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Desoteux M, Maillot B, Bévant K, Ferlier T, Leroux R, Angenard G, Louis C, Sulpice L, Boudjema K, Coulouarn C. Transcriptomic evidence for tumor-specific beneficial or adverse effects of TGFβ pathway inhibition on the prognosis of patients with liver cancer. FEBS Open Bio 2023. [PMID: 37195148 DOI: 10.1002/2211-5463.13647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic targeting of the Transforming Growth Factor beta (TGFβ) pathway in cancer represents a clinical challenge since TGFβ exhibits either tumor suppressive or tumor promoting properties, depending on the tumor stage. Thus, treatment with galunisertib, a small molecule inhibitor of TGFβ receptor type 1, demonstrated clinical benefits only in subsets of patients. Due to the functional duality of TGFβ in cancer, one can hypothesize that inhibiting this pathway could result in beneficial or adverse effects depending on tumor subtypes. Here, we report distinct gene expression signatures in response to galunisertib in PLC/PRF/5 and SNU-449, two cell lines that recapitulate human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with good and poor prognosis, respectively. More importantly, integrative transcriptomics using independent cohorts of patients with HCC demonstrates that galunisertib-induced transcriptional reprogramming in SNU-449 is associated with human HCC with a better clinical outcome (i.e. increased overall survival), while galunisertib-induced transcriptional reprogramming in PLC/PRF/5 is associated with human HCC with a worse clinical outcome (i.e. reduced overall survival), demonstrating that galunisertib could indeed be beneficial or detrimental depending on HCC subtypes. Collectively, our study highlights the importance of patient selection to demonstrate a clinical benefit of TGFβ pathway inhibition and identifies Serpin Family F Member 2 (SERPINF2) as a putative companion biomarker for galunisertib in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthis Desoteux
- Inserm, Univ Rennes, UMR_S 1242, OSS (Oncogenesis Stress Signaling), Centre de Lutte contre le Cancer Eugène Marquis, F-35042, Rennes, France
| | - Betty Maillot
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Digestive Surgery, Rennes University Hospital, Rennes, France
| | - Kevin Bévant
- Inserm, Univ Rennes, UMR_S 1242, OSS (Oncogenesis Stress Signaling), Centre de Lutte contre le Cancer Eugène Marquis, F-35042, Rennes, France
| | - Tanguy Ferlier
- Inserm, Univ Rennes, UMR_S 1242, OSS (Oncogenesis Stress Signaling), Centre de Lutte contre le Cancer Eugène Marquis, F-35042, Rennes, France
| | - Raffaële Leroux
- Inserm, Univ Rennes, UMR_S 1242, OSS (Oncogenesis Stress Signaling), Centre de Lutte contre le Cancer Eugène Marquis, F-35042, Rennes, France
| | - Gaëlle Angenard
- Inserm, Univ Rennes, Inrae, UMR_S 1317, NuMeCan (Nutrition, Metabolisms and Cancer), Rennes, France
| | - Corentin Louis
- Inserm, Univ Rennes, UMR_S 1242, OSS (Oncogenesis Stress Signaling), Centre de Lutte contre le Cancer Eugène Marquis, F-35042, Rennes, France
| | - Laurent Sulpice
- Inserm, Univ Rennes, UMR_S 1242, OSS (Oncogenesis Stress Signaling), Centre de Lutte contre le Cancer Eugène Marquis, F-35042, Rennes, France
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Digestive Surgery, Rennes University Hospital, Rennes, France
- Clinical investigation center 1414, CHU de Rennes, Rennes, France
| | - Karim Boudjema
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Digestive Surgery, Rennes University Hospital, Rennes, France
- Clinical investigation center 1414, CHU de Rennes, Rennes, France
| | - Cédric Coulouarn
- Inserm, Univ Rennes, UMR_S 1242, OSS (Oncogenesis Stress Signaling), Centre de Lutte contre le Cancer Eugène Marquis, F-35042, Rennes, France
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2
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Tramontano C, Martins JP, De Stefano L, Kemell M, Correia A, Terracciano M, Borbone N, Rea I, Santos HA. Microfluidic-Assisted Production of Gastro-Resistant Active-Targeted Diatomite Nanoparticles for the Local Release of Galunisertib in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer Cells. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2202672. [PMID: 36459471 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202202672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
The oral route is highly desirable for colorectal cancer (CRC) treatment because it allows concentrating the drug in the colon and achieving a localized effect. However, orally administered drugs are often metabolized in the liver, resulting in reduced efficacy and the need for higher doses. Nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems can be engineered to prevent the diffusion of the drug in the stomach, addressing the release at the target site, and enhancing the efficacy of the delivered drug. Here, an orally administrable galunisertib delivery system is developed with gelatin-covered diatomite nanoparticles targeting the ligand 1-cell adhesion molecule (L1-CAM) on metastatic cells, and further encapsulated in an enteric matrix by microfluidics. The gastro-resistant polymer protects the nanoparticles from the action of the digestive enzymes and allows for a sustained release of galunisertib at the intestinal pH. The efficacy of antibody-antigen interactions to drive the internalization of nanoparticles in the targeted cells is investigated in CRC cells expressing abnormal (SW620) or basal levels (Caco-2, HT29-MTX) of L1-CAM. The combination of local drug release and active targeting enhances the effect of the delivered galunisertib, which inhibits the migration of the SW620 cells with greater efficiency compared to the free drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Tramontano
- Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems, Unit of Naples, National Research Council, Naples, 80131, Italy.,Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, 80131, Italy
| | - João Pedro Martins
- Drug Research Program, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, FI-00014, Finland
| | - Luca De Stefano
- Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems, Unit of Naples, National Research Council, Naples, 80131, Italy
| | - Marianna Kemell
- Department of Chemistry, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, FI-00014, Finland
| | - Alexandra Correia
- Drug Research Program, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, FI-00014, Finland
| | - Monica Terracciano
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, 80131, Italy
| | - Nicola Borbone
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, 80131, Italy
| | - Ilaria Rea
- Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems, Unit of Naples, National Research Council, Naples, 80131, Italy
| | - Hélder A Santos
- Drug Research Program, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, FI-00014, Finland.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, 9713 AV, The Netherlands.,W.J. Kolff Institute for Biomedical Engineering and Materials Science, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, 9713 AV, The Netherlands
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3
