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Yu S, Cao S, He S, Zhang K. Locus-Specific Detection of DNA Methylation: The Advance, Challenge, and Perspective of CRISPR-Cas Assisted Biosensors. SMALL METHODS 2023; 7:e2201624. [PMID: 36609885 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202201624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) methylation is one of the epigenetic characteristics that result in heritable and revisable phenotype changes but without sequence changes in DNA. Aberrant methylation occurring at a specific locus was reported to be associated with cancers, insulin resistance, obesity, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, etc. Therefore, locus-specific DNA methylation can serve as a valuable biomarker for disease diagnosis and therapy. Recently, Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-Cas systems are applied to develop biosensors for DNA, ribonucleic acid, proteins, and small molecules detection. Because of their highly specific binding ability and signal amplification capacity, CRISPR-Cas assisted biosensor also serve as a potential tool for locus-specific detection of DNA methylation. In this perspective, based on the detection principle, a detailed classification and comprehensive discussion of recent works about the latest advances in locus-specific detection of DNA methylation using CRISPR-Cas systems are provided. Furthermore, current challenges and future perspectives of CRISPR-based locus-specific detection of DNA methylation are outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Songcheng Yu
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, No.100 Science Avenue, Zhengzhou City, 450001, P. R. China
| | - Shengnan Cao
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, No.100 Science Avenue, Zhengzhou City, 450001, P. R. China
| | - Sitian He
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, No.100 Science Avenue, Zhengzhou City, 450001, P. R. China
| | - Kaixiang Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, No.100 Science Avenue, Zhengzhou City, 450001, P. R. China
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Improving MGMT methylation status prediction of glioblastoma through optimizing radiomics features using genetic algorithm-based machine learning approach. Sci Rep 2022; 12:13412. [PMID: 35927323 PMCID: PMC9352871 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-17707-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
O6-Methylguanine-DNA-methyltransferase (MGMT) promoter methylation was shown in many studies to be an important predictive biomarker for temozolomide (TMZ) resistance and poor progression-free survival in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) patients. However, identifying the MGMT methylation status using molecular techniques remains challenging due to technical limitations, such as the inability to obtain tumor specimens, high prices for detection, and the high complexity of intralesional heterogeneity. To overcome these difficulties, we aimed to test the feasibility of using a novel radiomics-based machine learning (ML) model to preoperatively and noninvasively predict the MGMT methylation status. In this study, radiomics features extracted from multimodal images of GBM patients with annotated MGMT methylation status were downloaded from The Cancer Imaging Archive (TCIA) public database for retrospective analysis. The radiomics features extracted from multimodal images from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) had undergone a two-stage feature selection method, including an eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) feature selection model followed by a genetic algorithm (GA)-based wrapper model for extracting the most meaningful radiomics features for predictive purposes. The cross-validation results suggested that the GA-based wrapper model achieved the high performance with a sensitivity of 0.894, specificity of 0.966, and accuracy of 0.925 for predicting the MGMT methylation status in GBM. Application of the extracted GBM radiomics features on a low-grade glioma (LGG) dataset also achieved a sensitivity 0.780, specificity 0.620, and accuracy 0.750, indicating the potential of the selected radiomics features to be applied more widely on both low- and high-grade gliomas. The performance indicated that our model may potentially confer significant improvements in prognosis and treatment responses in GBM patients.
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How to Slow Down the Ticking Clock: Age-Associated Epigenetic Alterations and Related Interventions to Extend Life Span. Cells 2022; 11:cells11030468. [PMID: 35159278 PMCID: PMC8915189 DOI: 10.3390/cells11030468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic alterations pose one major hallmark of organismal aging. Here, we provide an overview on recent findings describing the epigenetic changes that arise during aging and in related maladies such as neurodegeneration and cancer. Specifically, we focus on alterations of histone modifications and DNA methylation and illustrate the link with metabolic pathways. Age-related epigenetic, transcriptional and metabolic deregulations are highly interconnected, which renders dissociating cause and effect complicated. However, growing amounts of evidence support the notion that aging is not only accompanied by epigenetic alterations, but also at least in part induced by those. DNA methylation clocks emerged as a tool to objectively determine biological aging and turned out as a valuable source in search of factors positively and negatively impacting human life span. Moreover, specific epigenetic signatures can be used as biomarkers for age-associated disorders or even as targets for therapeutic approaches, as will be covered in this review. Finally, we summarize recent potential intervention strategies that target epigenetic mechanisms to extend healthy life span and provide an outlook on future developments in the field of longevity research.
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MGMT promoter methylation in triple negative breast cancer of the GeparSixto trial. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0238021. [PMID: 32841306 PMCID: PMC7446962 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0238021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is typically treated with chemotherapeutic agents, including carboplatin (Cb), an DNA platinating agent. The O6-methylguanine-DNA-methyltransferase gene (MGMT) encodes for the protein O6-alkylguanine-DNA-alkyltransferase (MGMT protein). MGMT protein is involved in DNA repair mechanisms to remove mutagenic and cytotoxic adducts from O6-guanine in DNA. In glioblastoma multiforme, MGMT methylation status is a predictive biomarker for increased response to temozolomide therapy. It has been suggested, that MGMT protein may have relevance for cellular adaptation and could have an influence on resistance to carboplatin therapy. We investigated the influence of MGMT promoter methylation on pathologic complete response and survival of patients with TNBC treated in the neoadjuvant GeparSixto trial. In 174 of 210 available TNBC tumors a valid MGMT promoter methylation status was determined by pyrosequencing of 5 CpG islands. In 21.8%, we detected a mean MGMT promoter methylation >10%. Overall, MGMT promoter methylation was not significantly associated with pathological complete response (pCR) rate. After stratification for the two therapy arms with and without Cb no statistically significant differences in therapy response rates between the two MGMT promoter methylation groups could be observed. Our results show that different MGMT promoter methylation status is not related to different chemotherapy response rates in the TNBC setting in GeparSixto.
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Khatami F, Larijani B, Heshmat R, Nasiri S, Saffar H, Shafiee G, Mossafa A, Tavangar SM. Promoter Methylation of Four Tumor Suppressor Genes in Human Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2019; 14:290-298. [PMID: 31754358 PMCID: PMC6824767 DOI: 10.30699/ijp.2019.94401.1922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2018] [Accepted: 07/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVE Papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) is considered to be the most common type of thyroid malignancies. Epigenetic alteration, in which the chromatin conformation and gene expression change without changing the sequence of DNA, can occur in some tumor suppressor genes and oncogenes. Methylation is the most common type of epigenetic alterations that can be an excellent indicator of PTC invasive behavior. METHODS In this research, we determined the promoter methylation status of four tumor suppressor genes (SLC5A8, RASSF1, MGMT, and DNMT1) and compared the results of 55 PTC cases with 40 goiter patients. For methylation, we used the methylation-sensitive high resolution melting (MS-HRM) assay technique. The resulting graphs of each run were compared with those of 0%, 50%, and 100% methylated controls. RESULTS Our data showed that the promoter methylation of SLC5A8, Ras association domain family member 1(RASSF1), and MGMT were significantly different between PTC tissue and goiter with P-value less than 0.05. The most significant differences were observed in RASSF1; 77.2% of hyper-methylated PTC patients versus 15.6% hyper-methylated goiter samples (P<0.001). CONCLUSION RASSF1 promoter methylation can be a PTC genetic marker. RASSF1 promoter methylation is under the impact of the methyltransferase genes (DNMT1 and MGMT), protein expression, and promoter methylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Khatami
- Chronic Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bagher Larijani
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ramin Heshmat
- Chronic Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shirzad Nasiri
- Department of Surgery, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Shariati Hospital, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hiva Saffar
- Department of Pathology, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Gita Shafiee
- Chronic Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Azam Mossafa
- Department of Surgery, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Shariati Hospital, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Mohammad Tavangar
- Chronic Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Pathology, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Impact of catechol-O-methyltransferase gene variants on methylation status of P16 and MGMT genes and their downregulation in colorectal cancer. Eur J Cancer Prev 2019; 28:68-75. [PMID: 30379684 DOI: 10.1097/cej.0000000000000485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Globally, colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in males and the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in females, with 1.4 million new cases and almost 694 000 deaths estimated to have occurred in 2012. The development and progression of CRC is dictated by a series of alterations in diverse genes mostly proto-oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes. In this dreadful disease disturbances different from mutations called as epigenetic regulations are also taken into consideration and are thoroughly investigated. The present study was designed to analyze the promoter hypermethylation of CpG (cytosine, followed by guanine nucleotide) islands of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 2A (P16) and O-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) genes and its subsequent effect on the protein expression in CRC. The impact of the common functional polymorphism of the catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) gene, Val158Met, on promoter hypermethylation of P16 and MGMT genes in CRC was also investigated. The study included 200 CRC cases and equal numbers of normal samples. DNA was extracted using the kit method and methylation specific-PCR was performed for analysis of the promoter hypermethylation status. Total protein was isolated form all CRC cases and western blotting was performed for P16 and MGMT proteins. The COMT Val158Met polymorphism was analyzed by a PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism assay. Epigenetic analysis showed that unlike other high-risk regions, the Kashmiri population has a different promoter hypermethylation profile of both P16 and MGMT genes, with frequent and significant promoter hypermethylation of both in CRC. The frequency of promoter hypermethylation of both genes was significantly higher in males and was insignificantly found to be higher in stage III/IV. The degree of P16 and MGMT promoter hypermethylation increased significantly with increasing severity of the lesion. We also found a significant correlation between P16 and MGMT promoter hypermethylation and loss of protein expression in CRC. A significant association was found between COMT polymorphism (homozygous variant) and P16 methylation status. Similar results were also found for MGMT hypermethylated cases.
