therapy, radiation therapy and immunotherapy. HSP90 inhibitors can improve the pharmacological effects of the above-mentioned therapies and reduce treatment resistance. This review provides an overview of the use of combination therapy with HSP90 inhibitors and other anti-cancer therapies in clinical and preclinical studies reported in the past decade and summarises design strategies and prospects for these combination therapies. Altogether, this review provides a theoretical basis for further research and application of these combination therapies in the treatment of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yajun Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Wenhua Road 103, Shenyang, 110016, China.
| | - Chenyao Li
- School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Dalian University of Technology, Dagong Road 2, Panjin, 124221, China
| | - Hongwei Liu
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shenyang, 110042, China.
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology, Shenyang, 110042, China.
| | - Shutao Tan
- Department of Urology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Sanhao Street 36, Shenyang, 110004, China.
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Pícková M, Kahounová Z, Radaszkiewicz T, Procházková J, Fedr R, Nosková M, Radaszkiewicz KA, Ovesná P, Bryja V, Souček K. Orthotopic model for the analysis of melanoma circulating tumor cells. Sci Rep 2024; 14:7827. [PMID: 38570556 PMCID: PMC10991390 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-58236-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Metastatic melanoma, a highly lethal form of skin cancer, presents significant clinical challenges due to limited therapeutic options and high metastatic capacity. Recent studies have demonstrated that cancer dissemination can occur earlier, before the diagnosis of the primary tumor. The progress in understanding the kinetics of cancer dissemination is limited by the lack of animal models that accurately mimic disease progression. We have established a xenograft model of human melanoma that spontaneously metastasizes to lymph nodes and lungs. This model allows precise monitoring of melanoma progression and is suitable for the quantitative and qualitative analysis of circulating tumor cells (CTCs). We have validated a flow cytometry-based protocol for CTCs enumeration and isolation. We could demonstrate that (i) CTCs were detectable in the bloodstream from the fourth week after tumor initiation, coinciding with the lymph node metastases appearance, (ii) excision of the primary tumor accelerated the formation of metastases in lymph nodes and lungs as early as one-week post-surgery, accompanied by the increased numbers of CTCs, and (iii) CTCs change their surface protein signature. In summary, we present a model of human melanoma that can be effectively utilized for future drug efficacy studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markéta Pícková
- Department of Cytokinetics, Institute of Biophysics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic
- International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital Brno, Brno, Czech Republic
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Zuzana Kahounová
- Department of Cytokinetics, Institute of Biophysics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Tomasz Radaszkiewicz
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jiřina Procházková
- Department of Cytokinetics, Institute of Biophysics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Radek Fedr
- Department of Cytokinetics, Institute of Biophysics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic
- International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital Brno, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Michaela Nosková
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Edinburgh Institute for Regeneration and Repair, Edinburgh, Scotland
| | | | - Petra Ovesná
- Institute of Biostatistics and Analyses, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Vítězslav Bryja
- Department of Cytokinetics, Institute of Biophysics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Karel Souček
- Department of Cytokinetics, Institute of Biophysics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic.
- International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital Brno, Brno, Czech Republic.
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic.
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Kharouf N, Flanagan TW, Alamodi AA, Al Hmada Y, Hassan SY, Shalaby H, Santourlidis S, Hassan SL, Haikel Y, Megahed M, Brodell RT, Hassan M. CD133-Dependent Activation of Phosphoinositide 3-Kinase /AKT/Mammalian Target of Rapamycin Signaling in Melanoma Progression and Drug Resistance. Cells 2024; 13:240. [PMID: 38334632 PMCID: PMC10854812 DOI: 10.3390/cells13030240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Melanoma frequently harbors genetic alterations in key molecules leading to the aberrant activation of PI3K and its downstream pathways. Although the role of PI3K/AKT/mTOR in melanoma progression and drug resistance is well documented, targeting the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway showed less efficiency in clinical trials than might have been expected, since the suppression of the PI3K/mTOR signaling pathway-induced feedback loops is mostly associated with the activation of compensatory pathways such as MAPK/MEK/ERK. Consequently, the development of intrinsic and acquired resistance can occur. As a solid tumor, melanoma is notorious for its heterogeneity. This can be expressed in the form of genetically divergent subpopulations including a small fraction of cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) and non-cancer stem cells (non-CSCs) that make the most of the tumor mass. Like other CSCs, melanoma stem-like cells (MSCs) are characterized by their unique cell surface proteins/stemness markers and aberrant signaling pathways. In addition to its function as a robust marker for stemness properties, CD133 is crucial for the maintenance of stemness properties and drug resistance. Herein, the role of CD133-dependent activation of PI3K/mTOR in the regulation of melanoma progression, drug resistance, and recurrence is reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naji Kharouf
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, University of Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France; (N.K.); (Y.H.)