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Panzarini E, Leporatti S, Tenuzzo BA, Quarta A, Hanafy NAN, Giannelli G, Moliterni C, Vardanyan D, Sbarigia C, Fidaleo M, Tacconi S, Dini L. Therapeutic Effect of Polymeric Nanomicelles Formulation of LY2157299- Galunisertib on CCl 4-Induced Liver Fibrosis in Rats. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12111812. [PMID: 36579532 PMCID: PMC9692463 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12111812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis (HF) is a major cause of liver-related disorders and together with cancer-associated fibroblasts can favor liver cancer development by modulating the tumor microenvironment. Advanced HF, characterized by an excess of extracellular matrix (ECM), is mediated by TGF- β1, that activates hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and fibroblasts. A TGF-β1 receptor inhibitor, LY2157299 or Galunisertib (GLY), has shown promising results against chronic liver progression in animal models, and we show that it can be further improved by enhancing GLYs bioavailability through encapsulation in polymeric polygalacturonic-polyacrylic acid nanomicelles (GLY-NMs). GLY-NMs reduced HF in an in vivo rat model of liver fibrosis induced by intraperitoneal injection of CCl4 as shown by the morphological, biochemical, and molecular biology parameters of normal and fibrotic livers. Moreover, GLY-NM was able to induce recovery from HF better than free GLY. Indeed, the encapsulated drug reduces collagen deposition, hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation, prevents fatty degeneration and restores the correct lobular architecture of the liver as well as normalizes the serum parameters and expression of the genes involved in the onset of HF. In summary, GLY-NM improved the pharmacological activity of the free TGF- β1 inhibitor in the in vivo HF treatment and thus is a candidate as a novel therapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Panzarini
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies (Di.S.Te.B.A.), University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy; (E.P.); (B.A.T.); (D.V.)
| | - Stefano Leporatti
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR) NANOTEC istituto di Nanotecnologia-Istituto di Nanotecnologia, 73100 Lecce, Italy; (S.L.); (A.Q.)
| | - Bernardetta Anna Tenuzzo
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies (Di.S.Te.B.A.), University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy; (E.P.); (B.A.T.); (D.V.)
| | - Alessandra Quarta
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR) NANOTEC istituto di Nanotecnologia-Istituto di Nanotecnologia, 73100 Lecce, Italy; (S.L.); (A.Q.)
| | - Nemany A. N. Hanafy
- Nanomedicine Department, Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafr El Sheikh 6860404, Egypt;
| | - Gianluigi Giannelli
- National Institute of Gastroenterology S. De Bellis, IRCCS Research Hospital, Via Turi 27, 70013 Castellana Grotte, Italy;
| | - Camilla Moliterni
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology “Charles Darwin”, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (C.M.); (C.S.)
| | - Diana Vardanyan
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies (Di.S.Te.B.A.), University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy; (E.P.); (B.A.T.); (D.V.)
| | - Carolina Sbarigia
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology “Charles Darwin”, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (C.M.); (C.S.)
| | - Marco Fidaleo
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology “Charles Darwin”, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (C.M.); (C.S.)
- Research Center for Nanotechnology for Engineering of Sapienza (CNIS), Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (M.F.); (S.T.); (L.D.)
| | - Stefano Tacconi
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology “Charles Darwin”, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (C.M.); (C.S.)
- Correspondence: (M.F.); (S.T.); (L.D.)
| | - Luciana Dini
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology “Charles Darwin”, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (C.M.); (C.S.)
- Research Center for Nanotechnology for Engineering of Sapienza (CNIS), Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (M.F.); (S.T.); (L.D.)
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4
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Chen H, Fan L, Peng N, Yin Y, Mu D, Wang J, Meng R, Xie J. Galunisertib-Loaded Gelatin Methacryloyl Hydrogel Microneedle Patch for Cardiac Repair after Myocardial Infarction. ACS Appl Mater Interfaces 2022; 14:40491-40500. [PMID: 36038135 PMCID: PMC9478946 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c05352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Uncontrolled and excessive fibrosis after myocardial infarction (MI) in the peri-infarct zone leads to left ventricular remodeling and deterioration of cardiac function. Inhibiting fibroblast activation during the mature phase of cardiac repair improves cardiac remodeling and function after MI. Here, we engineered a biocompatible microneedle (MN) patch using gelatin methacryloyl and loaded it with galunisertib, a transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β)-specific inhibitor, to treat excessive cardiac fibrosis after MI. The MN patch could sustainably release galunisertib for more than 2 weeks and provide mechanical support for the fragile ventricular wall. After being applied to a rat model of MI, the galunisertib-loaded MN patch improved long-term cardiac function and reduced cardiac fibrosis by effectively inhibiting TGF-β depending on fibroblast activation. This strategy shows the potential of the MN patch as an advanced platform to locally deliver direct antifibrotic drugs to prevent myocardial fibrosis for the treatment of MI and the promotion of cardiac repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiting Chen
- Department
of Cardiology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, the Affiliated Hospital
of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing
University, No. 321 Zhongshan
Road, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Lu Fan
- State
Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and
Medical Engineering, Southeast University, No. 2, Sipailou, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Ningxin Peng
- Department
of Cardiology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, No. 321 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Yong Yin
- Department
of Cardiology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, the Affiliated Hospital
of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing
University, No. 321 Zhongshan
Road, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Dan Mu
- Department
of Radiology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital
of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing
University, No. 321 Zhongshan
Road, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Jun Wang
- Department
of Emergency, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital
of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing
University, No. 321 Zhongshan
Road, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Ran Meng
- Department
of Endocrinology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital
of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing
University, No. 321 Zhongshan
Road, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Jun Xie
- Department
of Cardiology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, the Affiliated Hospital
of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing
University, No. 321 Zhongshan
Road, Nanjing 210008, China
- Department
of Cardiology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, No. 321 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing 210008, China
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5