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Khatami F, Teimoori-Toolabi L, Heshmat R, Nasiri S, Saffar H, Mohammadamoli M, Aghdam MH, Larijani B, Tavangar SM. Circulating ctDNA methylation quantification of two DNA methyl transferases in papillary thyroid carcinoma. J Cell Biochem 2019; 120:17422-17437. [PMID: 31127647 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.29007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2019] [Revised: 04/06/2019] [Accepted: 04/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) is the most common type of cancer among thyroid malignancies. Tumor-related methylation of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) in plasma could represent tumor specific alterations can be considered as good biomarkers in circulating tumor cells. In this study, we studied the methylation status of seven promoter regions of two DNA methyl Transferases (MGMT and DNMT1) genes as the methylated ctDNA in plasma and tissue samples of patients with PTC and goiter patients as noncancerous controls. METHODS Both ctDNA and tissue genomic DNA of 57 PTC and 45 Goiter samples were isolated. After bisulfite modification, the methylation status was studied by Methylation-Sensitive High Resolution Melting (MS-HRM) assay technique. Four promoter regions of O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) and three promoter regions of DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) were assessed. RESULTS From seven candidate promoter regions of two methyltrasferase coding genes, the methylation status of ctDNA within MGMT (a), MGMT (c), MGMT (d), and DNMT1 (b) were meaningfully different between PTC cases and controls. However, the most significant differences were seen in circulating ctDNA MGMT (c) which was hypermethylated in 25 (43.9 %) of patients with PTC vs 2 (4. 4 %) of goiter samples. Between two selected DNA methyl transferase, the methylation of MGMT as the maintenance methyltransferase was significantly higher in PTC cases than goiter controls (P-value < .001). The resulting areas under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve were 0.78 for MGMT (d) for PTC versus goiter samples that can represent the overall ability of MGMT (d) methylation status to discriminate between PTC and goiter patients. CONCLUSION Among seven candidate regions of ctDNA the MGMT (c) and MGMT (d) showed higher sensitivity and specificity for PTC as a suitable candidates as biomarkers of PTC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Khatami
- Chronic Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Ramin Heshmat
- Chronic Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shirzad Nasiri
- Departments of Surgery, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Shariati Hospital, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hiva Saffar
- Departments of Pathology, Dr. Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahsa Mohammadamoli
- Metabolic Disorders Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Molecular -Cellular Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Bagher Larijani
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Mohammad Tavangar
- Chronic Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Departments of Pathology, Dr. Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Fahrer J, Kaina B. Impact of DNA repair on the dose-response of colorectal cancer formation induced by dietary carcinogens. Food Chem Toxicol 2016; 106:583-594. [PMID: 27693244 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2016.09.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2016] [Revised: 09/10/2016] [Accepted: 09/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers, which is causally linked to dietary habits, notably the intake of processed and red meat. Processed and red meat contain dietary carcinogens, including heterocyclic aromatic amines (HCAs) and N-nitroso compounds (NOC). NOC are agents that induce various N-methylated DNA adducts and O6-methylguanine (O6-MeG), which are removed by base excision repair (BER) and O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT), respectively. HCAs such as the highly mutagenic 2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo[4,5-b]pyridine (PhIP) cause bulky DNA adducts, which are removed from DNA by nucleotide excision repair (NER). Both O6-MeG and HCA-induced DNA adducts are linked to the occurrence of KRAS and APC mutations in colorectal tumors of rodents and humans, thereby driving CRC initiation and progression. In this review, we focus on DNA repair pathways removing DNA lesions induced by NOC and HCA and assess their role in protecting against mutagenicity and carcinogenicity in the large intestine. We further discuss the impact of DNA repair on the dose-response relationship in colorectal carcinogenesis in view of recent studies, demonstrating the existence of 'no effect' point of departures (PoDs), i.e. thresholds for genotoxicity and carcinogenicity. The available data support the threshold concept for NOC with DNA repair being causally involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jörg Fahrer
- Department of Toxicology, University Medical Center Mainz, Obere Zahlbacher Strasse 67, D-55131 Mainz, Germany.
| | - Bernd Kaina
- Department of Toxicology, University Medical Center Mainz, Obere Zahlbacher Strasse 67, D-55131 Mainz, Germany.
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Yang P, Zhang W, Wang Y, Peng X, Chen B, Qiu X, Li G, Li S, Wu C, Yao K, Li W, Yan W, Li J, You Y, Chen CC, Jiang T. IDH mutation and MGMT promoter methylation in glioblastoma: results of a prospective registry. Oncotarget 2016; 6:40896-906. [PMID: 26503470 PMCID: PMC4747376 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.5683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2015] [Accepted: 09/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The relative contribution of isocitrate dehydrogenase mutations (mIDH) and O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase promoter methylation (methMGMT) as biomarkers in glioblastoma remain poorly understood. Methods We investigated the association between methMGMT and mIDH with progression free survival and overall survival in a prospectively collected molecular registry of 274 glioblastoma patients. Results For glioblastoma patients who underwent Temozolomide and Radiation Therapy, OS and PFS was most favorable for those with tumors harboring both mIDH and methMGMT (median OS: 35.8 mo, median PFS: 27.5 mo); patients afflicted glioblastomas with either mIDH or methMGMT exhibited intermediate OS and PFS (mOS: 36 and 17.1 mo; mPFS: 12.2 mo and 9.9 mo, respectively); poorest OS and PFS was observed in wild type IDH1 (wtIDH1) glioblastomas that were MGMT promoter unmethylated (mOS: 15 mo, mPFS: 9.7 mo). For patients with wtIDH glioblastomas, TMZ+RT was associated with improved OS and PFS relative to patients treated with RT (OS: 15.4 mo v 9.6 mo, p < 0.001; PFS: 9.9 mo v 6.5 mo, p < 0.001). While TMZ+RT and RT treated mIDH patients exhibited improved overall survival relative to those with wtIDH, there were no differences between the TMZ+RT or RT group. These results suggest that mIDH1 conferred resistance to TMZ. Supporting this hypothesis, exogenous expression of mIDH1 in independent astrocytoma/glioblastoma lines resulted in a 3–10 fold increase in TMZ resistance after long-term passage. Conclusion Our study demonstrates IDH mutation and MGMT promoter methylation status independently associate with favorable outcome in TMZ+RT treated glioblastoma patients. However, these biomarkers differentially impact clinical TMZ response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Yang
- Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yinyan Wang
- Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoxia Peng
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Baoshi Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoguang Qiu
- Department of Radiation Therapy, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Guilin Li
- Department of Neuropathology, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Shouwei Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Sanbo Brain Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Chenxing Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Sanbo Brain Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Kun Yao
- Department of Pathology, Beijing Sanbo Brain Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wenbin Li
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Yan
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jie Li
- Center for Theoretic and Applied Neuro-Oncology, Division of Neurosurgery, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Yongping You
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Clark C Chen
- Center for Theoretic and Applied Neuro-Oncology, Division of Neurosurgery, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Tao Jiang
- Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, China
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MGMT methylation assessment in glioblastoma: MS-MLPA versus human methylation 450K beadchip array and immunohistochemistry. Clin Transl Oncol 2015; 18:391-7. [PMID: 26289551 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-015-1381-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2015] [Accepted: 08/05/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The MGMT gene encodes a DNA repair enzyme that counteracts with chemotherapy efficiency, specifically with alkylating agents such as temozolomide (TMZ). It is well established that MGMT methylation should be screened as a predictive marker for TMZ in glioblastoma, and we thus aimed to determine a reliable and practical diagnostic method of MGMT methylation detection. PATIENTS AND METHODS 55 glioblastomas were investigated for MGMT methylation status using methylation-specific multiplexed ligation probe amplification (MS-MLPA), illumina human methylation 450K BeadChip array (HM450 K) analysis, and compared to MGMT protein expression by immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining. The methylation status of promoter, intron and all MGMT CpG targeted sites were separately correlated to patient's survival. RESULTS In addition to MS-MLPA and 450 K concordance, our results showed significantly higher overall survival (OS) of patients receiving TMZ and presenting MGMT methylated promoter (mean OS = 21.5 months, p = 0.046). Including all glioblastoma cases and regardless of chemotherapy, MS-MLPA showed significant survival difference between MGMT methylated and unmethylated cases (mean OS = 13, p = 0.021). CONCLUSION We concluded that in glioblastoma, MGMT promoter methylation predicts TMZ sensitivity. This current comparative analysis leads to consider that MS-MLPA is a valuable as HM450 K array for MGMT methylation status screening.
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MGMT promoter methylation and glioblastoma: a comparison of analytical methods and of tumor specimens. Int J Biol Markers 2015; 30:e208-16. [PMID: 25588856 DOI: 10.5301/jbm.5000126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
It is already well known that hypermethylation of the O6-methylguanine DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) gene promoter is a predictive biomarker of response to temozolomide treatment and of favorable outcomes in terms of overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) in glioblastoma (GBM) patients. Nevertheless, MGMT methylation status has not currently been introduced into routine clinical practice, as the choice of the ideal technique and tissue sample specimen is still controversial. The aim of this study was to compare 2 analytical methods, methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction (MSP) and pyrosequencing (PSQ), and their use on 2 different tissue type samples, snap-frozen and formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE), obtained from a single-center and uniformly treated cohort of 46 GBM patients. We obtained methylation data from all frozen tissues, while no results were obtained for 5 FFPE samples. The highest concordance for methylation was found on frozen tissues (88.5%, 23/26 samples), using PSQ (76.7%, 23/30 samples). Moreover, we confirmed that OS and PFS for patients carrying methylation of the MGMT promoter were longer than for patients with an unmethylated promoter. In conclusion, we considered MSP a limited technique for FFPE tissues due to the high risk of false-positive results; in contrast, our data indicated PSQ as the most powerful method to stratify methylated/unmethylated patients as it allows reaching quantitative results with high sensitivity and specificity. Furthermore, frozen tumor tissues were shown to be the best specimens for MGMT methylation analysis, due to the low DNA degradation and homogeneity in methylation throughout the tumor.