- Department of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics, Dental Faculty, University of Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Thomas W. Flanagan
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, LSU Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA;
| | | | - Youssef Al Hmada
- Department of Pathology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216, USA; (Y.A.H.); (R.T.B.)
| | - Sofie-Yasmin Hassan
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science, Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, 40225 Dusseldorf, Germany;
| | - Hosam Shalaby
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA;
| | - Simeon Santourlidis
- Epigenetics Core Laboratory, Institute of Transplantation Diagnostics and Cell Therapeutics, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany;
| | - Sarah-Lilly Hassan
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, 40225 Dusseldorf, Germany;
| | - Youssef Haikel
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, University of Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France; (N.K.); (Y.H.)
- Department of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics, Dental Faculty, University of Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Pôle de Médecine et Chirurgie Bucco-Dentaire, Hôpital Civil, Hôpitaux Universitaire de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Mossad Megahed
- Clinic of Dermatology, University Hospital of Aachen, 52074 Aachen, Germany;
| | - Robert T. Brodell
- Department of Pathology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216, USA; (Y.A.H.); (R.T.B.)
| | - Mohamed Hassan
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, University of Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France; (N.K.); (Y.H.)
- Department of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics, Dental Faculty, University of Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Research Laboratory of Surgery-Oncology, Department of Surgery, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
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6
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Al Hmada Y, Brodell RT, Kharouf N, Flanagan TW, Alamodi AA, Hassan SY, Shalaby H, Hassan SL, Haikel Y, Megahed M, Santourlidis S, Hassan M. Mechanisms of Melanoma Progression and Treatment Resistance: Role of Cancer Stem-like Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:470. [PMID: 38275910 PMCID: PMC10814963 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16020470] [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: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is the third most common type of skin cancer, characterized by its heterogeneity and propensity to metastasize to distant organs. Melanoma is a heterogeneous tumor, composed of genetically divergent subpopulations, including a small fraction of melanoma-initiating cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) and many non-cancer stem cells (non-CSCs). CSCs are characterized by their unique surface proteins associated with aberrant signaling pathways with a causal or consequential relationship with tumor progression, drug resistance, and recurrence. Melanomas also harbor significant alterations in functional genes (BRAF, CDKN2A, NRAS, TP53, and NF1). Of these, the most common are the BRAF and NRAS oncogenes, with 50% of melanomas demonstrating the BRAF mutation (BRAFV600E). While the successful targeting of BRAFV600E does improve overall survival, the long-term efficacy of available therapeutic options is limited due to adverse side effects and reduced clinical efficacy. Additionally, drug resistance develops rapidly via mechanisms involving fast feedback re-activation of MAPK signaling pathways. This article updates information relevant to the mechanisms of melanoma progression and resistance and particularly the mechanistic role of CSCs in melanoma progression, drug resistance, and recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youssef Al Hmada
- Department of Pathology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS 39216, USA; (Y.A.H.); (R.T.B.)
| | - Robert T. Brodell
- Department of Pathology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS 39216, USA; (Y.A.H.); (R.T.B.)
| | - Naji Kharouf
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, University of Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France; (N.K.); (Y.H.)
- Department of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics, Dental Faculty, University of Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Thomas W. Flanagan
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, LSU Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA;
| | - Abdulhadi A. Alamodi
- College of Health Sciences, Jackson State University, 310 W Woodrow Wilson Ave Ste 300, Jackson, MS 39213, USA;
| | - Sofie-Yasmin Hassan
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science, Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, 40225 Dusseldorf, Germany;
| | - Hosam Shalaby
- Department of Urology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA;
| | - Sarah-Lilly Hassan
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, 40225 Dusseldorf, Germany;
| | - Youssef Haikel
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, University of Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France; (N.K.); (Y.H.)
- Department of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics, Dental Faculty, University of Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Pôle de Médecine et Chirurgie Bucco-Dentaire, Hôpital Civil, Hôpitaux Universitaire de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Mosaad Megahed
- Clinic of Dermatology, University Hospital of Aachen, 52074 Aachen, Germany;
| | - Simeon Santourlidis
- Epigenetics Core Laboratory, Medical Faculty, Institute of Transplantation Diagnostics and Cell Therapeutics, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, 40225 Dusseldorf, Germany;
| | - Mohamed Hassan
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, University of Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France; (N.K.); (Y.H.)