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Hadizadeh M, AminJafari A, Parvizpour S, Ghasemi S. Novel targets to overcome antiangiogenesis therapy resistance in glioblastoma multiforme: Systems biology approach and suggestion of therapy by galunisertib. Cell Biol Int 2022; 46:1649-1660. [PMID: 35842773 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.11859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 06/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a tumor with high microvessel density. Antiangiogenesis therapy (AAT) resistance occurs due to the complex mechanisms involved in angiogenesis, with increased chances of recurrence. The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) pathway is the main pathway of angiogenesis, and anti-VEGF drugs have been ineffective in controlling it. New oncogenes in the VEGF signaling pathway may be new candidates for angiogenesis targeting. Oncogene candidates were chosen using gene expression profiles and databases. Then oncogenes were subjected to gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) and survival analysis (SA). Molecular docking was conducted to evaluate the interaction of the oncogenes with galunisertib. NRAS, AKT1, and HSPB1 were the most effective oncogenes upregulating genes that play a role in GBM expression in the VEGF signaling pathway. The VEGF and MAPK signaling pathways were found to be effective using GSEA and Kyoto Encyclopedia Gene and Genome pathway analysis. Survival analyses revealed that patients with high HSPB1 expression had poorer overall survival rates than those with low HSPB1 expression. Galunisertib exhibits intermolecular interactions with 6DV5, 5UHV, and 3O96 (binding energy -8.0, -8.6, and -10.3 kcal/mol, respectively). The current AAT should be restrategized to suppress the numerous angiogenic elements to manage angiogenesis and combat AAT resistance in GBM. In silico analysis indicated that NRAS, AKT1, and HSPB1 genes can be the main oncogenes in the VEGF signaling pathway and galunisertib strongly interacts with these genes. Consequently, the use of galunisertib to overcome AAT in GBM in combination therapy can be assessed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morteza Hadizadeh
- Physiology Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Akram AminJafari
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, School of Advanced Technologies, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Sepideh Parvizpour
- Research Center for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Biomedicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Sorayya Ghasemi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
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6
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Rana M, Kansal R, Chaib M, Teng B, Morrrison M, Hayes DN, Stanfill AG, Shibata D, Carson JA, Makowski L, Glazer ES. The pancreatic cancer immune tumor microenvironment is negatively remodeled by gemcitabine while TGF-β receptor plus dual checkpoint inhibition maintains antitumor immune cells. Mol Carcinog 2022; 61:549-557. [PMID: 35319799 DOI: 10.1002/mc.23401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) tumors have a highly immunosuppressive desmoplastic tumor microenvironment (TME) where immune checkpoint inhibition (ICI) therapy has been exceptionally ineffective. Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) receptor activation leads to cancer and immune cell proliferation and phenotype, and cytokine production leading to tumor progression and worse overall survival in PDA patients. We hypothesized that TGF-β receptor inhibition may alter PDA progression and antitumor immunity in the TME. Here, we used a syngeneic preclinical murine model of PDA to explore the impact of TGF-β pathway inhibitor galunisertib (GAL), dual checkpoint immunotherapy (anti-PD-L1 and CTLA-4), the chemotherapy gemcitabine (GEM), and their combinations on antitumor immune responses. Blockade of TGF-β and ICI in immune-competent mice bearing orthotopically injected murine PDA cells significantly inhibited tumor growth and was accompanied by antitumor M1 macrophage infiltration. In contrast, GEM treatment resulted in increased PDA tumor growth, decreased antitumor M1 macrophages, and decreased cytotoxic CD8+ T cell subpopulation compared to control mice. Together, these findings demonstrate the ability of TGF-β inhibition with GAL to prime antitumor immunity in the TME and the curative potential of combining GAL with dual ICI. These preclinical results indicate that targeted inhibition of TGF-β may enhance the efficacy of dual immunotherapy in PDA. Optimal manipulation of the immune TME with non-ICI therapy may enhance therapeutic efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manjul Rana
- Department of Surgery, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Rita Kansal
- Department of Surgery, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Mehdi Chaib
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Bin Teng
- Center for Cancer Research, College of Medicine, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Michelle Morrrison
- Center for Cancer Research, College of Medicine, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - David Neil Hayes
- Center for Cancer Research, College of Medicine, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Ansley G Stanfill
- Department of Nursing Science, College of Nursing, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - David Shibata
- Department of Surgery, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
- Center for Cancer Research, College of Medicine, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - James A Carson
- Department of Physical Therapy, College of Health Professions, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Liza Makowski
- Center for Cancer Research, College of Medicine, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Evan S Glazer
- Department of Surgery, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
- Center for Cancer Research, College of Medicine, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
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Harding JJ, Do RK, Yaqubie A, Cleverly A, Zhao Y, Gueorguieva I, Lahn M, Benhadji KA, Kelley RK, Abou‐Alfa GK. Phase 1b study of galunisertib and ramucirumab in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Med 2021; 10:3059-3067. [PMID: 33811482 PMCID: PMC8085979 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.3880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preclinical data suggest that vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β signaling interact to stimulate angiogenesis and suppress antitumor immune responses. Thus, combined inhibition of both pathways may offer greater antitumor activity compared with VEGF-targeted antiangiogenic monotherapy against hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). METHODS This is a multicenter, open-label, phase 1b study of galunisertib, an inhibitor of TGF-β receptor 1, and ramucirumab, an anti-VEGF receptor 2 antibody, in patients with advanced HCC aiming to define the maximum tolerated dose (MTD). Secondary objectives included safety, pharmacokinetics (PK), antitumor efficacy, and plasma alpha-fetoprotein and TGF-β kinetics. Dose escalation employed a 3 + 3 design. Patients received galunisertib at 80 mg (cohort 1) or 150 mg (cohort 2) orally twice a day on days 1-14 of a 28-day cycle combined with ramucirumab 8 mg/kg intravenously every 2 weeks. RESULTS Eight patients were enrolled: three in cohort 1 and five in cohort 2 (two patients were unevaluable due to rapid disease progression and replaced). No dose-limiting toxicities were observed. Treatment-related adverse events (AEs) of any grade in ≥2 patients included nausea (25%) and vomiting (25%). There was one Grade 3 treatment-related AE, a cerebrovascular accident possibly related to ramucirumab. Galunisertib exposure was dose-proportional and not affected by ramucirumab. The RECIST version 1.1 objective response rate and disease control rate were 0% and 12.5%, respectively. CONCLUSION Combination therapy was safe and tolerable and displayed favorable PK. The MTD was established at galunisertib at 150 mg orally twice a day and ramucirumab 8 mg/kg intravenously every 2 weeks. The results do not support the preclinical hypothesis that blocking TGFβ signaling enhances efficacy of VEGF-targeted therapy; thus further clinical development was halted for the combination of galunisertib and ramucirumab.
