1
|
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.
Collapse
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;
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Dainese-Marque O, Garcia V, Andrieu-Abadie N, Riond J. Contribution of Keratinocytes in Skin Cancer Initiation and Progression. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:8813. [PMID: 39201498 PMCID: PMC11354502 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25168813] [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: 07/19/2024] [Revised: 08/10/2024] [Accepted: 08/11/2024] [Indexed: 09/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Keratinocytes are major cellular components of the skin and are strongly involved in its homeostasis. Oncogenic events, starting mainly from excessive sun exposure, lead to the dysregulation of their proliferation and differentiation programs and promote the initiation and progression of non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSCs). Primary melanomas, which originate from melanocytes, initiate and develop in close interaction with keratinocytes, whose role in melanoma initiation, progression, and immune escape is currently being explored. Recent studies highlighted, in particular, unexpected modes of communication between melanocytic cells and keratinocytes, which may be of interest as sources of new biomarkers in melanomagenesis or potential therapeutic targets. This review aims at reporting the various contributions of keratinocytes in skin basal cell carcinoma (BCC), cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC), and melanoma, with a greater focus on the latter in order to highlight some recent breakthrough findings. The readers are referred to recent reviews when contextual information is needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Nathalie Andrieu-Abadie
- Université de Toulouse, Inserm, CNRS, Université Toulouse III-Paul Sabatier, Centre de Recherches en Cancérologie de Toulouse, 31037 Toulouse, France
| | - Joëlle Riond
- Université de Toulouse, Inserm, CNRS, Université Toulouse III-Paul Sabatier, Centre de Recherches en Cancérologie de Toulouse, 31037 Toulouse, France
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Noma IHY, Carvalho LADC, Camarena DEM, Silva RO, Moraes Junior MOD, de Souza ST, Newton-Bishop J, Nsengimana J, Maria-Engler SS. Peroxiredoxin-2 represses NRAS-mutated melanoma cells invasion by modulating EMT markers. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 177:116953. [PMID: 38955087 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116953] [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: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The second most common mutation in melanoma occurs in NRAS oncogene, being a more aggressive disease that has no effective approved treatment. Besides, cellular plasticity limits better outcomes of the advanced and therapy-resistant patients. Peroxiredoxins (PRDXs) control cellular processes through direct hydrogen peroxide oxidation or by redox-relaying processes. Here, we demonstrated that PRDX2 could act as a modulator of multiple EMT markers in NRAS-mutated melanomas. PRDX2 knockdown lead to phenotypic changes towards invasion in human reconstructed skin and the treatment with a PRDX mimetic (gliotoxin), decreased migration in PRDX2-deficient cells. We also confirmed the favorable clinical outcome of patients expressing PRDX2 in a large primary melanoma cohort. This study contributes to our knowledge about genes involved in phenotype switching and opens a new perspective for PRDX2 as a biomarker and target in NRAS-mutated melanomas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Harumi Yonehara Noma
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Avenida Professor Lineu Prestes, 580, São Paulo, SP 05508-00, Brazil
| | - Larissa Anastacio da Costa Carvalho
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Avenida Professor Lineu Prestes, 580, São Paulo, SP 05508-00, Brazil
| | - Denisse Esther Mallaupoma Camarena
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Avenida Professor Lineu Prestes, 580, São Paulo, SP 05508-00, Brazil
| | - Renaira Oliveira Silva
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Avenida Professor Lineu Prestes, 580, São Paulo, SP 05508-00, Brazil
| | - Manoel Oliveira de Moraes Junior
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Avenida Professor Lineu Prestes, 580, São Paulo, SP 05508-00, Brazil
| | - Sophia Tavares de Souza
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Avenida Professor Lineu Prestes, 580, São Paulo, SP 05508-00, Brazil
| | - Julia Newton-Bishop
- Leeds Institute of Medical Research, School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds LS9 7TF, UK
| | - Jérémie Nsengimana
- Biostatistics Research Group, Population Health Sciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4BN, UK
| | - Silvya Stuchi Maria-Engler
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Avenida Professor Lineu Prestes, 580, São Paulo, SP 05508-00, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Love NR, Williams C, Killingbeck EE, Merleev A, Saffari Doost M, Yu L, McPherson JD, Mori H, Borowsky AD, Maverakis E, Kiuru M. Melanoma progression and prognostic models drawn from single-cell, spatial maps of benign and malignant tumors. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadm8206. [PMID: 38996022 PMCID: PMC11244543 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adm8206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024]