- Department of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics, Dental Faculty, University of Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Research Laboratory of Surgery-Oncology, Department of Surgery, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
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Kozyra P, Pitucha M. Revisiting the Role of B-RAF Kinase as a Therapeutic Target in Melanoma. Curr Med Chem 2024; 31:2003-2020. [PMID: 37855341 DOI: 10.2174/0109298673258495231011065225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
Malignant melanoma is the rarest but most aggressive and deadly skin cancer. Melanoma is the result of a malignant transformation of melanocytes, which leads to their uncontrolled proliferation. Mutations in the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, which are crucial for the control of cellular processes, such as apoptosis, division, growth, differentiation, and migration, are one of its most common causes. BRAF kinase, as one of the known targets of this pathway, has been known for many years as a prominent molecular target in melanoma therapy, and the following mini-review outlines the state-of-the-art knowledge regarding its structure, mutations and mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paweł Kozyra
- Independent Radiopharmacy Unit, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, PL, 20093, Poland
| | - Monika Pitucha
- Independent Radiopharmacy Unit, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, PL-20093, Poland
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8
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Priantti JN, Vilbert M, Madeira T, Moraes FCA, Hein ECK, Saeed A, Cavalcante L. Efficacy and Safety of Rechallenge with BRAF/MEK Inhibitors in Advanced Melanoma Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3754. [PMID: 37568570 PMCID: PMC10417341 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15153754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of rechallenging advanced melanoma patients with BRAFi/MEKi. Seven studies, accounting for 400 patients, were included. Most patients received immunotherapy before the rechallenge, and 79% underwent rechallenge with the combination of BRAFi/MEKi. We found a median progression-free survival of 5 months and overall survival of 9.8 months. The one-year survival rate was 42.63%. Regarding response, ORR was 34% and DCR 65%. There were no new or unexpected safety concerns. Rechallenge with BRAFi/MEKi can improve outcomes in advanced melanoma patients with refractory disease. These findings have significant implications for clinical practice, particularly in the setting of progressive disease in later lines and limited treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan N Priantti
- School of Medicine, Federal University of Amazonas-UFAM, Manaus 69020-160, AM, Brazil
| | - Maysa Vilbert
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 2M9, Canada
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Thiago Madeira
- School of Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais-UFMG, Belo Horizonte 30130-100, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Erica C Koch Hein
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 2M9, Canada
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile
| | - Anwaar Saeed
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Ludimila Cavalcante
- Department of Medical Oncology, Novant Health Cancer Institute, Charlotte, NC 28204, USA
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9
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Żołek T, Mazurek A, Grudzinski IP. In Silico Studies of Novel Vemurafenib Derivatives as BRAF Kinase Inhibitors. Molecules 2023; 28:5273. [PMID: 37446932 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28135273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BRAF inhibitors have improved the treatment of advanced or metastatic melanoma in patients that harbor a BRAFT1799A mutation. Because of new insights into the role of aberrant glycosylation in drug resistance, we designed and studied three novel vemurafenib derivatives possessing pentose-associated aliphatic ligands-methyl-, ethyl-, and isopropyl-ketopentose moieties-as potent BRAFV600E kinase inhibitors. The geometries of these derivatives were optimized using the density functional theory method. Molecular dynamic simulations were performed to find interactions between the ligands and BRAFV600E kinase. Virtual screening was performed to assess the fate of derivatives and their systemic toxicity, genotoxicity, and carcinogenicity. The computational mapping of the studied ligand-BRAFV600E complexes indicated that the central pyrrole and pyridine rings of derivatives were located within the hydrophobic ATP-binding site of the BRAFV600E protein kinase, while the pentose ring and alkyl chains were mainly included in hydrogen bonding interactions. The isopropyl-ketopentose derivative was found to bind the BRAFV600E oncoprotein with more favorable energy interaction than vemurafenib. ADME-TOX in silico studies showed that the derivatives possessed some desirable pharmacokinetic and toxicologic properties. The present results open a new avenue to study the carbohydrate derivatives of vemurafenib as potent BRAFV600E kinase inhibitors to treat melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Żołek
- Department of Organic and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1, 02 097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Adam Mazurek