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MESH Headings
- Aged
- Aged, 80 and over
- Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/administration & dosage
- Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/adverse effects
- Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/pharmacokinetics
- Antineoplastic Agents/administration & dosage
- Antineoplastic Agents/adverse effects
- Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacokinetics
- Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols/administration & dosage
- Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols/adverse effects
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/drug therapy
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/metabolism
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/pathology
- Female
- Humans
- Liver Neoplasms/drug therapy
- Liver Neoplasms/metabolism
- Liver Neoplasms/pathology
- Male
- Maximum Tolerated Dose
- Middle Aged
- Nausea/chemically induced
- Prospective Studies
- Pyrazoles/administration & dosage
- Pyrazoles/adverse effects
- Pyrazoles/pharmacokinetics
- Quinolines/administration & dosage
- Quinolines/adverse effects
- Quinolines/pharmacokinetics
- Receptor, Transforming Growth Factor-beta Type I/antagonists & inhibitors
- Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors
- Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A/metabolism
- Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor-2/antagonists & inhibitors
- Vomiting/chemically induced
- alpha-Fetoproteins/analysis
- Ramucirumab
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Affiliation(s)
- James J. Harding
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer CenterNew YorkNYUSA
- Weill Cornell Medical CollegeNew YorkNYUSA
| | - Richard K. Do
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer CenterNew YorkNYUSA
- Weill Cornell Medical CollegeNew YorkNYUSA
| | - Amin Yaqubie
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer CenterNew YorkNYUSA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Robin K. Kelley
- Helen Diller Cancer CenterUniversity of California San FranciscoSan FranciscoCAUSA
| | - Ghassan K. Abou‐Alfa
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer CenterNew YorkNYUSA
- Weill Cornell Medical CollegeNew YorkNYUSA
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8
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Sulochana SP, Trivedi RK, Srinivas NR, Mullangi R. A concise review of bioanalytical methods of small molecule immuno-oncology drugs in cancer therapy. Biomed Chromatogr 2020; 35:e4996. [PMID: 33047346 DOI: 10.1002/bmc.4996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Immuno-oncology (IO) is an emerging option to treat cancer malignancies. In the last two years, IO has accounted for more than 90% of the new active drugs in various therapeutic indications of oncology drug development. Bioanalytical methods used for the quantitation of various IO small molecule drugs have been summarized in this review. The most commonly used are HPLC and LC-MS/MS methods. Determination of IO drugs from biological matrices involves drug extraction from the biological matrix, which is mostly achieved by simple protein precipitation, liquid-liquid extraction and solid-phase extraction. Subsequently, quantitation is usually achieved by LC-MS/MS, but HPLC-UV has also been employed. The bioanalytical methods reported for each drug are briefly discussed and tabulated for easy access. Our review indicates that LC-MS/MS is a versatile and reliable tool for the sensitive, rapid and robust quantitation of IO drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suresh P Sulochana
- Pharmacokinetics and Drug Metabolism Group, University of Mississippi, MS, USA
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9
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Bigaeva E, Puerta Cavanzo N, Stribos EGD, de Jong AJ, Biel C, Mutsaers HAM, Jensen MS, Nørregaard R, Leliveld AM, de Jong IJ, Hillebrands JL, van Goor H, Boersema M, Bank RA, Olinga P. Predictive Value of Precision-Cut Kidney Slices as an Ex Vivo Screening Platform for Therapeutics in Human Renal Fibrosis. Pharmaceutics 2020; 12:E459. [PMID: 32443499 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics12050459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Revised: 05/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Animal models are a valuable tool in preclinical research. However, limited predictivity of human biological responses in the conventional models has stimulated the search for reliable preclinical tools that show translational robustness. Here, we used precision-cut kidney slices (PCKS) as a model of renal fibrosis and investigated its predictive capacity for screening the effects of anti-fibrotics. Murine and human PCKS were exposed to TGFβ or PDGF pathway inhibitors with established anti-fibrotic efficacy. For each treatment modality, we evaluated whether it affected: (1) culture-induced collagen type I gene expression and interstitial accumulation; (2) expression of markers of TGFβ and PDGF signaling; and (3) expression of inflammatory markers. We summarized the outcomes of published in vivo animal and human studies testing the three inhibitors in renal fibrosis, and drew a parallel to the PCKS data. We showed that the responses of murine PCKS to anti-fibrotics highly corresponded with the known in vivo responses observed in various animal models of renal fibrosis. Moreover, our results suggested that human PCKS can be used to predict drug efficacy in clinical trials. In conclusion, our study demonstrated that the PCKS model is a powerful predictive tool for ex vivo screening of putative drugs for renal fibrosis.