Abstract
Melanoma clinical outcomes emerge from incompletely understood genetic mechanisms operating within the tumor and its microenvironment. Here, we used single-cell RNA-based spatial molecular imaging (RNA-SMI) in patient-derived archival tumors to reveal clinically relevant markers of malignancy progression and prognosis. We examined spatial gene expression of 203,472 cells inside benign and malignant melanocytic neoplasms, including melanocytic nevi and primary invasive and metastatic melanomas. Algorithmic cell clustering paired with intratumoral comparative two-dimensional analyses visualized synergistic, spatial gene signatures linking cellular proliferation, metabolism, and malignancy, validated by protein expression. Metastatic niches included up-regulation of CDK2 and FABP5, which independently predicted poor clinical outcome in 473 patients with melanoma via Cox regression analysis. More generally, our work demonstrates a framework for applying single-cell RNA-SMI technology toward identifying gene regulatory landscapes pertinent to cancer progression and patient survival.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nick R Love
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA 95816, USA
| | - Claire Williams
- NanoString Technologies, a Bruker Company, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | | | - Alexander Merleev
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA 95816, USA
| | | | - Lan Yu
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA 95816, USA
| | - John D McPherson
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA 95816, USA
| | - Hidetoshi Mori
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA 95816, USA
| | - Alexander D Borowsky
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA 95816, USA
| | - Emanual Maverakis
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA 95816, USA
| | - Maija Kiuru
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA 95816, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA 95816, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Schröder V, Gherghel D, Apetroaei MR, Gîjiu CL, Isopescu R, Dinculescu D, Apetroaei MM, Enache LE, Mihai CT, Rău I, Vochița G. α-Chitosan and β-Oligochitosan Mixtures-Based Formula for In Vitro Assessment of Melanocyte Cells Response. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6768. [PMID: 38928474 PMCID: PMC11204147 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126768] [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: 05/16/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Chitosan is a natural polymer with numerous biomedical applications. The cellular activity of chitosan has been studied in various types of cancer, including melanoma, and indicates that these molecules can open new perspectives on antiproliferative action and anticancer therapy. This study analyzes how different chitosan conformations, such as α-chitosan (CH) or β-oligochitosan (CO), with various degrees of deacetylation (DDA) and molar mass (MM), both in different concentrations and in CH-CO mixtures, influence the cellular processes of SK-MEL-28 melanocytes, to estimate the reactivity of these cells to the applied treatments. The in vitro evaluation was carried out, aiming at the cellular metabolism (MTT assay), cellular morphology, and chitinase-like glycoprotein YKL-40 expression. The in vitro effect of the CH-CO mixture application on melanocytes is obvious at low concentrations of α-chitosan/β-oligochitosan (1:2 ratio), with the cell's response supporting the hypothesis that β-oligo-chitosan amplifies the effect. This oligochitosan mixture, favored by the β conformation and its small size, penetrates faster into the cells, being more reactive when interacting with some cellular components. Morphological effects expressed by the loss of cell adhesion and the depletion of YKL-40 synthesis are significant responses of melanocytes. β-oligochitosan (1.5 kDa) induces an extension of cytophysiological effects and limits the cell viability compared to α-chitosan (400-900 kDa). Statistical analysis using multivariate techniques showed differences between the CH samples and CH-CO mixtures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Verginica Schröder
- Departament of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ovidius University of Constanta, 6 Capt. Aviator Al. Șerbănescu Street, Campus C, 900470 Constanta, Romania;
| | - Daniela Gherghel
- Institute of Biological Research Iasi, Branch of NIRDBS—National Institute of Research and Development of Biological Sciences Bucharest, 47 Lascar Catargi, 700107 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Manuela Rossemary Apetroaei
- Department of Marine Electric and Electronic Engineering, Faculty of Marine Engineering, Mircea cel Batran Naval Academy, 1 Fulgerului Street, 900218 Constanta, Romania;
| | - Cristiana Luminița Gîjiu
- Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnologies, National University of Science and Technology POLITEHNICA Bucharest, 011061 Bucharest, Romania; (C.L.G.); (R.I.); (L.E.E.); (I.R.)