- Department of Toxicology and Food Science, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1, 02 097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ireneusz P Grudzinski
- Department of Toxicology and Food Science, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1, 02 097 Warsaw, Poland
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Kosmidis CS, Papadopoulou K, Mystakidou CM, Papadopoulou E, Mantalovas S, Varsamis N, Koulouris C, Theodorou V, Papadopoulos K, Sevva C, Miltiadous P, Petanidis S, Georgakoudi E, Papadopoulou E, Baka S. Melanoma: BRAFi Rechallenge. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:medicina59050975. [PMID: 37241207 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59050975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Melanoma is the most aggressive type of skin cancer. Half of melanoma cases are characterized by the mutation BRAF V600. The case presented concerns a 41-year-old patient with locally advanced melanoma, being positive in mutation BRAF V600. The patient underwent surgery and received additional targeted therapy as part of a clinical study. In subsequent disease progression, immunotherapy was used. When the disease progressed again while the patient was in a good performance status, targeted therapy was administered again, and a good response was noted, making the patient reach a statistically significant overall survival, exceeding four years. Targeted therapy has proven to be an important tool in the treatment of melanoma. The use of BRAFi targeted therapy does not exclude the option of readministration at subsequent disease progression (BRAFi rechallenge). Preclinical models suggest that the resistance mechanism of cancer cells to BRAFi therapy bends, as these cell clones lose their evolutionary advantage after stopping BRAFi. Cell clones sensitive to BRAFi may then outcompete, making the treatment effective again. Therapeutical dilemmas in the management of patients with locally advanced melanoma that progresses to metastatic cancer are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoforos S Kosmidis
- European Interbalkan Medical Center, 10 Asklipiou Street, 55535 Pylaia, Greece
- 3rd Surgical Department, "AHEPA" University Hospital of Thessaloniki, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 1st St. Kiriakidi Street, 54621 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Konstantina Papadopoulou
- 1st Department of Internal Medicine, G. Papanikolaou General Hospital of Thessaloniki, 57010 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Chrysi Maria Mystakidou
- Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Evanthia Papadopoulou
- Shakolas Educational Centre for Clinical Medicine, University of Cyprus, Old Road Nicosia-Lemesos 215/6, 2029 Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Stylianos Mantalovas
- 3rd Surgical Department, "AHEPA" University Hospital of Thessaloniki, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 1st St. Kiriakidi Street, 54621 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Varsamis
- European Interbalkan Medical Center, 10 Asklipiou Street, 55535 Pylaia, Greece
| | - Charilaos Koulouris
- European Interbalkan Medical Center, 10 Asklipiou Street, 55535 Pylaia, Greece
- 3rd Surgical Department, "AHEPA" University Hospital of Thessaloniki, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 1st St. Kiriakidi Street, 54621 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Theodorou
- Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Papadopoulos
- 3rd Surgical Department, "AHEPA" University Hospital of Thessaloniki, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 1st St. Kiriakidi Street, 54621 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Christina Sevva
- 3rd Surgical Department, "AHEPA" University Hospital of Thessaloniki, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 1st St. Kiriakidi Street, 54621 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Petrina Miltiadous
- Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Savvas Petanidis
- Laboratory of Medical Biology and Genetics, Department of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Eleni Georgakoudi
- European Interbalkan Medical Center, 10 Asklipiou Street, 55535 Pylaia, Greece
| | - Eleni Papadopoulou
- European Interbalkan Medical Center, 10 Asklipiou Street, 55535 Pylaia, Greece
| | - Sofia Baka
- European Interbalkan Medical Center, 10 Asklipiou Street, 55535 Pylaia, Greece
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11
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Andea AA. Molecular testing in melanoma for the surgical pathologist. Pathology 2023; 55:245-257. [PMID: 36653236 DOI: 10.1016/j.pathol.2022.12.343] [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: 12/10/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The diagnostic work-up of melanocytic tumours has undergone significant changes in the last years following the exponential growth of molecular assays. For the practising pathologist it is often difficult to sort through the multitude of different tests that are currently available for clinical use. The molecular tests used in melanocytic pathology can be broadly divided into four categories: (1) tests that predict response to systemic therapy in melanoma; (2) tests that predict prognosis in melanoma; (3) tests useful in determining the type or class of melanocytic tumour; and (4) tests useful in the differential diagnosis of naevus versus melanoma (primarily used as an aid in the diagnosis of histologically ambiguous melanocytic lesions). This review will present an updated synopsis of major molecular ancillary tests used in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleodor A Andea