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Bureta C, Setoguchi T, Saitoh Y, Tominaga H, Maeda S, Nagano S, Komiya S, Yamamoto T, Taniguchi N. TGF-β Promotes the Proliferation of Microglia In Vitro. Brain Sci 2019; 10:brainsci10010020. [PMID: 31905898 PMCID: PMC7016844 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10010020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2019] [Revised: 12/21/2019] [Accepted: 12/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The activation and proliferation of microglia is characteristic of the early stages of brain pathologies. In this study, we aimed to identify a factor that promotes microglial activation and proliferation and examined the in vitro effects on these processes. We cultured microglial cell lines, EOC 2 and SIM-A9, with various growth factors and evaluated cell proliferation, death, and viability. The results showed that only transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) caused an increase in the in vitro proliferation of both microglial cell lines. It has been reported that colony-stimulating factor 1 promotes the proliferation of microglia, while TGF-β promotes both proliferation and inhibition of cell death of microglia. However, upon comparing the most effective doses of both (assessed from the proliferation assay), we identified no statistically significant difference between the two factors in terms of cell death; thus, both have a proliferative effect on microglial cells. In addition, a TGF-β receptor 1 inhibitor, galunisertib, caused marked inhibition of proliferation in a dose-dependent manner, indicating that inhibition of TGF-β signalling reduces the proliferation of microglia. Therefore, galunisertib may represent a promising therapeutic agent for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases via inhibition of nerve injury-induced microglial proliferation, which may result in reduced inflammatory and neuropathic and cancer pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Costansia Bureta
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima University, 8-35-1 Sakuragaoka, Kagoshima 890-8520, Japan
| | - Takao Setoguchi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Japanese Red Cross Kagoshima Hospital, Kagoshima 891-0133, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-992-612-111; Fax: +81-992-610-491
| | - Yoshinobu Saitoh
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima University, 8-35-1 Sakuragaoka, Kagoshima 890-8520, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Tominaga
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima University, 8-35-1 Sakuragaoka, Kagoshima 890-8520, Japan
| | - Shingo Maeda
- Department of Medical Joint Materials, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-8520, Japan
| | - Satoshi Nagano
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima University, 8-35-1 Sakuragaoka, Kagoshima 890-8520, Japan
| | - Setsuro Komiya
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima University, 8-35-1 Sakuragaoka, Kagoshima 890-8520, Japan
| | - Takuya Yamamoto
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Japanese Red Cross Kagoshima Hospital, Kagoshima 891-0133, Japan
| | - Noboru Taniguchi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima University, 8-35-1 Sakuragaoka, Kagoshima 890-8520, Japan
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Faivre S, Santoro A, Kelley RK, Gane E, Costentin CE, Gueorguieva I, Smith C, Cleverly A, Lahn MM, Raymond E, Benhadji KA, Giannelli G. Novel transforming growth factor beta receptor I kinase inhibitor galunisertib (LY2157299) in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma. Liver Int 2019; 39:1468-1477. [PMID: 30963691 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2018] [Revised: 03/22/2019] [Accepted: 03/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS We assessed the activity of galunisertib, a small molecule inhibitor of the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β1) receptor I, in second-line patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in two cohorts of baseline serum alpha fetoprotein (AFP). METHODS Patients with advanced HCC who progressed on or were ineligible to receive sorafenib, Child-Pugh A/B7 and ECOG PS ≤1 were enrolled into Part A (AFP ≥ 1.5× ULN) or Part B (AFP < 1.5× ULN). Patients were treated with 80 or 150 mg galunisertib BID for 14 days per 28-day cycle. Endpoints were time-to-progression (TTP) and changes in circulating AFP and TGF-β1 levels, as well as safety, pharmacokinetics, progression-free survival and overall survival (OS). RESULTS Patients (n = 149) were enrolled with median age 65 years. Median TTP was 2.7 months (95% CI: 1.5-2.9) in Part A (n = 109) and 4.2 months (95% CI: 1.7-5.5) in Part B (n = 40). Median OS was 7.3 months (95% CI: 4.9-10.5) in Part A and 16.8 months (95% CI: 10.5-24.4) in Part B. OS was longer in AFP responders (>20% decrease from baseline, Part A) compared to non-responders (21.5 months vs 6.8 months). OS was longer in TGF-β1 responders (>20% decrease from baseline, all patients) compared to non-responders. The most common Grade 3/4 treatment-related adverse events were neutropenia (n = 4) and fatigue, anaemia, increased bilirubin, hypoalbuminemia and embolism (each, n = 2). CONCLUSIONS Galunisertib treatment had a manageable safety profile in patients with HCC. Lower baseline AFP and a response in AFP or TGF-β1 levels (vs no response) correlated with longer survival. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT01246986 at ClinicalTrials.gov.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Armando Santoro
- Istituto Clinico Humanitas, Humanitas University, Rozzano, Italy
| | | | - Ed Gane
- Auckland City Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
| | | | | | - Claire Smith
- Lilly Research Centre Erl Wood Manor, Windlesham, UK
| | - Ann Cleverly
- Lilly Research Centre Erl Wood Manor, Windlesham, UK
| | | | - Eric Raymond
- Centre Hospitalier Paris Saint-Joseph, Paris, France
| | | | - Gianluigi Giannelli
- National Institute of Gastroenterology, Research Instituts "S. De Bellis" Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, Bari, Italy
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12
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Li W, Tibben M, Wang Y, Lebre MC, Rosing H, Beijnen JH, Schinkel AH. P-glycoprotein (MDR1/ABCB1) controls brain accumulation and intestinal disposition of the novel TGF-β signaling pathway inhibitor galunisertib. Int J Cancer 2019; 146:1631-1642. [PMID: 31304590 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.32568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2019] [Revised: 07/04/2019] [Accepted: 07/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Galunisertib (LY2157299), a promising small-molecule inhibitor of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) receptor, is currently in mono- and combination therapy trials for various cancers including glioblastoma, hepatocellular carcinoma and breast cancer. Using genetically modified mouse models, we investigated the roles of the multidrug efflux transporters ABCB1 and ABCG2, the OATP1A/1B uptake transporters and the drug-metabolizing CYP3A complex in galunisertib pharmacokinetics. In vitro, galunisertib was vigorously transported by human ABCB1, and moderately by mouse Abcg2. Orally administered galunisertib (20 mg/kg) was very rapidly absorbed. Galunisertib brain-to-plasma ratios were increased by ~24-fold in Abcb1a/1b-/- and Abcb1a/1b;Abcg2-/- mice compared to wild-type mice, but not in single Abcg2-/- mice, whereas galunisertib oral availability was not markedly affected. However, recovery of galunisertib in the small intestinal lumen was strongly reduced in Abcb1a/1b-/- and Abcb1a/1b;Abcg2-/- mice. Oral coadministration of the ABCB1/ABCG2 inhibitor elacridar boosted galunisertib brain accumulation in wild-type mice to equal the levels seen in Abcb1a/1b;Abcg2-/- mice. Oatp1a/1b deficiency did not alter oral galunisertib pharmacokinetics or liver distribution. Cyp3a-/- mice showed a 1.9-fold higher plasma AUC0-1 hr than wild-type mice, but this difference disappeared over 8 hr. Also, transgenic human CYP3A4 overexpression did not significantly alter oral galunisertib pharmacokinetics. Abcb1 thus markedly restricts galunisertib brain penetration and affects its intestinal disposition, possibly through biliary excretion. Elacridar coadministration could fully inhibit both processes, without causing acute toxicity. Moreover, mouse Cyp3a, but not human CYP3A4, may eliminate galunisertib at high plasma concentrations. These insights may help to guide the further clinical development and application of galunisertib.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenlong Li