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Kushwaha D, Ramakrishnan V, Ng K, Steed T, Nguyen T, Futalan D, Akers JC, Sarkaria J, Jiang T, Chowdhury D, Carter BS, Chen CC. A genome-wide miRNA screen revealed miR-603 as a MGMT-regulating miRNA in glioblastomas. Oncotarget 2015; 5:4026-39. [PMID: 24994119 PMCID: PMC4147303 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.1974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
MGMT expression is a critical determinant for therapeutic resistance to DNA alkylating agents. We previously demonstrated that MGMT expression is post-transcriptionally regulated by miR-181d and other miRNAs. Here, we performed a genome-wide screen to identify MGMT regulating miRNAs. Candidate miRNAs were further tested for inverse correlation with MGMT expression in clinical specimens. We identified 15 candidate miRNAs and characterized the top candidate, miR-603. Transfection of miR-603 suppressed MGMT mRNA/protein expression in vitro and in vivo; this effect was reversed by transfection with antimiR-603. miR-603 affinity-precipitated with MGMT mRNA and suppressed luciferase activity in an MGMT-3'UTR-luciferase assay, suggesting direct interaction between miR-603 and MGMT 3'UTR. miR-603 transfection enhanced the temozolomide (TMZ) sensitivity of MGMT-expressing glioblastoma cell lines. Importantly, miR-603 mediated MGMT suppression and TMZ resistance were reversed by expression of an MGMT cDNA. In a collection of 74 clinical glioblastoma specimens, both miR-603 and miR-181d levels inversely correlated with MGMT expression. Moreover, a combined index of the two miRNAs better reflected MGMT expression than each individually. These results suggest that MGMT is co-regulated by independent miRNAs. Characterization of these miRNAs should contribute toward strategies for enhancing the efficacy of DNA alkylating agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepa Kushwaha
- Dept. of Radiation Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA; These authors contributed equally as first authors
| | - Valya Ramakrishnan
- Center for Theoretical and Applied Neuro-Oncology, Moores Cancer Center, Division of Neurosurgery, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA. These authors contributed equally as first authors
| | - Kimberly Ng
- Dept. of Radiation Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
| | - Tyler Steed
- Center for Theoretical and Applied Neuro-Oncology, Moores Cancer Center, Division of Neurosurgery, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA
| | - Thien Nguyen
- Center for Theoretical and Applied Neuro-Oncology, Moores Cancer Center, Division of Neurosurgery, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA
| | - Diahnn Futalan
- Center for Theoretical and Applied Neuro-Oncology, Moores Cancer Center, Division of Neurosurgery, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA
| | - Johnny C Akers
- Center for Theoretical and Applied Neuro-Oncology, Moores Cancer Center, Division of Neurosurgery, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA
| | - Jann Sarkaria
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Radiation Oncology, Rochester, MN
| | - Tao Jiang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tiantan Medical Center, Beijing, China
| | | | - Bob S Carter
- Center for Theoretical and Applied Neuro-Oncology, Moores Cancer Center, Division of Neurosurgery, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA
| | - Clark C Chen
- Center for Theoretical and Applied Neuro-Oncology, Moores Cancer Center, Division of Neurosurgery, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA
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Larijani L, Madjd Z, Samadikuchaksaraei A, Younespour S, Zham H, Rakhshan A, Mohammadi F, Rahbari A, Moradi A. Methylation of O6-methyl guanine methyltransferase gene promoter in meningiomas--comparison between tumor grades I, II, and III. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2014; 15:33-8. [PMID: 24528051 DOI: 10.7314/apjcp.2014.15.1.33] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Meningiomas are the second most common primary intracranial tumors after gliomas. Epigenetic biomarkers such as DNA methylation, which is found in many tumors and is thus important in tumorigenesis can help diagnose meningiomas and predict response to adjuvant chemotherapy. We investigated aberrant O6- methyl guanine methyltransferase (MGMT) methylation in meningiomas. MATERIALS AND METHODS Sixty-one patients were classified according to the WHO grading, and MGMT promoter methylation status was examined via the methylation-Specific PCR(MSP) method. RESULTS MGMT promoter methylation was found in 22.2% of grade I, 35% of grade I with atypical features, 36% of grade II, and 42.9% of grade III tumors. CONCLUSIONS There was an increase, albeit not statistically significant, in MGMT methylation with a rise in the tumor grade. Higher methylation levels were also observed in the male gender.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Larijani
- Department of Biology, School of Basic Sciences, Science and Research Branch Islamic Azad University (IAU), Tehran, Iran E-mail :
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Apoptosis and molecular targeting therapy in cancer. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:150845. [PMID: 25013758 PMCID: PMC4075070 DOI: 10.1155/2014/150845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 718] [Impact Index Per Article: 71.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2014] [Accepted: 05/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Apoptosis is the programmed cell death which maintains the healthy survival/death balance in metazoan cells. Defect in apoptosis can cause cancer or autoimmunity, while enhanced apoptosis may cause degenerative diseases. The apoptotic signals contribute into safeguarding the genomic integrity while defective apoptosis may promote carcinogenesis. The apoptotic signals are complicated and they are regulated at several levels. The signals of carcinogenesis modulate the central control points of the apoptotic pathways, including inhibitor of apoptosis (IAP) proteins and FLICE-inhibitory protein (c-FLIP). The tumor cells may use some of several molecular mechanisms to suppress apoptosis and acquire resistance to apoptotic agents, for example, by the expression of antiapoptotic proteins such as Bcl-2 or by the downregulation or mutation of proapoptotic proteins such as BAX. In this review, we provide the main regulatory molecules that govern the main basic mechanisms, extrinsic and intrinsic, of apoptosis in normal cells. We discuss how carcinogenesis could be developed via defective apoptotic pathways or their convergence. We listed some molecules which could be targeted to stimulate apoptosis in different cancers. Together, we briefly discuss the development of some promising cancer treatment strategies which target apoptotic inhibitors including Bcl-2 family proteins, IAPs, and c-FLIP for apoptosis induction.
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Abstract
DNA damage response genes play vital roles in the maintenance of a healthy genome. Defects in cell cycle checkpoint and DNA repair genes, especially mutation or aberrant downregulation, are associated with a wide spectrum of human disease, including a predisposition to the development of neurodegenerative conditions and cancer. On the other hand, upregulation of DNA damage response and repair genes can also cause cancer, as well as increase resistance of cancer cells to DNA damaging therapy. In recent years, it has become evident that many of the genes involved in DNA damage repair have additional roles in tumorigenesis, most prominently by acting as transcriptional (co-)factors. Although defects in these genes are causally connected to tumor initiation, their role in tumor progression is more controversial and it seems to depend on tumor type. In some tumors like melanoma, cell cycle checkpoint/DNA repair gene upregulation is associated with tumor metastasis, whereas in a number of other cancers the opposite has been observed. Several genes that participate in the DNA damage response, such as RAD9, PARP1, BRCA1, ATM and TP53 have been associated with metastasis by a number of in vitro biochemical and cellular assays, by examining human tumor specimens by immunohistochemistry or by DNA genome-wide gene expression profiling. Many of these genes act as transcriptional effectors to regulate other genes implicated in the pathogenesis of cancer. Furthermore, they are aberrantly expressed in numerous human tumors and are causally related to tumorigenesis. However, whether the DNA damage repair function of these genes is required to promote metastasis or another activity is responsible (e.g., transcription control) has not been determined. Importantly, despite some compelling in vitro evidence, investigations are still needed to demonstrate the role of cell cycle checkpoint and DNA repair genes in regulating metastatic phenotypes in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constantinos G. Broustas
- Center for Radiological Research, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York 10032
| | - Howard B. Lieberman
- Center for Radiological Research, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York 10032
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York 10032
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Fahrer J, Kaina B. O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase in the defense against N-nitroso compounds and colorectal cancer. Carcinogenesis 2013; 34:2435-42. [PMID: 23929436 DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgt275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is among the leading causes of cancer death worldwide, involving multiple dietary and non-dietary risk factors. A growing body of evidence suggests that N-nitroso compounds (NOC) play a pivotal role in the etiology of CRC. NOC are present in food and are also formed endogenously in the large intestine. Upon metabolic activation and also spontaneously, they form electrophilic species that methylate the DNA, producing N-methylated purines and O(6)-methylguanine, the latter of which bears high mutagenic and carcinogenic potential. Methylated DNA bases are removed by base excision repair initiated by the alkyladenine-DNA glycosylase, the family of AlkB homologs proteins, and the suicide enzyme O(6)-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT), which is the main focus of this review. We present animal models with a deficiency of MGMT that display a tremendously enhanced sensitivity toward alkylation-induced colorectal carcinogenesis, highlighting its role in the protection against the cytotoxic and mutagenic effects of alkylating agents. In line with these studies, MGMT was linked to the formation of human sporadic CRC. Colorectal tumors and precursor lesions frequently display epigenetic inactivation of MGMT resulting from promoter hypermethylation, which is tightly associated with the occurrence of G:C to A:T transition mutations in the KRAS oncogene. We also discuss clinical data, which identified the MGMT status of CRC patients as promising parameter for the treatment of metastasized CRC using alkylating anticancer drugs such as temozolomide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jörg Fahrer
- Department of Toxicology, University Medical Center Mainz, Obere Zahlbacher Strasse 67, D-55131 Mainz, Germany
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17
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Ramalho-Carvalho J, Pires M, Lisboa S, Graça I, Rocha P, Barros-Silva JD, Savva-Bordalo J, Maurício J, Resende M, Teixeira MR, Honavar M, Henrique R, Jerónimo C. Altered expression of MGMT in high-grade gliomas results from the combined effect of epigenetic and genetic aberrations. PLoS One 2013; 8:e58206. [PMID: 23505468 PMCID: PMC3594314 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0058206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2012] [Accepted: 01/31/2013] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
MGMT downregulation in high-grade gliomas (HGG) has been mostly attributed to aberrant promoter methylation and is associated with increased sensitivity to alkylating agent-based chemotherapy. However, HGG harboring 10q deletions also benefit from treatment with alkylating agents. Because the MGMT gene is mapped at 10q26, we hypothesized that both epigenetic and genetic alterations might affect its expression and predict response to chemotherapy. To test this hypothesis, promoter methylation and mRNA levels of MGMT were determined by quantitative methylation-specific PCR (qMSP) or methylation-specific multiplex ligation dependent probe amplification (MS-MLPA) and quantitative RT-PCR, respectively, in a retrospective series of 61 HGG. MGMT/chromosome 10 copy number variations were determined by FISH or MS-MLPA analysis. Molecular findings were correlated with clinical parameters to assess their predictive value. Overall, MGMT methylation ratios assessed by qMSP and MS-MLPA were inversely correlated with mRNA expression levels (best coefficient value obtained with MS-MLPA). By FISH analysis in 68.3% of the cases there was loss of 10q26.1 and in 15% of the cases polysomy was demonstrated; the latter displayed the highest levels of transcript. When genetic and epigenetic data were combined, cases with MGMT promoter methylation and MGMT loss depicted the lowest transcript levels, although an impact in response to alkylating agent chemotherapy was not apparent. Cooperation between epigenetic (promoter methylation) and genetic (monosomy, locus deletion) changes affecting MGMT in HGG is required for effective MGMT silencing. Hence, evaluation of copy number alterations might add relevant prognostic and predictive information concerning response to alkylating agent-based chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Ramalho-Carvalho