| | - Raluca Isopescu
- Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnologies, National University of Science and Technology POLITEHNICA Bucharest, 011061 Bucharest, Romania; (C.L.G.); (R.I.); (L.E.E.); (I.R.)
| | - Daniel Dinculescu
- Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnologies, National University of Science and Technology POLITEHNICA Bucharest, 011061 Bucharest, Romania; (C.L.G.); (R.I.); (L.E.E.); (I.R.)
| | - Miruna-Maria Apetroaei
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 6 Traian Vuia Street, 020956 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Laura Elena Enache
- Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnologies, National University of Science and Technology POLITEHNICA Bucharest, 011061 Bucharest, Romania; (C.L.G.); (R.I.); (L.E.E.); (I.R.)
| | | | - Ileana Rău
- Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnologies, National University of Science and Technology POLITEHNICA Bucharest, 011061 Bucharest, Romania; (C.L.G.); (R.I.); (L.E.E.); (I.R.)
| | - Gabriela Vochița
- Institute of Biological Research Iasi, Branch of NIRDBS—National Institute of Research and Development of Biological Sciences Bucharest, 47 Lascar Catargi, 700107 Iasi, Romania;
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Perlee S, Ma Y, Hunter MV, Swanson JB, Ming Z, Xia J, Lionnet T, McGrail M, White RM. Identifying in vivo genetic dependencies of melanocyte and melanoma development. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.22.586101. [PMID: 38562693 PMCID: PMC10983904 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.22.586101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
The advent of large-scale sequencing in both development and disease has identified large numbers of candidate genes that may be linked to important phenotypes. Validating the function of these candidates in vivo is challenging, due to low efficiency and low throughput of most model systems. We have developed a rapid, scalable system for assessing the role of candidate genes using zebrafish. We generated transgenic zebrafish in which Cas9 was knocked-in to the endogenous mitfa locus, a master transcription factor of the melanocyte lineage. We used this system to identify both cell-autonomous and non-cell autonomous regulators of normal melanocyte development. We then applied this to the melanoma setting to demonstrate that loss of genes required for melanocyte survival can paradoxically promote more aggressive phenotypes, highlighting that in vitro screens can mask in vivo phenotypes. Our high-efficiency genetic approach offers a versatile tool for exploring developmental processes and disease mechanisms that can readily be applied to other cell lineages.