- Departments of Pathology and Dermatology, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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12
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Obrador E, Salvador-Palmer R, López-Blanch R, Oriol-Caballo M, Moreno-Murciano P, Estrela JM. Survival Mechanisms of Metastatic Melanoma Cells: The Link between Glucocorticoids and the Nrf2-Dependent Antioxidant Defense System. Cells 2023; 12:cells12030418. [PMID: 36766760 PMCID: PMC9913432 DOI: 10.3390/cells12030418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Circulating glucocorticoids increase during stress. Chronic stress, characterized by a sustained increase in serum levels of cortisol, has been associated in different cases with an increased risk of cancer and a worse prognosis. Glucocorticoids can promote gluconeogenesis, mobilization of amino acids, fat breakdown, and impair the body's immune response. Therefore, conditions that may favor cancer growth and the acquisition of radio- and chemo-resistance. We found that glucocorticoid receptor knockdown diminishes the antioxidant protection of murine B16-F10 (highly metastatic) melanoma cells, thus leading to a drastic decrease in their survival during interaction with the vascular endothelium. The BRAFV600E mutation is the most commonly observed in melanoma patients. Recent studies revealed that VMF/PLX40-32 (vemurafenib, a selective inhibitor of mutant BRAFV600E) increases mitochondrial respiration and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in BRAFV600E human melanoma cell lines. Early-stage cancer cells lacking Nrf2 generate high ROS levels and exhibit a senescence-like growth arrest. Thus, it is likely that a glucocorticoid receptor antagonist (RU486) could increase the efficacy of BRAF-related therapy in BRAFV600E-mutated melanoma. In fact, during early progression of skin melanoma metastases, RU486 and VMF induced metastases regression. However, treatment at an advanced stage of growth found resistance to RU486 and VMF. This resistance was mechanistically linked to overexpression of proteins of the Bcl-2 family (Bcl-xL and Mcl-1 in different human models). Moreover, melanoma resistance was decreased if AKT and NF-κB signaling pathways were blocked. These findings highlight mechanisms by which metastatic melanoma cells adapt to survive and could help in the development of most effective therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Obrador
- Cell Pathophysiology Unit (UFC), Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Odontology, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Scientia BioTech S.L., 46002 Valencia, Spain
- Correspondence: (E.O.); (J.M.E.); Tel.: +34-963864646 (J.M.E.)
| | - Rosario Salvador-Palmer
- Cell Pathophysiology Unit (UFC), Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Odontology, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Rafael López-Blanch
- Cell Pathophysiology Unit (UFC), Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Odontology, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Scientia BioTech S.L., 46002 Valencia, Spain
| | - María Oriol-Caballo
- Cell Pathophysiology Unit (UFC), Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Odontology, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Scientia BioTech S.L., 46002 Valencia, Spain
| | | | - José M. Estrela
- Cell Pathophysiology Unit (UFC), Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Odontology, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Scientia BioTech S.L., 46002 Valencia, Spain
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Valencia, 46100 Burjassot, Spain
- Correspondence: (E.O.); (J.M.E.); Tel.: +34-963864646 (J.M.E.)
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13
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Adams R, Osborn G, Mukhia B, Laddach R, Willsmore Z, Chenoweth A, Geh JLC, MacKenzie Ross AD, Healy C, Barber L, Tsoka S, Sanz-Moreno V, Lacy KE, Karagiannis SN. Influencing tumor-associated macrophages in malignant melanoma with monoclonal antibodies. Oncoimmunology 2022; 11:2127284. [PMID: 36211808 PMCID: PMC9543025 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2022.2127284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The application of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) for the treatment of melanoma has significantly improved the clinical management of this malignancy over the last decade. Currently approved mAbs for melanoma enhance T cell effector immune responses by blocking immune checkpoint molecules PD-L1/PD-1 and CTLA-4. However, more than half of patients do not benefit from treatment. Targeting the prominent myeloid compartment within the tumor microenvironment, and in particular the ever-abundant tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), may be a promising strategy to complement existing therapies and enhance treatment success. TAMs are a highly diverse and plastic subset of cells whose pro-tumor properties can support melanoma growth, angiogenesis and invasion. Understanding of their diversity, plasticity and multifaceted roles in cancer forms the basis for new promising TAM-centered treatment strategies. There are multiple mechanisms by which macrophages can be targeted with antibodies in a therapeutic setting, including by depletion, inhibition of specific pro-tumor properties, differential polarization to pro-inflammatory states and enhancement of antitumor immune functions. Here, we discuss TAMs in melanoma, their interactions with checkpoint inhibitor antibodies and emerging mAbs targeting different aspects of TAM biology and their potential to be translated to the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Adams