- Cancer Epigenetics Group, Research Center of the Portuguese Oncology Institute-Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Genetics, Portuguese Oncology Institute-Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Malini Pires
- Cancer Epigenetics Group, Research Center of the Portuguese Oncology Institute-Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Genetics, Portuguese Oncology Institute-Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Susana Lisboa
- Department of Genetics, Portuguese Oncology Institute-Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Inês Graça
- Cancer Epigenetics Group, Research Center of the Portuguese Oncology Institute-Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Genetics, Portuguese Oncology Institute-Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Patrícia Rocha
- Department of Genetics, Portuguese Oncology Institute-Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - João Diogo Barros-Silva
- Cancer Genetics Group, Research Center of the Portuguese Oncology Institute-Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Genetics, Portuguese Oncology Institute-Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Joana Savva-Bordalo
- Cancer Epigenetics Group, Research Center of the Portuguese Oncology Institute-Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Medical Oncology, Portuguese Oncology Institute-Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Joaquina Maurício
- Department of Medical Oncology, Portuguese Oncology Institute-Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Mário Resende
- Department of Neurosurgery, Local Health Unit of Matosinhos - Hospital Pedro Hispano, Matosinhos, Portugal
| | - Manuel R. Teixeira
- Cancer Genetics Group, Research Center of the Portuguese Oncology Institute-Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Genetics, Portuguese Oncology Institute-Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Mrinalini Honavar
- Department of Pathology, Local Health Unit of Matosinhos - Hospital Pedro Hispano, Matosinhos, Portugal
| | - Rui Henrique
- Cancer Epigenetics Group, Research Center of the Portuguese Oncology Institute-Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute-Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Carmen Jerónimo
- Cancer Epigenetics Group, Research Center of the Portuguese Oncology Institute-Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Genetics, Portuguese Oncology Institute-Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- * E-mail:
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Altamura G, Strazzullo M, Corteggio A, Francioso R, Roperto F, D'Esposito M, Borzacchiello G. O(6)-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase in equine sarcoids: molecular and epigenetic analysis. BMC Vet Res 2012; 8:218. [PMID: 23140380 PMCID: PMC3512464 DOI: 10.1186/1746-6148-8-218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2012] [Accepted: 11/06/2012] [Indexed: 05/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Bovine papillomaviruses (BPVs) types 1 and 2 are the only known papillomaviruses able to jump the species. In fact, BPVs 1/2 induce neoplasia in their natural bovine host but infection is also associated to neoplastic skin lesions in equids termed sarcoids. The equine sarcoid is considered to be the most common equine cutaneous tumour worldwide for which no effective therapy is available. Very little is known about the molecular mechanisms underlying tumourigenesis, although genes contributing to sarcoid development have been identified. Several studies associate the development of cancer to the loss of function of a number of oncosuppressor genes. In this study the putative role of O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltrasferase (MGMT) was investigated for sarcoids. The expression of the oncosuppressor protein was assessed in normal and sarcoid cells and tissues. In addition, the DNA methylation profile was analysed to assess the role of epigenetic mechanism in regulation of MGMT expression. Results A group of 15 equine sarcoids and two primary sarcoid cell lines (fibroblasts) were analyzed for the expression of MGMT protein by immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and Western blotting techniques. The sarcoid cell line EqSO4b and the tumour samples showed a reduction or absence of MGMT expression. To investigate the causes of deregulated MGMT expression, ten samples were analyzed for the DNA methylation profile of the CpG island associated to the MGMT promoter. The analysis of 73 CpGs encompassing the region of interest showed in 1 out of 10 (10%) sarcoids a pronouncedly altered methylation profile when compared to the control epidermal sample. Similarily the EqSO4b cell line showed an altered MGMT methylation pattern in comparison to normal fibroblasts. Conclusion As previously demonstrated for the oncosuppressor gene FHIT, analysis of MGMT expression in sarcoid tissues and a sarcoid-derived fibroblast cell line further suggests that oncosuppressor silencing may be also involved in BPV-induced equine tumours. Abnormal DNA methylation seems to be one of the possible molecular mechanisms involved in the alteration of MGMT expression. Further studies are required to address other basic molecular mechanisms involved in reduced MGMT expression. This study underlines the possible role of DNA methylation in oncosuppressor inactivation in equine sarcoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gennaro Altamura
- Department of Pathology and Animal health, University of Naples Federico II, Via Veterinaria, 1-80137, Napoli, Italy
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Bujko M, Kowalewska M, Danska-Bidzinska A, Bakula-Zalewska E, Siedecki JA, Bidzinski M. The promoter methylation and expression of the O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase gene in uterine sarcoma and carcinosarcoma. Oncol Lett 2012; 4:551-555. [PMID: 22970054 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2012.771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2012] [Accepted: 06/08/2012] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) gene promoter hypermethylation is observed in a number of solid tumors and is correlated with the silencing of MGMT expression. In glioblastoma patients treated with the alkylating agent temozolomide, MGMT gene methylation status was shown to have predictive value in terms of prolonged overall survival. Recently, temozolomide has demonstrated promising activity in the treatment of soft tissue sarcomas, including those of the uterus. The tissue specimens involving tumor samples and normal uterine fragments were obtained from nine patients with smooth muscle uterine sarcoma, 11 with stromal uterine sarcoma and 17 with mixed uterine tumors. MGMT gene promoter methylation was analyzed by combined bisulfite restriction analysis (COBRA) while its expression levels were assessed using the real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). MGMT promoter methylation was observed in 27% of all tumor samples analyzed. When stratified by the disease type, 55.5% (5/9) of smooth muscle sarcomas, 23.5% (4/17) of mixed uterine tumor tissues and 9% (1/11) of stromal sarcomas showed MGMT methylation. The MGMT promoter methylation was associated with lower levels of gene expression in tumors when compared with those with an unmethylated promoter (P=0.0232) or normal tissues (P=0.0141). To conclude, MGMT promoter methylation and downregulation of gene expression is observed in a fraction of carcinosarcomas and non-epithelial malignant tumors of corpus uteri. The assessment of MGMT promoter methylation status may potentially identify patients who would benefit from temozolomide treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mateusz Bujko
- Department of Molecular Biology, Maria Sklodowska-Curie Memorial Cancer Centre and Institute of Oncology, 02-781 Warsaw, Poland
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Christmann M, Verbeek B, Roos WP, Kaina B. O(6)-Methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) in normal tissues and tumors: enzyme activity, promoter methylation and immunohistochemistry. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2011; 1816:179-90. [PMID: 21745538 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2011.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2011] [Revised: 06/22/2011] [Accepted: 06/24/2011] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
O(6)-Methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) is a suicide enzyme that repairs the pre-mutagenic, pre-carcinogenic and pre-toxic DNA damage O(6)-methylguanine. It also repairs larger adducts on the O(6)-position of guanine, such as O(6)-[4-oxo-4-(3-pyridyl)butyl]guanine and O(6)-chloroethylguanine. These adducts are formed in response to alkylating environmental pollutants, tobacco-specific carcinogens and methylating (procarbazine, dacarbazine, streptozotocine, and temozolomide) as well as chloroethylating (lomustine, nimustine, carmustine, and fotemustine) anticancer drugs. MGMT is therefore a key node in the defense against commonly found carcinogens, and a marker of resistance of normal and cancer cells exposed to alkylating therapeutics. MGMT also likely protects against therapy-related tumor formation caused by these highly mutagenic drugs. Since the amount of MGMT determines the level of repair of toxic DNA alkylation adducts, the MGMT expression level provides important information as to cancer susceptibility and the success of therapy. In this article, we describe the methods employed for detecting MGMT and review the literature with special focus on MGMT activity in normal and neoplastic tissues. The available data show that the expression of MGMT varies greatly in normal tissues and in some cases this has been related to cancer predisposition. MGMT silencing in tumors is mainly regulated epigenetically and in brain tumors this correlates with a better therapeutic response. Conversely, up-regulation of MGMT during cancer treatment limits the therapeutic response. In malignant melanoma, MGMT is not related to the therapeutic response, which is due to other mechanisms of inherent drug resistance. For most cancers, studies that relate MGMT activity to therapeutic outcome following O(6)-alkylating drugs are still lacking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Christmann
- Insitute of Toxicology, University Medical Center Mainz, Obere Zahlbacher Str. 67, D-55131 Mainz, Germany
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Abstract
'Every Hour Hurts, The Last One Kills'. That is an old saying about getting old. Every day, thousands of DNA damaging events take place in each cell of our body, but efficient DNA repair systems have evolved to prevent that. However, our DNA repair system and that of most other organisms are not as perfect as that of Deinococcus radiodurans, for example, which is able to repair massive amounts of DNA damage at one time. In many instances, accumulation of DNA damage has been linked to cancer, and genetic deficiencies in specific DNA repair genes are associated with tumor-prone phenotypes. In addition to mutations, which can be either inherited or somatically acquired, epigenetic silencing of DNA repair genes may promote tumorigenesis. This review will summarize current knowledge of the epigenetic inactivation of different DNA repair components in human cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph Lahtz
- Department of Cancer Biology, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
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Brell M, Ibáñez J, Tortosa A. O6-Methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase protein expression by immunohistochemistry in brain and non-brain systemic tumours: systematic review and meta-analysis of correlation with methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction. BMC Cancer 2011; 11:35. [PMID: 21269507 PMCID: PMC3039628 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2407-11-35] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2010] [Accepted: 01/26/2011] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The DNA repair protein O6-Methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) confers resistance to alkylating agents. Several methods have been applied to its analysis, with methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction (MSP) the most commonly used for promoter methylation study, while immunohistochemistry (IHC) has become the most frequently used for the detection of MGMT protein expression. Agreement on the best and most reliable technique for evaluating MGMT status remains unsettled. The aim of this study was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of the correlation between IHC and MSP. Methods A computer-aided search of MEDLINE (1950-October 2009), EBSCO (1966-October 2009) and EMBASE (1974-October 2009) was performed for relevant publications. Studies meeting inclusion criteria were those comparing MGMT protein expression by IHC with MGMT promoter methylation by MSP in the same cohort of patients. Methodological quality was assessed by using the QUADAS and STARD instruments. Previously published guidelines were followed for meta-analysis performance. Results Of 254 studies identified as eligible for full-text review, 52 (20.5%) met the inclusion criteria. The review showed that results of MGMT protein expression by IHC are not in close agreement with those obtained with MSP. Moreover, type of tumour (primary brain tumour vs others) was an independent covariate of accuracy estimates in the meta-regression analysis beyond the cut-off value. Conclusions Protein expression assessed by IHC alone fails to reflect the promoter methylation status of MGMT. Thus, in attempts at clinical diagnosis the two methods seem to select different groups of patients and should not be used interchangeably.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Brell
- Department of Neurosurgery, Son Dureta University Hospital, Palma de Mallorca, Spain.