Collapse
|
7
|
Németh A, Bányai GL, Dobos NK, Kós T, Gaál A, Varga Z, Buzás EI, Khamari D, Dank M, Takács I, Szász AM, Garay T. Extracellular vesicles promote migration despite BRAF inhibitor treatment in malignant melanoma cells. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:282. [PMID: 38778340 PMCID: PMC11110207 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01660-4] [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: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) constitute a vital component of intercellular communication, exerting significant influence on metastasis formation and drug resistance mechanisms. Malignant melanoma (MM) is one of the deadliest forms of skin cancers, because of its high metastatic potential and often acquired resistance to oncotherapies. The prevalence of BRAF mutations in MM underscores the importance of BRAF-targeted therapies, such as vemurafenib and dabrafenib, alone or in combination with the MEK inhibitor, trametinib. This study aimed to elucidate the involvement of EVs in MM progression and ascertain whether EV-mediated metastasis promotion persists during single agent BRAF (vemurafenib, dabrafenib), or MEK (trametinib) and combined BRAF/MEK (dabrafenib/trametinib) inhibition.Using five pairs of syngeneic melanoma cell lines, we assessed the impact of EVs - isolated from their respective supernatants - on melanoma cell proliferation and migration. Cell viability and spheroid growth assays were employed to evaluate proliferation, while migration was analyzed through mean squared displacement (MSD) and total traveled distance (TTD) measurements derived from video microscopy and single-cell tracking.Our results indicate that while EV treatments had remarkable promoting effect on cell migration, they exerted only a modest effect on cell proliferation and spheroid growth. Notably, EVs demonstrated the ability to mitigate the inhibitory effects of BRAF inhibitors, albeit they were ineffective against a MEK inhibitor and the combination of BRAF/MEK inhibitors. In summary, our findings contribute to the understanding of the intricate role played by EVs in tumor progression, metastasis, and drug resistance in MM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Afrodité Németh
- Faculty of Information Technology and Bionics, Pázmány Péter Catholic University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gréta L Bányai
- Faculty of Information Technology and Bionics, Pázmány Péter Catholic University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Nikolett K Dobos
- Faculty of Information Technology and Bionics, Pázmány Péter Catholic University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Tamás Kós
- Faculty of Information Technology and Bionics, Pázmány Péter Catholic University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Anikó Gaál
- Institute of Materials and Environmental Chemistry; Biological Nanochemistry Research Group, HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zoltán Varga
- Institute of Materials and Environmental Chemistry; Biological Nanochemistry Research Group, HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Edit I Buzás
- Department of Genetics, Cell- and Immunobiology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- ELKH-SE Translational Extracellular Vesicle Research Group, Budapest, Hungary
- HCEMM-SE Extracellular Vesicle Research Group, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Delaram Khamari
- Department of Genetics, Cell- and Immunobiology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Magdolna Dank
- Department of Internal Medicine and Oncology, Division of Oncology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - István Takács
- Department of Internal Medicine and Oncology, Division of Oncology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - A Marcell Szász
- Department of Internal Medicine and Oncology, Division of Oncology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Tamás Garay
- Faculty of Information Technology and Bionics, Pázmány Péter Catholic University, Budapest, Hungary.
- Department of Internal Medicine and Oncology, Division of Oncology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Kim HJ, Kim YH. Molecular Frontiers in Melanoma: Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Therapeutic Advances. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2984. [PMID: 38474231 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052984] [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: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Melanoma, a highly aggressive skin cancer, is characterized by rapid progression and high mortality. Recent advances in molecular pathogenesis have shed light on genetic and epigenetic changes that drive melanoma development. This review provides an overview of these developments, focusing on molecular mechanisms in melanoma genesis. It highlights how mutations, particularly in the BRAF, NRAS, c-KIT, and GNAQ/GNA11 genes, affect critical signaling pathways. The evolution of diagnostic techniques, such as genomics, transcriptomics, liquid biopsies, and molecular biomarkers for early detection and prognosis, is also discussed. The therapeutic landscape has transformed with targeted therapies and immunotherapies, improving patient outcomes. This paper examines the efficacy, challenges, and prospects of these treatments, including recent clinical trials and emerging strategies. The potential of novel treatment strategies, including neoantigen vaccines, adoptive cell transfer, microbiome interactions, and nanoparticle-based combination therapy, is explored. These advances emphasize the challenges of therapy resistance and the importance of personalized medicine. This review underlines the necessity for evidence-based therapy selection in managing the increasing global incidence of melanoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Jee Kim