- St. John’s Institute of Dermatology, School of Basic & Medical Biosciences, King’s College London, Guy’s Hospital, London, UK
| | - Gabriel Osborn
- St. John’s Institute of Dermatology, School of Basic & Medical Biosciences, King’s College London, Guy’s Hospital, London, UK
| | - Bipashna Mukhia
- St. John’s Institute of Dermatology, School of Basic & Medical Biosciences, King’s College London, Guy’s Hospital, London, UK
| | - Roman Laddach
- St. John’s Institute of Dermatology, School of Basic & Medical Biosciences, King’s College London, Guy’s Hospital, London, UK,Department of Informatics, Faculty of Natural, Mathematical & Engineering Sciences, King’s College London, Bush House, London, UK
| | - Zena Willsmore
- St. John’s Institute of Dermatology, School of Basic & Medical Biosciences, King’s College London, Guy’s Hospital, London, UK
| | - Alicia Chenoweth
- St. John’s Institute of Dermatology, School of Basic & Medical Biosciences, King’s College London, Guy’s Hospital, London, UK,Breast Cancer Now Research Unit, School of Cancer & Pharmaceutical Sciences, King’s College London, Innovation Hub, Guy’s Hospital, London, UK
| | - Jenny L C Geh
- St. John’s Institute of Dermatology, School of Basic & Medical Biosciences, King’s College London, Guy’s Hospital, London, UK,Department of Plastic Surgery at Guy’s, King’s, and St. Thomas’ Hospitals, London, UK
| | | | - Ciaran Healy
- Department of Plastic Surgery at Guy’s, King’s, and St. Thomas’ Hospitals, London, UK
| | - Linda Barber
- School of Cancer & Pharmaceutical Sciences, King’s College London, Guy’s Hospital, London, UK
| | - Sophia Tsoka
- Department of Informatics, Faculty of Natural, Mathematical & Engineering Sciences, King’s College London, Bush House, London, UK
| | | | - Katie E Lacy
- St. John’s Institute of Dermatology, School of Basic & Medical Biosciences, King’s College London, Guy’s Hospital, London, UK
| | - Sophia N Karagiannis
- St. John’s Institute of Dermatology, School of Basic & Medical Biosciences, King’s College London, Guy’s Hospital, London, UK,Breast Cancer Now Research Unit, School of Cancer & Pharmaceutical Sciences, King’s College London, Innovation Hub, Guy’s Hospital, London, UK,CONTACT Sophia N Karagiannis St. John’s Institute of Dermatology, School of Basic & Medical Biosciences, King’s College London, Guy’s Hospital, Tower Wing, 9th Floor, London, SE1 9RT, UK
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14
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Levati L, Bassi C, Mastroeni S, Lupini L, Antonini Cappellini GC, Bonmassar L, Alvino E, Caporali S, Lacal PM, Narducci MG, Molineris I, De Galitiis F, Negrini M, Russo G, D’Atri S. Circulating miR-1246 and miR-485-3p as Promising Biomarkers of Clinical Response and Outcome in Melanoma Patients Treated with Targeted Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14153706. [PMID: 35954369 PMCID: PMC9367338 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14153706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the significant improvements in advanced melanoma therapy, there is still a pressing need for biomarkers that can predict patient response and prognosis, and therefore support rational treatment decisions. Here, we investigated whether circulating miRNAs could be biomarkers of clinical outcomes in patients treated with targeted therapy. Using next-generation sequencing, we profiled plasma miRNAs at baseline and at progression in patients treated with BRAF inhibitors (BRAFi) or BRAFi + MEKi. Selected miRNAs associated with response to therapy were subjected to validation by real-time quantitative RT-PCR . Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC), Kaplan–Meier and univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were performed on the validated miR-1246 and miR-485-3p baseline levels. The median baseline levels of miR-1246 and miR-485-3p were significantly higher and lower, respectively, in the group of patients not responding to therapy (NRs) as compared with the group of responding patients (Rs). In Rs, a trend toward an increase in miR-1246 and a decrease in miR-485-3p was observed at progression. Baseline miR-1246 level and the miR-1246/miR-485-3p ratio showed a good ability to discriminate between Rs and NRs. Poorer PFS and OS were observed in patients with unfavorable levels of at least one miRNA. In multivariate analysis, a low level of miR-485-3p and a high miR-1246/miR-485-3p ratio remained independent negative prognostic factors for PFS, while a high miR-1246/miR-485-3p ratio was associated with an increased risk of mortality, although statistical significance was not reached. Evaluation of miR-1246 and miR-485-3p baseline plasma levels might help clinicians to identify melanoma patients most likely to be unresponsive to targeted therapy or at higher risk for short-term PFS and mortality, thus improving their management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauretta Levati
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, IDI-IRCCS, Via dei Monti di Creta 104, 00167 Rome, Italy; (L.L.); (L.B.); (S.C.); (P.M.L.); (M.G.N.); (G.R.)
| | - Cristian Bassi
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 70, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.B.); (L.L.); (M.N.)