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Billson HA, Harrison KL, Lees NP, Hall CN, Margison GP, Povey AC. Dietary variables associated with DNA N7-methylguanine levels and O6-alkylguanine DNA-alkyltransferase activity in human colorectal mucosa. Carcinogenesis 2009; 30:615-20. [PMID: 19168588 DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgp020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Components of human diets may influence the incidence of colorectal adenomas, by modifying exposure or susceptibility to DNA-damaging alkylating agents. To examine this hypothesis, a food frequency questionnaire was used to assess the diet of patients recruited for a case-referent study where biopsies of normal colorectal mucosa were collected during colonoscopy and subsequently analysed for DNA N7-methylguanine (N7-MeG) levels, as an indicator of exposure, and activity of the DNA repair protein O6-alkylguanine DNA-alkyltransferase (MGMT), as an indicator of potential susceptibility. Cases with histologically proven colorectal adenomas (n = 38) were compared with referents (n = 35) free of gastrointestinal neoplasia. The case group consumed significantly more red meat (4.5 versus 3.4 servings/week, P < 0.05), processed meats, (4.7 versus 3.2 servings/week, P < 0.05) and % food energy as fat (34.9 versus 30.7%, P < 0.001). N7-MeG [mean: 95% confidence interval (CI)] levels were significantly lower in the group that consumed the highest proportion of dietary fibre/1000 kcal in comparison with the group with the lowest intake (0.61; 0.35-0.86 versus 1.88; 0.88-2.64 micromol/mol dG, P < 0.05). N7-MeG levels were also inversely associated with folate consumption (P < 0.05). MGMT activity (mean; 95% CI) was significantly higher in the group with the lowest consumption of vegetables than in the group with the greatest vegetable consumption (7.02; 5.70-8.33 versus 4.93; 3.95-5.91 fmol/microg DNA, P < 0.05). Our results are consistent with the hypothesis that dietary factors may modify exposure or susceptibility, respectively, to DNA damage by alkylating agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- H A Billson
- Occupational and Environmental Health Research Group, School of Translational Medicine, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
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Kuester D, El-Rifai W, Peng D, Ruemmele P, Kroeckel I, Peters B, Moskaluk CA, Stolte M, Mönkemüller K, Meyer F, Schulz HU, Hartmann A, Roessner A, Schneider-Stock R. Silencing of MGMT expression by promoter hypermethylation in the metaplasia-dysplasia-carcinoma sequence of Barrett's esophagus. Cancer Lett 2008; 275:117-26. [PMID: 19027227 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2008.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2008] [Revised: 09/21/2008] [Accepted: 10/09/2008] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
To determine the relevance of MGMT in Barrett's carcinogenesis, we analyzed promotor hypermethylation and expression of MGMT in Barrett's adenocarcinomas and its paired precursor lesions from 133 patients using a methylation-specific PCR, real-time RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry. Hypermethylation was detected in 78.9% of esophageal adenocarcinomas, in 100% of Barrett's intraepithelial neoplasia, in 88.9% of Barrett's metaplasia, but only in 21.4% of normal esophageal mucosa samples (P<0.001) and correlated significantly with downregulation of MGMT transcripts (P=0.048) and protein expression (P=0.02). Decrease of protein expression was significantly correlated with progressed stage of disease, lymph node invasion and tumor size. We conclude, that aberrant promoter methylation of MGMT is a frequent and early event during tumorigenesis of Barrett's esophagus. High prevalence of MGMT hypermethylation may represent a candidate marker for improved diagnosis and targeted therapy in Barrett's adenocarcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doerthe Kuester
- Department of Pathology, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Germany
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Evaluation of MGMT promoter methylation status and correlation with temozolomide response in orthotopic glioblastoma xenograft model. J Neurooncol 2008; 92:23-31. [PMID: 19011762 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-008-9737-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2008] [Accepted: 11/03/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
CpG methylation within the O6-methylguanine-DNA-methyltransferase (MGMT) promoter is associated with enhanced survival of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) patients treated with temozolomide (TMZ). Although MGMT promoter is methylated in approximately 50% of GBM, several studies have reported a lack of correlation between MGMT methylation and protein expression levels and consequently inaccurate discrimination of TMZ sensitive and resistant patients. To understand the limitations of currently used assays, TMZ responsiveness of 13 GBM xenograft lines was correlated with MGMT protein expression and MGMT promoter methylation determined by (1) standard methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction (MS-PCR), (2) quantitative MS-PCR (qMS-PCR), and (3) bisulfite sequencing. For each xenograft line, mice with established intracranial xenografts were treated with vehicle control or TMZ (66 mg/kgx5 days), and TMZ response was defined as relative prolongation in median survival for TMZ-treated versus control-treated mice. The relative survival benefit with TMZ was inversely related to MGMT protein expression (r=-0.75; P=0.003) and directly correlated with qMS-PCR (r=0.72; P=0.006). There was a direct correlation between MGMT methylation signal by qMS-PCR and the number of methylated CpG sites within the region amplified by MS-PCR (r=0.78, P=0.002). However, bisulfite sequencing revealed heterogeneity in the extent of CpG methylation in those tumors with a robust qMS-PCR signal. Three of the 4 GBM lines with a qMS-PCR signal greater than 10% had at least 1 unmethylated CpG site, while only one line was fully methylated at all 12 CpG sites. These data highlight one potential limitation of the evaluation of MGMT methylation by MS-PCR assay and suggest that more detailed evaluation of methylation at individual CpG sites relative to TMZ response may be worth pursuing.
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Rimel BJ, Huettner P, Powell MA, Mutch DG, Goodfellow PJ. Absence of MGMT promoter methylation in endometrial cancer. Gynecol Oncol 2008; 112:224-8. [PMID: 18973931 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2008.08.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2008] [Revised: 08/29/2008] [Accepted: 08/29/2008] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE O(6)-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) acts to repair DNA damaged by alkylation of guanine residues. MGMT promoter methylation and gene silencing is seen in a variety of cancers and pre-cancerous changes [Ogino S, Meyerhardt JA, Kawasaki T, et al. CpG island methylation, response to combination chemotherapy, and patient survival in advanced microsatellite stable colorectal carcinoma. Virchows Arch 2007;450:529-37; Rodriguez MJ, Acha A, Ruesga MT, Rodriguez C, Rivera JM, Aguirre JM. Loss of expression of DNA repair enzyme MGMT in oral leukoplakia and early oral squamous cell carcinoma. A prognostic tool? Cancer Lett 2007;245:263-8; Ishii T, Murakami J, Notohara K, et al. Oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma may develop within a background of accumulating DNA methylation in normal and dysplastic mucosa. Gut 2007;56:13-9]. The loss of MGMT activity and promoter methylation is associated with increased sensitivity to alkylating agents and is a favorable prognostic indicator in gliomas [Weaver KD, Grossman SA, Herman JG. Methylated tumor-specific DNA as a plasma biomarker in patients with glioma. Cancer Invest 2006;24:35-40; Esteller M, Garcia-Foncillas J, Andion E, et al. Inactivation of the DNA-repair gene MGMT and the clinical response of gliomas to alkylating agents. N Engl J Med 2000;343:1350-4; Hegi ME, Diserens AC, Gorlia T, et al. MGMT gene silencing and benefit from temozolomide in glioblastoma. N Engl J Med 2005;352:997-1003]. We sought to determine if MGMT promoter methylation plays a role in endometrial cancer. METHODS One hundred and twenty primary endometrial cancers were analyzed for MGMT promoter methylation by combined bisulfite restriction analysis (COBRA). The cohort included 77 endometrioid endometrial cancers, 43 endometrial tumors of adverse histologic type, and 6 endometrial cancer cell lines. Twenty-one endometrioid and mixed endometrioid ovarian cancers were also analyzed. A subset of the primary tumors was analyzed for MGMT expression by immunohistochemistry. RESULTS No MGMT promoter methylation was seen in the 120 endometrial cancers evaluated or the 6 endometrial cancer cell lines. One of the 21 endometrioid ovarian cancers showed methylation. Immunohistochemistry revealed moderate to high level expression of MGMT in the primary endometrial tumors. CONCLUSION MGMT promoter methylation is an infrequent event in endometrial cancer. MGMT expression and the ability to repair damaged alkylguanine residues could in part explain the limited response of endometrial tumors to alkylating chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- B J Rimel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, USA.
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Ma LC, Kuo CC, Liu JF, Chen LT, Chang JY. Transcriptional repression of O6-methylguanine DNA methyltransferase gene rendering cells hypersensitive to N,N'-bis(2-chloroethyl)-N-nitrosurea in camptothecin-resistant cells. Mol Pharmacol 2008; 74:517-26. [PMID: 18492797 DOI: 10.1124/mol.107.043620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
O(6)-Methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) is a DNA repair protein that removes alkyl-adducts from the O(6)-guanine in DNA and is a crucial defense against O(6)-alkylating agent-induced cytotoxicity. We demonstrated here that two camptothecin (CPT)-resistant cell lines (CPT30 and KB100) were more sensitive to N,N'-bis(2-chloroethyl)-N-nitrosurea (BCNU) than their parental cells. Enhanced sensitivity to BCNU in these two CPT-resistant cells involved transcriptional repression of the MGMT gene. The mechanism of MGMT gene down-regulation in CPT-resistant cells was not through gene abnormality, mRNA stability, and CpG island hypermethylation. However, the high level of methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2) and dimethylation of H3K9 in the promoter region were found in CPT30 and KB100 cells. Furthermore, increased MeCP2 binding on MGMT promoter was also found to be correlated with MGMT gene-silencing in short-term CPT treatment; thus, enhanced BCNU sensitivity was found in CPT-treated cells. Taken together, we suggest that CPT is able to suppress the transcription of the MGMT gene through recruiting of MeCP2 and H3K9 dimethylation, thus causing a synergistic interaction with BCNU. These findings provide a possible explanation regarding why the combination of CPT and BCNU results in a better objective response than single-use alone. In addition, this study supports a new indication for treating patients who are receiving refractory CPT derivatives with BCNU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Chen Ma
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, 2F, 367, Sheng Li Road, Tainan 704, Taiwan, Republic of China
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Abstract
Alkylation of DNA at the O(6)-position of guanine is one of the most critical events leading to mutation, cancer, and cell death. O(6)-alkylguanine-DNA alkyltransferase (AGT), also known as O(6)-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT), is the DNA repair protein responsible for removing alkylation adducts from the O(6)-position of guanine in DNA. The promoter CpG island hypermethylation-associated gene silencing of MGMT is associated with a wide spectrum of human tumors. This epigenetic inactivation of MGMT has two main consequences in human cancer. First, it uncovers a new mutator pathway that causes the accumulation of G-to-A transition mutations that can affect genes required for genomic stability. Second, there is a strong and significant positive correlation between MGMT promoter hypermethylation and increased tumor sensitivity to alkylating drugs. These findings underline the importance of MGMT promoter hypermethylation in basic and translational cancer research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipe V Jacinto
- Cancer Epigenetics Laboratory, Molecular Pathology Programme, Spanish National Cancer Centre (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
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Jacinto FV, Esteller M. Mutator pathways unleashed by epigenetic silencing in human cancer. Mutagenesis 2007; 22:247-53. [PMID: 17412712 DOI: 10.1093/mutage/gem009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Human cancers exhibit genomic instability and an increased mutation rate due to underlying defects in DNA repair genes. Hypermethylation of CpG islands in gene promoter regions is an important mechanism of gene inactivation in cancer. Many cellular pathways, including DNA repair, are inactivated by this type of epigenetic lesion, resulting in mutator pathways. In this review, we discuss the adverse consequences suffered by a cell when DNA repair genes such as the DNA mismatch repair gene hMLH1, the DNA alkyl-repair gene O(6)-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase, the familial breast cancer gene BRCA1 and the Werner syndrome gene WRN become epigenetically silenced in human cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipe V Jacinto
- Cancer Epigenetics Laboratory, Molecular Pathology Programme, Spanish National Cancer Centre (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
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30
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Affiliation(s)
- T R Wilson
- Drug Resistance Laboratory, Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
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31
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Abstract
Genetic abnormalities of proto-oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes have been demonstrated to be changes that are frequently involved in esophageal cancer pathogenesis. However, hypermethylation of CpG islands, an epigenetic event, is coming more and more into focus in carcinogenesis of the esophagus. Recent studies have proved that promoter hypermethylation of tumor suppressor genes is frequently observed in esophageal carcinomas and seems to play an important role in the pathogenesis of this tumor type. In this review, we will discuss current research on genes that are hypermethylated in human esophageal cancer and precancerous lesions of the esophagus. We will also discuss the potential use of hypermethylated genes as targets for detection, prognosis and treatment of esophageal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Da-Long Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, College of Jiaxing, Jiaxing 314001, Zhejiang Province, China.