- Department of Dermatology, International St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, Catholic Kwandong University, Incheon 22711, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeong Ho Kim
- Department of Dermatology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Marrapodi R, Bellei B. The Keratinocyte in the Picture Cutaneous Melanoma Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:913. [PMID: 38473275 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16050913] [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: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Melanoma progression is a multistep evolution from a common melanocytic nevus through a radial superficial growth phase, the invasive vertical growth phase finally leading to metastatic dissemination into distant organs. Melanoma aggressiveness largely depends on the propensity to metastasize, which means the capacity to escape from the physiological microenvironment since tissue damage due to primary melanoma lesions is generally modest. Physiologically, epidermal melanocytes are attached to the basement membrane, and their adhesion/migration is under the control of surrounding keratinocytes. Thus, the epidermal compartment represents the first microenvironment responsible for melanoma spread. This complex process involves cell-cell contact and a broad range of secreted bioactive molecules. Invasion, or at the beginning of the microinvasion, implies the breakdown of the dermo-epidermal basement membrane followed by the migration of neoplastic melanocytic cells in the superficial papillary dermis. Correspondingly, several experimental evidences documented the structural and functional rearrangement of the entire tissue surrounding neoplasm that in some way reflects the atypia of tumor cells. Lastly, the microenvironment must support the proliferation and survival of melanocytes outside the normal epidermal-melanin units. This task presumably is mostly delegated to fibroblasts and ultimately to the self-autonomous capacity of melanoma cells. This review will discuss remodeling that occurs in the epidermis during melanoma formation as well as skin changes that occur independently of melanocytic hyperproliferation having possible pro-tumoral features.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ramona Marrapodi
- Laboratory of Cutaneous Physiopathology and Integrated Center of Metabolomics Research, San Gallicano Dermatological Institute, IRCCS, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144 Rome, Italy
| | - Barbara Bellei
- Laboratory of Cutaneous Physiopathology and Integrated Center of Metabolomics Research, San Gallicano Dermatological Institute, IRCCS, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144 Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Falsini A, Giuntini G, Mori M, Ghirga F, Quaglio D, Cucinotta A, Coppola F, Filippi I, Naldini A, Botta B, Carraro F. Hedgehog Pathway Inhibition by Novel Small Molecules Impairs Melanoma Cell Migration and Invasion under Hypoxia. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:227. [PMID: 38399442 PMCID: PMC10891729 DOI: 10.3390/ph17020227] [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: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is the principal cause of death in skin cancer due to its ability to invade and cause metastasis. Hypoxia, which characterises the tumour microenvironment (TME), plays an important role in melanoma development, as cancer cells can adapt and acquire a more aggressive phenotype. Carbonic anhydrases (CA) activity, involved in pH regulation, is related to melanoma cell migration and invasion. Furthermore, the Hedgehog (Hh) pathway, already known for its role in physiological processes, is a pivotal character in cancer cell growth and can represent a promising pharmacological target. In this study, we targeted Hh pathway components with cyclopamine, glabrescione B and C22 in order to observe their effect on carbonic anhydrase XII (CAXII) expression especially under hypoxia. We then performed a migration and invasion assay on two melanoma cell lines (SK-MEL-28 and A375) where Smoothened, the upstream protein involved in Hh regulation, and GLI1, the main transcription factor that determines Hh pathway activation, were chemically inhibited. Data suggest the existence of a relationship between CAXII, hypoxia and the Hedgehog pathway demonstrating that the chemical inhibition of the Hh pathway and CAXII reduction resulted in melanoma migration and invasion impairment especially under hypoxia. As in recent years drug resistance to small molecules has arisen, the development of new chemical compounds is crucial. The multitarget Hh inhibitor C22 proved to be effective without signs of cytotoxicity and, for this reason, it can represent a promising compound for future studies, with the aim to reach a better melanoma disease management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Falsini
- Cellular and Molecular Physiology Unit, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (A.F.); (G.G.); (F.C.); (I.F.); (A.N.)
| | - Gaia Giuntini
- Cellular and Molecular Physiology Unit, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (A.F.); (G.G.); (F.C.); (I.F.); (A.N.)