- The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Division of Pharmacology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Matthijs Tibben
- The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Department of Pharmacy & Pharmacology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Yaogeng Wang
- The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Division of Pharmacology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maria C Lebre
- The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Division of Pharmacology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Hilde Rosing
- The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Department of Pharmacy & Pharmacology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jos H Beijnen
- The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Division of Pharmacology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Department of Pharmacy & Pharmacology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Utrecht University, Faculty of Science, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmacoepidemiology & Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Alfred H Schinkel
- The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Division of Pharmacology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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13
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Abstract
Renal fibrosis is the final common pathway of numerous progressive kidney diseases, and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) has an important role in tissue fibrosis by up-regulating matrix protein synthesis, inhibiting matrix degradation, and altering cell-cell interaction. Many strategies targeting TGF-β, including inhibition of production, activation, binding to the receptor, and intracellular signaling, have been developed. Some of them were examined in clinical studies against kidney fibrosis, and some are applied to other fibrotic diseases or cancer. Here, I review the approaches targeting TGF-β signaling in kidney fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshitaka Isaka
- Department of Nephrology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita 565-0871, Japan.
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14
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Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) is a cytokine essential for the induction of the fibrotic response and for the activation of the cancer stroma. Strong evidence suggests that a strong cross-talk exists among TGF-β and the tissue extracellular matrix components. TGF-β is stored in the matrix as part of a large latent complex bound to the latent TGF-β binding protein (LTBP) and matrix binding of latent TGF-β complexes, which is required for an adequate TGF-β function. Once TGF-β is activated, it regulates extracellular matrix remodelling and promotes a fibroblast to myofibroblast transition, which is essential in fibrotic processes. This cytokine also acts on other cell types present in the fibrotic and tumour microenvironment, such as epithelial, endothelial cells or macrophages and it contributes to the cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF) phenotype. Furthermore, TGF-β exerts anti-tumour activity by inhibiting the host tumour immunosurveillance. Aim of this review is to update how TGF-β and the tissue microenvironment cooperate to promote the pleiotropic actions that regulate cell responses of different cell types, essential for the development of fibrosis and tumour progression. We discuss recent evidences suggesting the use of TGF-β chemical inhibitors as a new line of defence against fibrotic disorders or cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laia Caja
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Biomedical Center, Uppsala University, Box 582, 75123 Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Francesco Dituri
- National Institute of Gastroenterology, "S. de Bellis" Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy.
| | - Serena Mancarella
- National Institute of Gastroenterology, "S. de Bellis" Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy.
| | - Daniel Caballero-Diaz
- TGF-β and Cancer Group, Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Gran Via de l'Hospitalet, 199, 08908 Barcelona, Spain.
- Oncology Program, CIBEREHD, National Biomedical Research Institute on Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Aristidis Moustakas
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Biomedical Center, Uppsala University, Box 582, 75123 Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Gianluigi Giannelli
- National Institute of Gastroenterology, "S. de Bellis" Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy.
| | - Isabel Fabregat
- TGF-β and Cancer Group, Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Gran Via de l'Hospitalet, 199, 08908 Barcelona, Spain.
- Oncology Program, CIBEREHD, National Biomedical Research Institute on Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain.
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, L'Hospitalet, 08907 Barcelona, Spain.
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15
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Caja L, Dituri F, Mancarella S, Caballero-Diaz D, Moustakas A, Giannelli G, Fabregat I. TGF-β and the Tissue Microenvironment: Relevance in Fibrosis and Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19051294. [PMID: 29701666 PMCID: PMC5983604 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19051294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 207] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2018] [Revised: 04/17/2018] [Accepted: 04/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) is a cytokine essential for the induction of the fibrotic response and for the activation of the cancer stroma. Strong evidence suggests that a strong cross-talk exists among TGF-β and the tissue extracellular matrix components. TGF-β is stored in the matrix as part of a large latent complex bound to the latent TGF-β binding protein (LTBP) and matrix binding of latent TGF-β complexes, which is required for an adequate TGF-β function. Once TGF-β is activated, it regulates extracellular matrix remodelling and promotes a fibroblast to myofibroblast transition, which is essential in fibrotic processes. This cytokine also acts on other cell types present in the fibrotic and tumour microenvironment, such as epithelial, endothelial cells or macrophages and it contributes to the cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF) phenotype. Furthermore, TGF-β exerts anti-tumour activity by inhibiting the host tumour immunosurveillance. Aim of this review is to update how TGF-β and the tissue microenvironment cooperate to promote the pleiotropic actions that regulate cell responses of different cell types, essential for the development of fibrosis and tumour progression. We discuss recent evidences suggesting the use of TGF-β chemical inhibitors as a new line of defence against fibrotic disorders or cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laia Caja
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Biomedical Center, Uppsala University, Box 582, 75123 Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Francesco Dituri
- National Institute of Gastroenterology, "S. de Bellis" Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy.