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32
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Ohno T, Hiraga J, Ohashi H, Sugisaki C, Li E, Asano H, Ito T, Nagai H, Yamashita Y, Mori N, Kinoshita T, Naoe T. Loss of O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase protein expression is a favorable prognostic marker in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Int J Hematol 2006; 83:341-7. [PMID: 16757436 DOI: 10.1532/ijh97.05182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Although aberrant promoter hypermethylation of O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) is a favorable prognostic marker in patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), MGMT protein expression has not been thoroughly examined. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical implication of MGMT protein expression and its correlation with promoter hypermethylation of the gene. We investigated MGMT protein expression by immunohistochemical analysis of 63 DLBCL patients who received cyclophosphamide as part of multidrug regimens. In addition, promoter methylation of the MGMT gene was analyzed by a methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction assay, and correlations with chemotherapeutic effect and prognosis were statistically evaluated. Immunohistochemical assay results for MGMT protein were negative in 30.2% of patients with newly diagnosed DLBCL. Immunostaining results were closely correlated with the methylation status of the promoter. Promoter DNA methylation of the gene was not detected in 34 (81.0%) of 42 tumor samples determined to be MGMT-positive DLBCL by immunostaining and was detected in 15 (88.2%) of 17 cases of MGMT-negative DLBCL. Overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) rates were significantly higher in MGMT-negative patients than in MGMT-positive patients (5-year OS, 81.3% versus 56.6% [P = .0375]; 5-year DFS, 66.3% versus 39.9% [P = .0121]). The combined rate for complete response (CR) plus unconfirmed CR was significantly higher in MGMT-negative patients (15/19, 79.0%) than in MGMT-positive patients (25/44, 56.8%) (P = .0488). A multivariate analysis showed that absence of MGMT expression was an independent prognostic factor for OS (relative risk, 4.09; P = .0258). Lack of MGMT protein expression is associated with aberrant promoter DNA methylation and appears to be a useful marker for predicting the survival of DLBCL patients.
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MESH Headings
- Adult
- Aged
- Aged, 80 and over
- Antineoplastic Agents, Alkylating/administration & dosage
- Biomarkers, Tumor/biosynthesis
- Cyclophosphamide/administration & dosage
- DNA Methylation/drug effects
- Disease-Free Survival
- Female
- Gene Expression Regulation, Leukemic/drug effects
- Humans
- Lymphoma, B-Cell/drug therapy
- Lymphoma, B-Cell/enzymology
- Lymphoma, B-Cell/mortality
- Lymphoma, Large B-Cell, Diffuse/drug therapy
- Lymphoma, Large B-Cell, Diffuse/enzymology
- Lymphoma, Large B-Cell, Diffuse/mortality
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Neoplasm Proteins/biosynthesis
- O(6)-Methylguanine-DNA Methyltransferase/biosynthesis
- Prognosis
- Promoter Regions, Genetic
- Protein Biosynthesis/drug effects
- Survival Rate
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshihito Ohno
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
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Fox EJ, Leahy DT, Geraghty R, Mulcahy HE, Fennelly D, Hyland JM, O'Donoghue DP, Sheahan K. Mutually exclusive promoter hypermethylation patterns of hMLH1 and O6-methylguanine DNA methyltransferase in colorectal cancer. J Mol Diagn 2006; 8:68-75. [PMID: 16436636 PMCID: PMC1867561 DOI: 10.2353/jmoldx.2006.050084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypermethylation of CpG islands in gene promoter regions is an important mechanism of gene inactivation in cancer. Many cellular pathways, including DNA repair, are inactivated by this type of epigenetic lesion, resulting in proposed mutator phenotypes. Promoter hypermethylation of hMLH1 has been implicated in a subset of colorectal cancers that show microsatellite instability (MSI). Transcriptional silencing of O6-methylguanine DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) has also been described in a variety of neoplasms and has been associated with a consequent mutational spectrum. We investigated the relationship between hMLH1 promoter hypermethylation and MGMT promoter hypermethylation in 110 colorectal cancers using methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction. Expression of hMLH1 and MGMT was assessed by immunohistochemistry. MSI testing was performed using the National Cancer Institute consensus panel of five microsatellite markers. Promoter hypermethylation of hMLH1 was detected in 12% of tumors. This was significantly associated with the MSI-high phenotype (P < 0.01) and loss of hMLH1 expression (P < 0.01). Methylation of the MGMT promoter was detected in 43% of tumors, which were mostly microsatellite stable or MSI-low (P = 0.041) and showed loss of MGMT expression (P < 0.01). We demonstrated an inverse relationship between hMLH1 promoter hypermethylation and MGMT promoter hypermethylation (P = 0.041), suggesting that a number of distinct hypermethylation-associated pathways may exist in colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward J Fox
- Department of Pathology, Conway Institute Of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
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34
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Abdel-Fattah R, Glick A, Rehman I, Maiberger P, Hennings H. Methylation of the O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase promoter suppresses expression in mouse skin tumors and varies with the tumor induction protocol. Int J Cancer 2006; 118:527-31. [PMID: 16094607 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.21316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Hypermethylation of CpG sites within the promoter region of the O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) gene occurs frequently in human cancer, preventing both MGMT expression and repair of alkylation damage. To assess the role of MGMT in the development of mouse skin tumors induced by initiation-promotion protocols, methylation of the MGMT promoter was examined in tumor DNA using methylation-specific PCR. To determine whether MGMT promoter methylation was affected by the tumor induction protocol, tumors were initiated by N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine (MNNG) or 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) and promoted by 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) or mezerein. Although the MGMT promoter was not methylated in normal skin, promoter methylation was found in 56 of 136 papillomas (41.2%) and in 19 of 37 squamous cell carcinomas (51.4%). When methylation of the MGMT promoter was compared in the 4 treatment groups, hypermethylation was found more frequently in tumors initiated by DMBA and promoted by mezerein, a protocol associated with a high frequency of malignant conversion. Methylation was found in some tumors as early as 5 weeks after initiation, but the methylation frequency increased with time. MGMT promoter methylation reduced MGMT expression as determined by immunohistochemistry. Although MGMT promoter methylation was not generally correlated with ras mutations, the frequency of MGMT methylation was higher in MNNG-initiated, mezerein-promoted papillomas with mutations in Ha-ras compared to papillomas with Ki-ras. Methylation of the MGMT promoter, associated with reduced MGMT expression, is found in nearly half of mouse skin tumors, but varies with both the tumor initiator and tumor promoter, and may be a key step in the progression from papillomas to carcinomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rana Abdel-Fattah
- Laboratory of Cellular Carcinogenesis and Tumor Promotion, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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35
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Nakayama K, Inokuchi K, Dan K. Hypermethylation of the putative tumor-suppressor genes DCC, p51/63 and O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) and loss of their expressions in cell lines of hematological malignancies. J NIPPON MED SCH 2005; 72:270-7. [PMID: 16247226 DOI: 10.1272/jnms.72.270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Alterations and defective expression of three putative tumor-suppressor genes, the deleted in colorectal cancer (DCC), p51, and O(6)-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT), have been demonstrated in many cancers. However, it is not known whether the defective expression of each of these genes is independent or whether it reflects a specific methylation abnormality. Here, we investigated the expression of the DCC, p51 and MGMT genes and the methylation status of the 5' flanking CpG region in 17 cell lines established from hematological malignancies. The reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction method showed DCC expression to be absent in 13 of the 17 cell lines and showed expression of both p51 and MGMT to be absent in 5 of the 17 cell lines. The methylation patterns were analyzed with methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction (MSP) of the 5'flanking region of the DCC and p51 genes and the promoter region of the MGMT gene. Although unmethylated patterns of the CpG region in the DCC, p51, and MGMT genes were observed in all 11 normal controls, abnormal methylation patterns of these genes were found even in many cell lines expressing these genes. A hypermethylation pattern was detected for the CpG region of MGMT and p51 in cells that did not express these genes. In contrast, a hypermethylation pattern was not always detected for the CpG region of DCC in cells with reduced DCC expression. The results of this study indicate that in many hematological cell lines, the DCC, p51, and MGMT genes have been abnormally methylated in the CpG region. Hypermethylation of these three genes may be independent events in each cell line.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazutaka Nakayama
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Nippon Medical School, 1-1-5 Sendagi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8603, Japan
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36
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Soejima H, Zhao W, Mukai T. Epigenetic silencing of the MGMT gene in cancer. Biochem Cell Biol 2005; 83:429-37. [PMID: 16094446 DOI: 10.1139/o05-140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Silencing of the O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) gene, a key to DNA repair, plays a critical role in the development of cancer. The gene product, functioning normally, removes a methyl group from mutagenic O6-methylguanine, which is produced by alkylating agents and can make a mismatched pair with thymine, leading to transition mutation through DNA replication. MGMT is epigenetically silenced in various human tumors. It is well known that DNA hypermethylation at the promoter CpG island plays a pivotal role in the epigenetic silencing of tumor suppressor genes. MGMT silencing, however, occurs without DNA hypermethylation in some cancer cells. Dimethylation of histone H3 lysine 9 and binding of methyl-CpG binding proteins are common and essential in MGMT-silenced cells. Silencing of MGMT has been shown to be a poor prognostic factor but a good predictive marker for chemotherapy when alkylating agents are used. In this review, we describe recent advances in understanding the silencing of MGMT and its role in carcinogenesis; epigenetic mechanisms; and clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hidenobu Soejima
- Division of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Department of Molecular Sciences, Saga University, Japan.