| | - Mattia Mori
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy;
| | - Francesca Ghirga
- Department of Chemistry and Technology of Drugs, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (F.G.); (D.Q.); (B.B.)
| | - Deborah Quaglio
- Department of Chemistry and Technology of Drugs, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (F.G.); (D.Q.); (B.B.)
| | - Antonino Cucinotta
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Federica Coppola
- Cellular and Molecular Physiology Unit, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (A.F.); (G.G.); (F.C.); (I.F.); (A.N.)
| | - Irene Filippi
- Cellular and Molecular Physiology Unit, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (A.F.); (G.G.); (F.C.); (I.F.); (A.N.)
| | - Antonella Naldini
- Cellular and Molecular Physiology Unit, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (A.F.); (G.G.); (F.C.); (I.F.); (A.N.)
| | - Bruno Botta
- Department of Chemistry and Technology of Drugs, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (F.G.); (D.Q.); (B.B.)
| | - Fabio Carraro
- Cellular and Molecular Physiology Unit, Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Pimenta J, Prada J, Pires I, Cotovio M. Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) Expression in Equine Melanocytic Tumors. Vet Sci 2024; 11:77. [PMID: 38393095 PMCID: PMC10891553 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci11020077] [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: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Equine melanocytic tumors are common and have an unusual benign behavior with low invasiveness and metastatic rates. However, tumoral mass growth is usually a concern that can have life-threatening consequences. COX-2 is related to oncogenesis, promoting neoplastic cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the immunohistochemical expression of COX-2 in equine melanocytic tumors. Through extension and intensity of labeling, 39 melanocytomas and 38 melanomas were evaluated. Of the malignant tumors, 13.2% were negative and 63.2% presented a low COX-2 expression. Only 6 malignant tumors presented >50% of labeled cells, 18 malignant and 8 benign had an expression between 21 and 50%, 8 malignant and 3 benign tumors had an expression between 6 and 20%, 1 malignant tumor had an expression between 1 and 5%, and 5 malignant and 28 benign tumors had no expression. Malignant tumors showed higher COX-2 expression than did benign tumors, with statistically significant differences. The low levels of COX-2 may be one of the molecular reasons for the presence of expansive mass growth instead of the invasive pattern of other species, which is related to high COX-2 levels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- José Pimenta
- CECAV—Veterinary and Animal Research Center, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal; (J.P.); (I.P.); (M.C.)
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- CIVG—Vasco da Gama Research Center, EUVG—Vasco da Gama University School, 3020-210 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Justina Prada
- CECAV—Veterinary and Animal Research Center, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal; (J.P.); (I.P.); (M.C.)
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Veterinary Sciences Department, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Isabel Pires
- CECAV—Veterinary and Animal Research Center, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal; (J.P.); (I.P.); (M.C.)
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Veterinary Sciences Department, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Mário Cotovio
- CECAV—Veterinary and Animal Research Center, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal; (J.P.); (I.P.); (M.C.)