| | - Serena Mancarella
- National Institute of Gastroenterology, "S. de Bellis" Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy.
| | - Daniel Caballero-Diaz
- TGF-β and Cancer Group, Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Gran Via de l'Hospitalet, 199, 08908 Barcelona, Spain.
- Oncology Program, CIBEREHD, National Biomedical Research Institute on Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Aristidis Moustakas
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Biomedical Center, Uppsala University, Box 582, 75123 Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Gianluigi Giannelli
- National Institute of Gastroenterology, "S. de Bellis" Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy.
| | - Isabel Fabregat
- TGF-β and Cancer Group, Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Gran Via de l'Hospitalet, 199, 08908 Barcelona, Spain.
- Oncology Program, CIBEREHD, National Biomedical Research Institute on Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain.
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, L'Hospitalet, 08907 Barcelona, Spain.
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16
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Yingling JM, McMillen WT, Yan L, Huang H, Sawyer JS, Graff J, Clawson DK, Britt KS, Anderson BD, Beight DW, Desaiah D, Lahn MM, Benhadji KA, Lallena MJ, Holmgaard RB, Xu X, Zhang F, Manro JR, Iversen PW, Iyer CV, Brekken RA, Kalos MD, Driscoll KE. Preclinical assessment of galunisertib (LY2157299 monohydrate), a first-in-class transforming growth factor-β receptor type I inhibitor. Oncotarget 2018; 9:6659-6677. [PMID: 29467918 PMCID: PMC5805504 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.23795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2017] [Accepted: 12/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) is an important driver of tumor growth via intrinsic and extrinsic mechanisms, and is therefore an attractive target for developing cancer therapeutics. Using preclinical models, we characterized the anti-tumor activity of a small molecule inhibitor of TGFβ receptor I (TGFβRI), galunisertib (LY2157299 monohydrate). Galunisertib demonstrated potent and selective inhibition of TGFβRI with corresponding inhibition of downstream signaling via inhibition of SMAD phosphorylation (pSMAD). Galunisertib also inhibited TGFβ-induced pSMAD in vivo, which enabled a pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic profile in Calu6 and EMT6-LM2 tumors. Galunisertib demonstrated anti-tumor activity including inhibition of tumor cell migration and mesenchymal phenotype, reversal of TGFβ-mediated immune-suppression, and tumor growth delay. A concentration-effect relationship was established with a dosing schedule to achieve the optimal level of target modulation. Finally, a rat model demonstrated a correlation between galunisertib-dependent inhibition of pSMAD in tumor tissues and in PBMCs, supporting the use of PBMCs for assessing pharmacodynamic effects. Galunisertib has been tested in several clinical studies with evidence of anti-tumor activity observed in subsets of patients. Here, we demonstrate that galunisertib inhibits a number of TGFβ-dependent functions leading to anti-tumor activity. The enhanced understanding of galunisertib provides rationale for further informed clinical development of TGFβ pathway inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - William T. McMillen
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN and New York, NY, USA
| | - Lei Yan
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN and New York, NY, USA
| | - Huocong Huang
- Hamon Center for Therapeutic Oncology Research, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - J. Scott Sawyer
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN and New York, NY, USA
| | - Jeremy Graff
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN and New York, NY, USA
| | - David K. Clawson
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN and New York, NY, USA
| | - Karen S. Britt
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN and New York, NY, USA
| | - Bryan D. Anderson
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN and New York, NY, USA
| | - Douglas W. Beight
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN and New York, NY, USA
| | - Durisala Desaiah
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN and New York, NY, USA
| | - Michael M. Lahn
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN and New York, NY, USA
| | - Karim A. Benhadji
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN and New York, NY, USA
| | - Maria J. Lallena
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN and New York, NY, USA
| | - Rikke B. Holmgaard
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN and New York, NY, USA
| | - Xiaohong Xu
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN and New York, NY, USA
| | - Faming Zhang
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN and New York, NY, USA
| | - Jason R. Manro
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN and New York, NY, USA
| | - Philip W. Iversen
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN and New York, NY, USA
| | - Chandrasekar V. Iyer
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN and New York, NY, USA
| | - Rolf A. Brekken
- Hamon Center for Therapeutic Oncology Research, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Michael D. Kalos
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN and New York, NY, USA
| | - Kyla E. Driscoll
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN and New York, NY, USA
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17
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de Gramont A, Faivre S, Raymond E. Novel TGF- β inhibitors ready for prime time in onco-immunology. Oncoimmunology 2016; 6:e1257453. [PMID: 28197376 PMCID: PMC5283641 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2016.1257453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 143] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2016] [Revised: 10/28/2016] [Accepted: 11/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Transforming Growth Factor (TGF)-β inhibitors have been in development for decades with the outmost results of being promising candidates. From the latest clinical results at the 2016 ASCO meeting converging evidences suggest that we have moved from promising to effective drug nominees.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sandrine Faivre
- Medical Oncology, Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris Nord Val de Seine (HUPVNS), Université Paris 7 , Paris, France
| | - Eric Raymond
- Medical Oncology, Groupe Hospitalier Paris Saint-Joseph , Paris, France
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18
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Serova M, Tijeras-Raballand A, Dos Santos C, Albuquerque M, Paradis V, Neuzillet C, Benhadji KA, Raymond E, Faivre S, de Gramont A. Effects of TGF-beta signalling inhibition with galunisertib (LY2157299) in hepatocellular carcinoma models and in ex vivo whole tumor tissue samples from patients. Oncotarget 2015; 6:21614-27. [PMID: 26057634 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.4308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2014] [Accepted: 05/12/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Galunisertib (LY2157299) is a selective ATP-mimetic inhibitor of TGF-β receptor (TβR)-I activation currently under clinical investigation in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. Our study explored the effects of galunisertib in vitro in HCC cell lines and ex vivo on patient samples. Galunisertib was evaluated in HepG2, Hep3B, Huh7, JHH6 and SK-HEP1 cells as well as in SK-HEP1-derived cells tolerant to sorafenib (SK-Sora) and sunitinib (SK-Suni). Exogenous stimulation of all HCC cell lines with TGF-β yielded downstream activation of p-Smad2 and p-Smad3 that was potently inhibited with galunisertib treatment at micromolar concentrations. Despite limited antiproliferative effects, galunisertib yielded potent anti-invasive properties. Tumor slices from 13 patients with HCC surgically resected were exposed ex vivo to 1 μM and 10 μM galunisertib, 5 μM sorafenib or a combination of both drugs for 48 hours. Galunisertib but not sorafenib decreased p-Smad2/3 downstream TGF-β signaling. Immunohistochemistry analysis of galunisertib and sorafenib-exposed samples showed a significant decrease of the proliferative marker Ki67 and increase of the apoptotic marker caspase-3. In combination, galunisertib potentiated the effect of sorafenib efficiently by inhibiting proliferation and increasing apoptosis. Our data suggest that galunisertib may be active in patients with HCC and could potentiate the effects of sorafenib.