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37
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Lin Z, Gao M, Zhang X, Kim YS, Lee ES, Kim HK, Kim I. The hypermethylation and protein expression of p16 INK4A and DNA repair gene O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase in various uterine cervical lesions. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2005; 131:364-70. [PMID: 15785933 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-004-0657-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2004] [Accepted: 10/20/2004] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study is aimed at investigating the significance of gene promoter methylation status and protein expression of p16 INK4A and O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) in the various uterine cervical lesions. MATERIALS AND METHODS Methylation status by using methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction (MS-PCR) and protein expression by using immunohistochemistry for p16 INK4A and MGMT genes were performed in cervical squamous intraepithelial neoplasms (CIN), invasive squamous cell carcinomas (SCC), adenocarcinomas and non-neoplastic cervices. RESULTS None of 20 non-neoplastic cervices showed p16 INK4A and MGMT gene hypermethylation, whereas at least one of these genes was hypermethylated with 50.0% (5/10) of CIN I, 65.0% (13/20) of CIN II-III, 70.2% (33/47) of SCC and 85.0% (17/20) of adenocarcinoma. p16 INK4A protein was totally negative in non-neoplastic cervices, but positive with 90.0% of CIN I, 100% of CIN II-III and adenocarcinoma, and 78.7% of SCC. MGMT protein was expressed in 10% of non-neoplastic cervices, but significantly increased in SCC (42.5%) and adenocarcinoma (70.0%). The protein expression of p16 INK4A and MGMT was not related to their gene promoter methylation status. CONCLUSIONS The hypermethylation of p16 INK4A and MGMT genes in the uterine cervix may indicate the presence of malignant cells, and p16 INK4A immunostaining is useful in grading CIN and diagnosing invasive SCC and adenocarcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenhua Lin
- Department of Pathology, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
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38
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Paz MF, Yaya-Tur R, Rojas-Marcos I, Reynes G, Pollan M, Aguirre-Cruz L, García-Lopez JL, Piquer J, Safont MJ, Balaña C, Sanchez-Cespedes M, García-Villanueva M, Arribas L, Esteller M. CpG island hypermethylation of the DNA repair enzyme methyltransferase predicts response to temozolomide in primary gliomas. Clin Cancer Res 2005; 10:4933-8. [PMID: 15297393 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-04-0392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 204] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The DNA repair enzyme O(6)-methylguanine DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) inhibits the killing of tumor cells by alkylating agents, and its loss in cancer cells is associated with hypermethylation of the MGMT CpG island. Thus, methylation of MGMT has been correlated with the clinical response to 1,3-bis(2-chloroethyl)-1-nitrosourea (BCNU) in primary gliomas. Here, we investigate whether the presence of MGMT methylation in gliomas is also a good predictor of response to another emergent alkylating agent, temozolomide. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Using a methylation-specific PCR approach, we assessed the methylation status of the CpG island of MGMT in 92 glioma patients who received temozolomide as first-line chemotherapy or as treatment for relapses. RESULTS Methylation of the MGMT promoter positively correlated with the clinical response in the glioma patients receiving temozolomide as first-line chemotherapy (n = 40). Eight of 12 patients with MGMT-methylated tumors (66.7%) had a partial or complete response, compared with 7 of 28 patients with unmethylated tumors (25.0%; P = 0.030). We also found a positive association between MGMT methylation and clinical response in those patients receiving BCNU (n = 35, P = 0.041) or procarbazine/1-(2-chloroethyl)-3-cyclohexyl-1-nitrosourea (n = 17, P = 0.043) as first-line chemotherapy. Overall, if we analyze the clinical response of all of the first-line chemotherapy treatments with temozolomide, BCNU, and procarbazine/1-(2-chloroethyl)-3-cyclohexyl-1-nitrosourea as a group in relation to the MGMT methylation status, MGMT hypermethylation was strongly associated with the presence of partial or complete clinical response (P < 0.001). Finally, the MGMT methylation status determined in the initial glioma tumor did not correlate with the clinical response to temozolomide when this drug was administered as treatment for relapses (P = 0.729). CONCLUSIONS MGMT methylation predicts the clinical response of primary gliomas to first-line chemotherapy with the alkylating agent temozolomide. These results may open up possibilities for more customized treatments of human brain tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria F Paz
- Cancer Epigenetics Laboratory, Spanish National Cancer Centre, Madrid, Spain
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Abstract
Resistance to chemotherapy limits the effectiveness of anti-cancer drug treatment. Tumours may be intrinsically drug-resistant or develop resistance to chemotherapy during treatment. Acquired resistance is a particular problem, as tumours not only become resistant to the drugs originally used to treat them, but may also become cross-resistant to other drugs with different mechanisms of action. Resistance to chemotherapy is believed to cause treatment failure in over 90% of patients with metastatic cancer, and resistant micrometastic tumour cells may also reduce the effectiveness of chemotherapy in the adjuvant setting. Clearly, if drug resistance could be overcome, the impact on survival would be highly significant. This review focuses on molecular mechanisms of drug resistance that operate to reduce drug sensitivity in cancer cells. Drug resistance can occur at many levels, including increased drug efflux, drug inactivation, alterations in drug target, processing of drug-induced damage, and evasion of apoptosis. Advances in DNA microarray and proteomic technology, and the ongoing development of new targeted therapies have opened up new opportunities to combat drug resistance. We are now able to characterize the signalling pathways involved in regulating tumour cell response to chemotherapy more completely than ever before. This will facilitate the future development of rational combined chemotherapy regimens, in which the newer targeted therapies are used in combination with cytotoxic drugs to enhance chemotherapy activity. The ability to predict response to chemotherapy and to modulate this response with targeted therapies will permit selection of the best treatment for individual patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- D B Longley
- Drug Resistance Laboratory, Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, N Ireland, UK
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40
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Danam RP, Howell SR, Brent TP, Harris LC. Epigenetic regulation of O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase gene expression by histone acetylation and methyl-CpG binding proteins. Mol Cancer Ther 2005. [DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.61.4.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Transcriptional silencing of the DNA repair gene, O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) in a proportion of transformed cell lines is associated with methylated CpG hotspots in the MGMT 5′ flank. The goal of the study was to evaluate the mechanism by which CpG methylation of theMGMT promoter region influenced silencing of the gene. Analysis of histone acetylation status in two regions of the promoter using chromatin immunoprecipitation assay showed that a higher level of histone acetylation was associated with expression in three MGMT-expressing cell lines (HeLa CCL2, HT29, and Raji) compared with three MGMT-silenced cell lines (HeLa S3, BE, and TK6). To determine how the modulation of CpG methylation and histone acetylation influenced MGMT expression, we exposed the cells to 5-aza-2′deoxycytidine (5-Aza-dC), inhibitor of DNA methylation, which strongly up-regulated MGMT expression in three MGMT-silenced cell lines whereas trichostatin A, inhibitor of histone deacetylase, weakly induced MGMT. However, combined treatment with 5-Aza-dC and trichostatin A significantly up-regulated MGMT RNA expression to a greater extent than in cells treated with either agent alone suggesting that histone deacetylation plays a role in MGMT silencing but that CpG methylation has a dominant effect. Consistent with enhanced MGMT expression, 5-Aza-dC increased the association of acetylated histone H3 and H4 bound to the MGMT promoter. Chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis of methyl-CpG binding domain containing proteins detected a greater amount of MeCP2, MBD1, and CAF-1 bound to the MGMT promoter in MGMT-silenced cells. Our findings implicate specific MBD proteins in methylation-mediated transcriptional silencing of MGMT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca P. Danam
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee
| | - Sherie R. Howell
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee
| | - Thomas P. Brent
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee
| | - Linda C. Harris
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee
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Rood BR, Zhang H, Cogen PH. Intercellular heterogeneity of expression of the MGMT DNA repair gene in pediatric medulloblastoma. Neuro Oncol 2004; 6:200-7. [PMID: 15279712 PMCID: PMC1872000 DOI: 10.1215/s1152851703000565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
DNA methylation and epigenetic inactivation of the O6-methylguanine methyltransferase (MGMT) gene induces MGMT deficiency, reducing the tumor cell's DNA repair capacity and increasing its susceptibility to alkylating chemotherapeutic agents. Consequently, adult patients whose tumors are deficient in MGMT have better outcomes with alkylator chemotherapy, and MGMT methylation has been proposed as a screening marker of deficient tumors. In order to test the feasibility of this approach for medulloblastoma, a common brain tumor in children, we determined the methylation status, mRNA expression pattern, and protein expression of MGMT in a panel of clinical specimens. Methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction analysis revealed methylation of MGMT in 28 of 37 tumor samples. Quantitative real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction showed a range of expression of MGMT mRNA varying more than 20-fold. However, there was no correlation found between MGMT methylation and mRNA expression. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated that all tumors were immunoreactive for MGMT in the nucleus of the medulloblastoma cells in a heterogeneous pattern. The intercell variability of MGMT complement explained the discordance between methylation and expression. Therefore, MGMT methylation as determined by methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction cannot be used as a marker for MGMT deficiency in medulloblastoma. Further, these findings support the use of pharmacological MGMT depletion as a rational approach for intensification of alkylator chemotherapy in the treatment of medulloblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian R Rood
- Children's Research Institute, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC 20010, USA.
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Esteller M, Herman JG. Generating mutations but providing chemosensitivity: the role of O6-methylguanine DNA methyltransferase in human cancer. Oncogene 2004; 23:1-8. [PMID: 14712205 DOI: 10.1038/sj.onc.1207316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 222] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
O(6)-methylguanine DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) is a key enzyme in the DNA repair network. MGMT removes mutagenic and cytotoxic adducts from O(6)-guanine in DNA, the preferred point of attack of many carcinogens (i.e. methylnitrosourea) and alkylating chemotherapeutic agents (i.e. BCNU, temozolamide, etc.). Hypermethylation of the CpG island located in the promoter region of MGMT is primarily responsible for the loss of MGMT function in many tumor types. The methylation-mediated silencing of MGMT has two consequences for cancer. First, tumors with MGMT methylation have a new mutator phenotype characterized by the generation of transition point mutations in genes involved in cancer etiology, such as the tumor suppressor p53 and the oncogene K-ras. Second, MGMT hypermethylation demonstrates the possibility of pharmacoepigenomics: methylated tumors are more sensitive to the killing effects of alkylating drugs used in chemotherapy. These recent results underscore the importance of MGMT in basic and translational cancer research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manel Esteller
- Cancer Epigenetics Laboratory, Molecular Pathology Program, Spanish National Cancer Center (CNIO), Melchor Fernandez Almagro 3, Madrid 28029, Spain.