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lusófona University, Campo Grande 376, 1749-024 Lisbon, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Harrer DC, Lüke F, Pukrop T, Ghibelli L, Gerner C, Reichle A, Heudobler D. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptorα/γ agonist pioglitazone for rescuing relapsed or refractory neoplasias by unlocking phenotypic plasticity. Front Oncol 2024; 13:1289222. [PMID: 38273846 PMCID: PMC10808445 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1289222] [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: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
A series of seven clinical trials on relapsed or refractory (r/r) metastatic neoplasias followed the question: Are networks of ligand-receptor cross-talks that support tumor-specific cancer hallmarks, druggable with tumor tissue editing approaches therapeutically exploiting tumor plasticity? Differential recombinations of pioglitazone, a dual peroxisome-proliferator activated receptorα/γ (PPARα/γ) agonist, with transcriptional modulators, i.e., all-trans retinoic acid, interferon-α, or dexamethasone plus metronomic low-dose chemotherapy (MCT) or epigenetic modeling with azacitidine plus/minus cyclooxygenase-2 inhibition initiated tumor-specific reprogramming of cancer hallmarks, as exemplified by inflammation control in r/r melanoma, renal clear cell carcinoma (RCCC), Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL) and multisystem Langerhans cell histiocytosis (mLCH) or differentiation induction in non-promyelocytic acute myeloid leukemia (non-PML AML). Pioglitazone, integrated in differentially designed editing schedules, facilitated induction of tumor cell death as indicated by complete remission (CR) in r/r non-PML AML, continuous CR in r/r RCCC, mLCH, and in HL by addition of everolimus, or long-term disease control in melanoma by efficaciously controlling metastasis, post-therapy cancer repopulation and acquired cell-resistance and genetic/molecular-genetic tumor cell heterogeneity (M-CRAC). PPARα/γ agonists provided tumor-type agnostic biomodulatory efficacy across different histologic neoplasias. Tissue editing techniques disclose that wide-ranging functions of PPARα/γ agonists may be on-topic focused for differentially unlocking tumor phenotypes. Low-dose MCT facilitates targeted reprogramming of cancer hallmarks with transcriptional modulators, induction of tumor cell death, M-CRAC control and editing of non-oncogene addiction. Thus, pioglitazone, integrated in tumor tissue editing protocols, is an important biomodulatory drug for addressing urgent therapeutic problems, such as M-CRAC in relapsed or refractory tumor disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Christoph Harrer
- Department of Internal Medicine III, Hematology and Oncology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Florian Lüke
- Department of Internal Medicine III, Hematology and Oncology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
- Division of Personalized Tumor Therapy, Fraunhofer Institute for Toxicology and Experimental Medicine, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Tobias Pukrop
- Department of Internal Medicine III, Hematology and Oncology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Lina Ghibelli
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Christopher Gerner
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Albrecht Reichle
- Department of Internal Medicine III, Hematology and Oncology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Daniel Heudobler
- Department of Internal Medicine III, Hematology and Oncology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Kuras M. Exploring the Complex and Multifaceted Interplay between Melanoma Cells and the Tumor Microenvironment. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14403. [PMID: 37762707 PMCID: PMC10531837 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241814403] [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: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Malignant melanoma is a very aggressive skin cancer, characterized by a heterogeneous nature and high metastatic potential. The incidence of melanoma is continuously increasing worldwide, and it is one of the most common cancers in young adults. In the past twenty years, our understanding of melanoma biology has increased profoundly, and disease management for patients with disseminated disease has improved due to the emergence of immunotherapy and targeted therapy. However, a significant fraction of patients relapse or do not respond adequately to treatment. This can partly be explained by the complex signaling between the tumor and its microenvironment, giving rise to melanoma phenotypes with different patterns of disease progression. This review focuses on the key aspects and complex relationship between pathogenesis, genetic abnormalities, tumor microenvironment, cellular plasticity, and metabolic reprogramming in melanoma. By acquiring a deeper understanding of the multifaceted features of melanomagenesis, we can reach a point of more individualized and patient-centered disease management and reduced costs of ineffective treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Kuras
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lund University, 221 00 Lund, Sweden;
- Section for Clinical Chemistry, Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, 205 02 Malmö, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Castellani G, Buccarelli M, Arasi MB, Rossi S, Pisanu ME, Bellenghi M, Lintas C, Tabolacci C. BRAF Mutations in Melanoma: Biological Aspects, Therapeutic Implications, and Circulating Biomarkers. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4026. [PMID: 37627054 PMCID: PMC10452867 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15164026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is an aggressive form of skin cancer resulting from the malignant transformation of melanocytes. Recent therapeutic approaches, including targeted therapy and immunotherapy, have improved the prognosis and outcome of melanoma patients. BRAF is one of the most frequently mutated oncogenes recognised in melanoma. The most frequent oncogenic BRAF mutations consist of a single point mutation at codon 600 (mostly V600E) that leads to constitutive activation of the BRAF/MEK/ERK (MAPK) signalling pathway. Therefore, mutated BRAF has become a useful target for molecular therapy and the use of BRAF kinase inhibitors has shown promising results. However, several resistance mechanisms invariably develop leading to therapeutic failure. The aim of this manuscript is to review the role of BRAF mutational status in the pathogenesis of melanoma and its impact on differentiation and inflammation. Moreover, this review focuses on the mechanisms responsible for resistance to targeted therapies in BRAF-mutated melanoma and provides an overview of circulating biomarkers including circulating tumour cells, circulating tumour DNA, and non-coding RNAs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Castellani
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (G.C.); (M.B.); (M.B.A.); (S.R.)