- LTTA Center, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 70, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Simona Mastroeni
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, IDI-IRCCS, Via dei Monti di Creta 104, 00167 Rome, Italy;
| | - Laura Lupini
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 70, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.B.); (L.L.); (M.N.)
| | - Gian Carlo Antonini Cappellini
- Department of Oncology and Dermatological Oncology, IDI-IRCCS, Via dei Monti di Creta 104, 00167 Rome, Italy; (G.C.A.C.); (F.D.G.)
| | - Laura Bonmassar
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, IDI-IRCCS, Via dei Monti di Creta 104, 00167 Rome, Italy; (L.L.); (L.B.); (S.C.); (P.M.L.); (M.G.N.); (G.R.)
| | - Ester Alvino
- Institute of Translational Pharmacology, National Council of Research, Via Fosso del Cavaliere 100, 00133 Rome, Italy;
| | - Simona Caporali
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, IDI-IRCCS, Via dei Monti di Creta 104, 00167 Rome, Italy; (L.L.); (L.B.); (S.C.); (P.M.L.); (M.G.N.); (G.R.)
| | - Pedro Miguel Lacal
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, IDI-IRCCS, Via dei Monti di Creta 104, 00167 Rome, Italy; (L.L.); (L.B.); (S.C.); (P.M.L.); (M.G.N.); (G.R.)
| | - Maria Grazia Narducci
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, IDI-IRCCS, Via dei Monti di Creta 104, 00167 Rome, Italy; (L.L.); (L.B.); (S.C.); (P.M.L.); (M.G.N.); (G.R.)
| | - Ivan Molineris
- Department of Life Science and System Biology, University of Turin, Via Accademia Albertina 13, 10123 Turin, Italy;
| | - Federica De Galitiis
- Department of Oncology and Dermatological Oncology, IDI-IRCCS, Via dei Monti di Creta 104, 00167 Rome, Italy; (G.C.A.C.); (F.D.G.)
| | - Massimo Negrini
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 70, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.B.); (L.L.); (M.N.)
- LTTA Center, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 70, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giandomenico Russo
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, IDI-IRCCS, Via dei Monti di Creta 104, 00167 Rome, Italy; (L.L.); (L.B.); (S.C.); (P.M.L.); (M.G.N.); (G.R.)
| | - Stefania D’Atri
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, IDI-IRCCS, Via dei Monti di Creta 104, 00167 Rome, Italy; (L.L.); (L.B.); (S.C.); (P.M.L.); (M.G.N.); (G.R.)
- Correspondence:
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15
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Reddi KK, Guruvaiah P, Edwards YJK, Gupta R. Changes in the Transcriptome and Chromatin Landscape in BRAFi-Resistant Melanoma Cells. Front Oncol 2022; 12:937831. [PMID: 35785205 PMCID: PMC9247198 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.937831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Metastatic and drug-resistant melanoma are leading causes of skin cancer-associated death. Mitogen-associated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway inhibitors and immunotherapies have provided substantial benefits to patients with melanoma. However, long-term therapeutic efficacy has been limited due to emergence of treatment resistance. Despite the identification of several molecular mechanisms underlying the development of resistant phenotypes, significant progress has still not been made toward the effective treatment of drug-resistant melanoma. Therefore, the identification of new targets and mechanisms driving drug resistance in melanoma represents an unmet medical need. In this study, we performed unbiased RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) and assay for transposase-accessible chromatin with sequencing (ATAC-seq) to identify new targets and mechanisms that drive resistance to MAPK pathway inhibitors targeting BRAF and MAPK kinase (MEK) in BRAF-mutant melanoma cells. An integrative analysis of ATAC-seq combined with RNA-seq showed that global changes in chromatin accessibility affected the mRNA expression levels of several known and novel genes, which consequently modulated multiple oncogenic signaling pathways to promote resistance to MAPK pathway inhibitors in melanoma cells. Many of these genes were also associated with prognosis predictions in melanoma patients. This study resulted in the identification of new genes and signaling pathways that might be targeted to treat MEK or BRAF inhibitors resistant melanoma patients. The present study applied new and advanced approaches to identify unique changes in chromatin accessibility regions that modulate gene expression associated with pathways to promote the development of resistance to MAPK pathway inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiran Kumar Reddi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Praveen Guruvaiah
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Yvonne J. K. Edwards
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Romi Gupta
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
- O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
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16
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Melanoma Cellular Plasticity. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23126401. [PMID: 35742846 PMCID: PMC9223876 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23126401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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17