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Nakagawachi T, Soejima H, Urano T, Zhao W, Higashimoto K, Satoh Y, Matsukura S, Kudo S, Kitajima Y, Harada H, Furukawa K, Matsuzaki H, Emi M, Nakabeppu Y, Miyazaki K, Sekiguchi M, Mukai T. Silencing effect of CpG island hypermethylation and histone modifications on O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) gene expression in human cancer. Oncogene 2004; 22:8835-44. [PMID: 14647440 DOI: 10.1038/sj.onc.1207183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) repairs the cytotoxic and mutagenic O6-alkylguanine produced by alkylating agents such as chemotherapeutic agents and mutagens. Recent studies have shown that in a subset of tumors, MGMT expression is inversely linked to hypermethylation of the CpG island in the promoter region; however, how the epigenetic silencing mechanism works, as it relates to hypermethylation, was still unclear. To understand the mechanism, we examined the detailed methylation status of the whole island with bisulfite-sequencing in 19 MGMT non-expressed cancer cell lines. We found two highly methylated regions in the island. One was upstream of exon 1, including minimal promoter, and the other was downstream, including enhancer. Reporter gene assay showed that methylation of both the upstream and downstream regions suppressed luciferase activity drastically. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assay revealed that histone H3 lysine 9 was hypermethylated throughout the island in the MGMT negative line, whereas acetylation on H3 and H4 and methylation on H3 lysine 4 were at significantly high levels outside the minimal promoter in the MGMT-expressed line. Furthermore, MeCP2 preferentially bound to the CpG-methylated island in the MGMT negative line. Given these results, we propose a model for gene silencing of MGMT that is dependent on the epigenetic state in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tetsuji Nakagawachi
- Division of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Saga Medical School, 5-1-1 Nabeshima, Saga 849-8501, Japan
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Matsukura S, Miyazaki K, Yakushiji H, Ogawa A, Chen Y, Sekiguchi M. Combined loss of expression of O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase and hMLH1 accelerates progression of hepatocellular carcinoma. J Surg Oncol 2003; 82:194-200. [PMID: 12619064 DOI: 10.1002/jso.10209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES O(6)-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) and human Mut L homologue 1 (hMLH1) are proteins that play an important role in DNA repair. No reports have yet described whether deficient MGMT and hMLH1 expression correlates with tumor progression and the prognosis of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). METHODS Using immunohistochemical analysis, we evaluated the expression status of MGMT and hMLH1 protein in 60 paraffin-embedded samples from consecutive patients with curatively resected HCC. RESULTS The lack of expression of both MGMT and hMLH1 in HCCs (n = 7) correlated with advanced pTNM stage (P = 0.039), as compared with HCCs expressing both proteins (n = 25). The absence of both MGMT and hMLH1 was a significant indicator of malignant potential. The expression status of both MGMT and hMLH1 was a predictive factor for overall survival in patients with HCC (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS HCC lacking both MGMT and hMLH1 is correlated with an advanced stage and a poor prognosis. The expression status of both repair proteins is a predictive prognostic marker in patients with HCC after surgical resection.
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Zhang YJ, Chen Y, Ahsan H, Lunn RM, Lee PH, Chen CJ, Santella RM. Inactivation of the DNA repair gene O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase by promoter hypermethylation and its relationship to aflatoxin B1-DNA adducts and p53 mutation in hepatocellular carcinoma. Int J Cancer 2003; 103:440-4. [PMID: 12478658 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.10852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
O(6)-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) is a repair protein that specifically removes promutagenic alkyl groups from the O(6) position of guanine in DNA. MGMT is transcriptionally silenced by promoter hypermethylation in several human cancers. Methylation-specific PCR (MSP) was used to analyze the MGMT promoter methylation status of 83 hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC) and 2 HCC cell lines (HepG2 and Hep3B). Hypermethylation was detected in 32 of 83 (39%) HCC tissues, but it was not found in either HCC cell line. We also analyzed MGMT expression by immunohistochemical analysis of HCC tissue samples. The presence of aberrant hypermethylation was associated with loss of MGMT protein. The relationship between methylation status and risk factors and tumor markers including environmental exposure to aflatoxin B(1) (AFB(1)), measured as DNA adducts, and status of tumor suppressor gene p53 was also investigated. A statistically significant association was found between MGMT promoter hypermethylation and high level of AFB(1)-DNA adducts in tumor tissues (OR = 5.05, 95% CI = 1.29-19.73). A significant association was also found between methylation and p53 mutation status (OR = 2.97, 95% CI = 1.09-8.11). These results suggest that epigenetic inactivation of MGMT plays an important role in the development of HCC and exposure to environmental carcinogens may be related to altered methylation of genes involved in cancer development. The role of chemical carcinogens in hypermethylation needs further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Jing Zhang
- Departments of Environmental Health Sciences and Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, 700 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
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Herman JG. Hypermethylation pathways to colorectal cancer. Implications for prevention and detection. Gastroenterol Clin North Am 2002; 31:945-58. [PMID: 12489271 DOI: 10.1016/s0889-8553(02)00058-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/21/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetic changes play an important role in the development and progression of colorectal cancer. The best characterized of these changes is the promoter region methylation of CpG islands of genes that play key roles in this disease. These changes compliment and lead to genetic changes that are well established as central to colorectal cancer progression. They may also prove useful in molecular detection approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- James G Herman
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Bunting-Blaustein Cancer Research Building, 1650 Orleans, Room 543, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA.
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Povey AC, Badawi AF, Cooper DP, Hall CN, Harrison KL, Jackson PE, Lees NP, O'Connor PJ, Margison GP. DNA alkylation and repair in the large bowel: animal and human studies. J Nutr 2002; 132:3518S-3521S. [PMID: 12421880 DOI: 10.1093/jn/132.11.3518s] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
O6-methylguanine (O6-MeG), a procarcinogenic DNA adduct that arises from exposure to methylating agents, has been detected in human colorectal DNA at levels comparable to those that cause adverse effects in model systems. O6-MeG levels vary within the colon, being higher in the cancer-prone regions of the large bowel. In rats and mice, O6-MeG persistence in colon DNA is associated with the induction of colon tumors after treatment with methylating agents. These tumors frequently contain K-ras GC-->AT transition mutations, which is consistent with the mutagenic properties of O6-MeG: such mutations are also commonly found in human colorectal cancers. O6-Alkylguanine adducts are removed by the DNA repair protein, O6-alkylguanine DNA-alkyltransferase (MGMT). MGMT overexpression in transgenic mice reduces the formation of K-ras GC-->AT mutations and tumors induced by methylating agents. Interindividual variations in human colon MGMT activity are large and large bowel tumors can occur in regions of low activity. Low MGMT activity in normal mucosa has been associated with the occurrence of K-ras GC-->AT mutations, whereas reduced MGMT expression and an increased frequency of K-ras GC-->AT mutations in colorectal cancers have been linked to MGMT promoter methylation. MGMT activity is also lower in adenomas than in adjacent normal tissue but only in those adenomas with this specific mutation. These results are entirely consistent with the hypothesis that GC-->AT mutations in the K-ras oncogene result from the formation and persistence of O6-alkylguanine lesions in colorectal DNA. Human exposure to endogenous or exogenous alkylating agents may thus be an environmental determinant of colorectal cancer risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew C Povey
- Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Epidemiology and Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PL, England
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Oue N, Sentani K, Yokozaki H, Kitadai Y, Ito R, Yasui W. Promoter methylation status of the DNA repair genes hMLH1 and MGMT in gastric carcinoma and metaplastic mucosa. Pathobiology 2002; 69:143-9. [PMID: 11872960 DOI: 10.1159/000048769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypermethylation of CpG islands in the promoter region is associated with the silencing of a variety of tumor suppressor genes. DNA repair genes human Mut L homologue 1 (hMLH1) and O(6)-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) have been shown to be hypermethylated in certain carcinomas. We studied DNA methylation of CpG islands in hMLH1 and MGMT in 50 gastric carcinomas and 10 intestinal metaplastic mucosa samples. We analyzed the methylation status of hMLH1 and MGMT using methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction and DNA sequencing analysis. We measured protein levels of hMLH1 using Western blot and immunohistochemical analysis. CpG island hypermethylation of hMLH1 and MGMT was detected in 11 (22%) and 8 (16%) of the 50 gastric tumors, respectively. Hypermethylation of the promoter was more common in intestinal-type gastric carcinomas than in poorly diffuse-type gastric carcinomas (p = 0.016 and 0.021, respectively; Fisher's exact test). However, hMLH1 promoter hypermethylation did not coincide with MGMT promoter hypermethylation except in 1 patient. Hypermethylation of the hMLH1 promoter but not the MGMT promoter occurred in intestinal metaplastic mucosae. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed a corresponding reduction in hMLH1 protein expression in some of the intestinal metaplastic mucosae. Our results suggest that at least two types of promoter methylation participate in the development of gastric carcinoma. Tumor-specific promoter hypermethylation of hMLH1 may be an early event in carcinogenesis in the stomach.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Oue
- First Department of Pathology, Hiroshima University School of Medicine, Hiroshima, Japan
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Bae SI, Lee HS, Kim SH, Kim WH. Inactivation of O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase by promoter CpG island hypermethylation in gastric cancers. Br J Cancer 2002; 86:1888-92. [PMID: 12085181 PMCID: PMC2375420 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjc.6600372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2001] [Revised: 04/05/2002] [Accepted: 04/22/2002] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Promoter hypermethylation of CpG islands in tumour suppressor genes can lead to transcriptional inactivation. To investigate the association between methylation and expression at O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase, we performed methylation-specific PCR and immunohistochemistry in 149 gastric carcinomas. Promoter methylation was found in 14.1% of tumours and loss of expression was detected in 11.4% of tumours. To examine correlation between the O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase expression and the clinical data, we investigated O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase expression in 315 consecutive gastric carcinomas. A similar frequency of loss of O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase expression was confirmed in these cases. The loss of O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase expression was significantly associated with pTNM stage (P=0.037), tumour invasion (P=0.02), microsatellite instability (P=0.041) and overall survival (P=0.01). Among 11 gastric cancer cell lines, SNU-620 showed the loss of O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase expression as well as promoter methylation. After treatment with 5-aza-2-deoxycytidine, a demethylating agent, SNU-620 re-expressed O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase mRNA. In summary, we suggest that during gastric carcinogenesis, the loss of O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase expression frequently occurs via the hypermethylation of the CpG islands of the promoter region, and that this is significantly associated with the clinicopathological characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- S I Bae
- Department of Pathology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 28 Yongon-dong, Seoul 110-799, Korea
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Adlard JW, Richman SD, Seymour MT, Quirke P. Prediction of the response of colorectal cancer to systemic therapy. Lancet Oncol 2002; 3:75-82. [PMID: 11902527 DOI: 10.1016/s1470-2045(02)00648-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Adjuvant chemotherapy with fluorouracil and folinic acid improves overall survival for resected carcinoma of the colon of Dukes' stage C by 10-12%. In metastatic disease, response rates with fluorouracil-based regimens are about 25%. Combination with newer agents such as irinotecan and oxaliplatin can improve response rates to more than 50% in selected patients. New treatments with novel molecular targets will soon be entering clinical use. Despite these improvements, many patients undergo chemotherapy for resistant cancer, thus incurring side-effects without benefit. Expression of particular genes can be tested at the protein or RNA level and can be correlated with response or resistance to particular systemic therapies. Thus, predictive-factor testing of tumour biopsy samples may allow us to select chemotherapy or immunotherapy treatments with a high likelihood of benefit for the individual patient.
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