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19
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Giannelli G, Mikulits W, Dooley S, Fabregat I, Moustakas A, ten Dijke P, Portincasa P, Winter P, Janssen R, Leporatti S, Herrera B, Sanchez A. The rationale for targeting TGF-β in chronic liver diseases. Eur J Clin Invest 2016; 46:349-61. [PMID: 26823073 DOI: 10.1111/eci.12596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2015] [Accepted: 01/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β is a pluripotent cytokine that displays several tissue-specific biological activities. In the liver, TGF-β is considered a fundamental molecule, controlling organ size and growth by limiting hepatocyte proliferation. It is involved in fibrogenesis and, therefore, in worsening liver damage, as well as in triggering the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). TGF-β is known to act as an oncosuppressor and also as a tumour promoter in HCC, but its role is still unclear. DESIGN In this review, we discuss the potential role of TGF-β in regulating the tumoural progression of HCC, and therefore the rationale for targeting this molecule in patients with HCC. RESULTS A considerable amount of experimental preclinical evidence suggests that TGF-β is a promising druggable target in patients with HCC. To support this hypothesis, a phase II clinical trial is currently ongoing using a TGF-β pathway inhibitor, and results will soon be available. CONCLUSIONS The identification of new TGF-β related biomarkers will help to select those patients most likely to benefit from therapy aimed at inhibiting the TGF-β pathway. New formulations that may provide a more controlled and sustained delivery of the drug will improve the therapeutic success of such treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianluigi Giannelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
| | - Wolfgang Mikulits
- Department of Medicine I, Institute of Cancer Research, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Steven Dooley
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty, Mannheim Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Isabel Fabregat
- Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Aristidis Moustakas
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology and Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Biomedical Center, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Peter ten Dijke
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Cancer Genomics Centre Netherlands, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Piero Portincasa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Blanca Herrera
- Dep. Bioquímica y Biología Molecular II, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Aranzazu Sanchez
- Dep. Bioquímica y Biología Molecular II, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
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Herbertz S, Sawyer JS, Stauber AJ, Gueorguieva I, Driscoll KE, Estrem ST, Cleverly AL, Desaiah D, Guba SC, Benhadji KA, Slapak CA, Lahn MM. Clinical development of galunisertib (LY2157299 monohydrate), a small molecule inhibitor of transforming growth factor-beta signaling pathway. Drug Des Devel Ther 2015; 9:4479-99. [PMID: 26309397 PMCID: PMC4539082 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s86621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 248] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling regulates a wide range of biological processes. TGF-β plays an important role in tumorigenesis and contributes to the hallmarks of cancer, including tumor proliferation, invasion and metastasis, inflammation, angiogenesis, and escape of immune surveillance. There are several pharmacological approaches to block TGF-β signaling, such as monoclonal antibodies, vaccines, antisense oligonucleotides, and small molecule inhibitors. Galunisertib (LY2157299 monohydrate) is an oral small molecule inhibitor of the TGF-β receptor I kinase that specifically downregulates the phosphorylation of SMAD2, abrogating activation of the canonical pathway. Furthermore, galunisertib has antitumor activity in tumor-bearing animal models such as breast, colon, lung cancers, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Continuous long-term exposure to galunisertib caused cardiac toxicities in animals requiring adoption of a pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic-based dosing strategy to allow further development. The use of such a pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic model defined a therapeutic window with an appropriate safety profile that enabled the clinical investigation of galunisertib. These efforts resulted in an intermittent dosing regimen (14 days on/14 days off, on a 28-day cycle) of galunisertib for all ongoing trials. Galunisertib is being investigated either as monotherapy or in combination with standard antitumor regimens (including nivolumab) in patients with cancer with high unmet medical needs such as glioblastoma, pancreatic cancer, and hepatocellular carcinoma. The present review summarizes the past and current experiences with different pharmacological treatments that enabled galunisertib to be investigated in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - J Scott Sawyer
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Anja J Stauber
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | | | - Kyla E Driscoll
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, New York, NY, USA
| | - Shawn T Estrem
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Ann L Cleverly
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Windlesham, Surrey, UK
| | - Durisala Desaiah
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Susan C Guba
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Karim A Benhadji
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | | | - Michael M Lahn
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN, USA
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