| | - Mariachiara Buccarelli
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (G.C.); (M.B.); (M.B.A.); (S.R.)
| | - Maria Beatrice Arasi
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (G.C.); (M.B.); (M.B.A.); (S.R.)
| | - Stefania Rossi
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (G.C.); (M.B.); (M.B.A.); (S.R.)
| | - Maria Elena Pisanu
- High Resolution NMR Unit, Core Facilities, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Maria Bellenghi
- Center for Gender-Specific Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Carla Lintas
- Research Unit of Medical Genetics, Department of Medicine, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, 00128 Rome, Italy;
- Operative Research Unit of Medical Genetics, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, 00128 Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio Tabolacci
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (G.C.); (M.B.); (M.B.A.); (S.R.)
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Koziej P, Kluszczynska K, Hartman ML, Czyz M. Trametinib-Resistant Melanoma Cells Displaying MITF high/NGFR low/IL-8 low Phenotype Are Highly Responsive to Alternating Periods of Drug Withdrawal and Drug Rechallenge. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24097891. [PMID: 37175614 PMCID: PMC10178474 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24097891] [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: 03/19/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite significant advances in targeted therapies against the hyperactivated BRAFV600/MEK pathway for patients with unresectable metastatic melanoma, acquired resistance remains an unsolved clinical problem. In this study, we focused on melanoma cells resistant to trametinib, an agent broadly used in combination therapies. Molecular and cellular changes were assessed during alternating periods of trametinib withdrawal and rechallenge in trametinib-resistant cell lines displaying either a differentiation phenotype (MITFhigh/NGFRlow) or neural crest stem-like dedifferentiation phenotype (NGFRhigh/MITFlow). Neither drug withdrawal nor drug rechallenge induced cell death, and instead of loss of fitness, trametinib-resistant melanoma cells adapted to altered conditions by phenotype switching. In resistant cells displaying a differentiation phenotype, trametinib withdrawal markedly decreased MITF level and activity, which was associated with reduced cell proliferation capacity, and induced stemness assessed as NGFR-positive cells and senescence features, including IL-8 expression and secretion. All these changes could be reversed by trametinib re-exposure, which emphasizes melanoma cell plasticity. Trametinib-resistant cells displaying a dedifferentiation phenotype were less responsive presumably due to the already low level of MITF, a master regulator of the melanoma phenotype. Considering new directions of the development of anti-melanoma treatment, our study suggests that the phenotype of melanomas resistant to targeted therapy might be a crucial determinant of the selection of second-line therapy for melanoma patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paulina Koziej
- Department of Molecular Biology of Cancer, Medical University of Lodz, 6/8 Mazowiecka Street, 92-215 Lodz, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Kluszczynska
- Department of Molecular Biology of Cancer, Medical University of Lodz, 6/8 Mazowiecka Street, 92-215 Lodz, Poland
| | - Mariusz L Hartman
- Department of Molecular Biology of Cancer, Medical University of Lodz, 6/8 Mazowiecka Street, 92-215 Lodz, Poland
| | - Malgorzata Czyz
- Department of Molecular Biology of Cancer, Medical University of Lodz, 6/8 Mazowiecka Street, 92-215 Lodz, Poland
| |
Collapse
|