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Castro KADF, Prandini JA, Biazzotto JC, Tomé JPC, da Silva RS, Lourenço LMO. The Surprisingly Positive Effect of Zinc-Phthalocyanines With High Photodynamic Therapy Efficacy of Melanoma Cancer. Front Chem 2022; 10:825716. [PMID: 35360535 PMCID: PMC8964275 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2022.825716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Phthalocyanine (Pc) dyes are photoactive molecules that can absorb and emit light in the visible spectrum, especially in the red region of the spectrum, with great potential for biological scopes. For this target, it is important to guarantee a high Pc solubility, and the use of suitable pyridinium units on their structure can be a good strategy to use effective photosensitizers (PSs) for photodynamic therapy (PDT) against cancer cells. Zn(II) phthalocyanines (ZnPcs) conjugated with thiopyridinium units (1–3) were evaluated as PS drugs against B16F10 melanoma cells, and their photophysical, photochemical, and in vitro photobiological properties were determined. The photodynamic efficiency of the tetra- and octa-cationic ZnPcs 1–3 was studied and compared at 1, 2, 5, 10, and 20 µM. The different number of charge units, and the presence/absence of a-F atoms on the Pc structure, contributes for their PDT efficacy. The 3-(4′,5′-dimethylthiazol-2′-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assays on B16F10 melanoma cells show a moderate to high capacity to be photoinactivated by ZnPcs 1–3 (ZnPc 1 > ZnPc 2 > ZnPc 3). The best PDT conditions were found at a Pc concentration of 20 μM, under red light (λ = 660 ± 20 nm) at an irradiance of 4.5 mW/cm2 for 667 s (light dose of 3 J/cm2). In these conditions, it is noteworthy that the cationic ZnPc 1 shows a promising photoinactivation ratio, reaching the detection limit of the MTT method. Moreover, these results are comparable to the better ones in the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly A. D. F. Castro
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Juliana A. Prandini
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Juliana Cristina Biazzotto
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - João P. C. Tomé
- Centro de Química Estrutural, Institute of Molecular Sciences & Departamento de Engenharia Química, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Roberto S. da Silva
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
- *Correspondence: Roberto S. da Silva, ; Leandro M. O. Lourenço,
| | - Leandro M. O. Lourenço
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Chemistry Department, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
- *Correspondence: Roberto S. da Silva, ; Leandro M. O. Lourenço,
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18
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Andea AA. Molecular testing for melanocytic tumors: a practical update. Histopathology 2021; 80:150-165. [DOI: 10.1111/his.14570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Aleodor A Andea
- Departments of Pathology and Dermatology Michigan Medicine University of Michigan Ann Arbor MI USA
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19
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Pillai M, Jolly MK. Systems-level network modeling deciphers the master regulators of phenotypic plasticity and heterogeneity in melanoma. iScience 2021; 24:103111. [PMID: 34622164 PMCID: PMC8479788 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.103111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Phenotypic (i.e. non-genetic) heterogeneity in melanoma drives dedifferentiation, recalcitrance to targeted therapy and immunotherapy, and consequent tumor relapse and metastasis. Various markers or regulators associated with distinct phenotypes in melanoma have been identified, but, how does a network of interactions among these regulators give rise to multiple "attractor" states and phenotypic switching remains elusive. Here, we inferred a network of transcription factors (TFs) that act as master regulators for gene signatures of diverse cell-states in melanoma. Dynamical simulations of this network predicted how this network can settle into different "attractors" (TF expression patterns), suggesting that TF network dynamics drives the emergence of phenotypic heterogeneity. These simulations can recapitulate major phenotypes observed in melanoma and explain de-differentiation trajectory observed upon BRAF inhibition. Our systems-level modeling framework offers a platform to understand trajectories of phenotypic transitions in the landscape of a regulatory TF network and identify novel therapeutic strategies targeting melanoma plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maalavika Pillai
- Centre for BioSystems Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
- Undergraduate Programme, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
| | - Mohit Kumar Jolly
- Centre for BioSystems Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
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20
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McKenna S, García-Gutiérrez L. Resistance to Targeted Therapy and RASSF1A Loss in Melanoma: What Are We Missing? Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:5115. [PMID: 34066022 PMCID: PMC8150731 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22105115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is one of the most aggressive forms of skin cancer and is therapeutically challenging, considering its high mutation rate. Following the development of therapies to target BRAF, the most frequently found mutation in melanoma, promising therapeutic responses were observed. While mono- and combination therapies to target the MAPK cascade did induce a therapeutic response in BRAF-mutated melanomas, the development of resistance to MAPK-targeted therapies remains a challenge for a high proportion of patients. Resistance mechanisms are varied and can be categorised as intrinsic, acquired, and adaptive. RASSF1A is a tumour suppressor that plays an integral role in the maintenance of cellular homeostasis as a central signalling hub. RASSF1A tumour suppressor activity is commonly lost in melanoma, mainly by aberrant promoter hypermethylation. RASSF1A loss could be associated with several mechanisms of resistance to MAPK inhibition considering that most of the signalling pathways that RASSF1A controls are found to be altered targeted therapy resistant melanomas. Herein, we discuss resistance mechanisms in detail and the potential role for RASSF1A reactivation to re-sensitise BRAF mutant melanomas to therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lucía García-Gutiérrez
- Systems Biology Ireland, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland;
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