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Battistella A, Tacelli M, Mapelli P, Schiavo Lena M, Andreasi V, Genova L, Muffatti F, De Cobelli F, Partelli S, Falconi M. Recent developments in the diagnosis of pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 18:155-169. [PMID: 38647016 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2024.2342837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Neoplasms (PanNENs) are characterized by a highly heterogeneous clinical and biological behavior, making their diagnosis challenging. PanNENs diagnostic work-up mainly relies on biochemical markers, pathological examination, and imaging evaluation. The latter includes radiological imaging (i.e. computed tomography [CT] and magnetic resonance imaging [MRI]), functional imaging (i.e. 68Gallium [68 Ga]Ga-DOTA-peptide PET/CT and Fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose [18F]FDG PET/CT), and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) with its associated procedures. AREAS COVERED This review provides a comprehensive assessment of the recent advancements in the PanNENs diagnostic field. PubMed and Embase databases were used for the research, performed from inception to October 2023. EXPERT OPINION A deeper understanding of PanNENs biology, recent technological improvements in imaging modalities, as well as progresses achieved in molecular and cytological assays, are fundamental players for the achievement of early diagnosis and enhanced preoperative characterization of PanNENs. A multimodal diagnostic approach is required for a thorough disease assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Battistella
- Pancreatic Surgery Unit, Pancreas Translational and Clinical Research Center, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Tacelli
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Pancreato-biliary Endoscopy and EUS Division, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Mapelli
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Nuclear Medicine Department, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Valentina Andreasi
- Pancreatic Surgery Unit, Pancreas Translational and Clinical Research Center, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Luana Genova
- Pancreatic Surgery Unit, Pancreas Translational and Clinical Research Center, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Muffatti
- Pancreatic Surgery Unit, Pancreas Translational and Clinical Research Center, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco De Cobelli
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Radiology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Partelli
- Pancreatic Surgery Unit, Pancreas Translational and Clinical Research Center, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Falconi
- Pancreatic Surgery Unit, Pancreas Translational and Clinical Research Center, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
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Neyaz A, Crotty R, Rickelt S, Pankaj A, Stojanova M, Michelakos TP, Sekigami Y, Kontos F, Parrack PH, Patil DT, Heaphy CM, Ferrone CR, Deshpande V. Predicting recurrence in pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours: role of ARX and alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT). Histopathology 2023; 83:546-558. [PMID: 37455385 DOI: 10.1111/his.14996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While many pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours (PanNET) show indolent behaviour, predicting the biological behaviour of small nonfunctional PanNETs remains a challenge. Nonfunctional PanNETs with an epigenome and transcriptome that resemble islet alpha cells (ARX-positive) are more aggressive than neoplasms that resemble islet beta cells (PDX1-positive). In this study, we explore the ability of immunohistochemistry for ARX and PDX1 and telomere-specific fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH) for alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) to predict recurrence. METHODS Two hundred fifty-six patients with PanNETs were identified, and immunohistochemistry for ARX and PDX1 was performed. Positive staining was defined as strong nuclear staining in >5% of tumour cells. FISH for ALT was performed in a subset of cases. RESULTS ARX reactivity correlated with worse disease-free survival (DFS) (P = 0.011), while there was no correlation between PDX1 reactivity and DFS (P = 0.52). ALT-positive tumours (n = 63, 31.8%) showed a significantly lower DFS (P < 0.0001) than ALT-negative tumours (n = 135, 68.2%). ARX reactivity correlated with ALT positivity (P < 0.0001). Among nonfunctional tumours, recurrence was noted in 18.5% (30/162) of ARX-positive tumours and 7.5% (5/67) of ARX-negative tumours. Among WHO grade 1 and 2 PanNETs with ≤2 cm tumour size, 14% (6/43) of ARX-positive tumours recurred compared to 0 of 33 ARX-negative tumours and 33.3% (3/9) ALT-positive tumours showed recurrence versus 4.4% (2/45) ALT-negative tumours. CONCLUSION Immunohistochemistry for ARX and ALT FISH status may aid in distinguishing biologically indolent cases from aggressive small low-grade PanNETs, and help to identify patients who may preferentially benefit from surgical intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azfar Neyaz
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rory Crotty
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Steffen Rickelt
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Amaya Pankaj
- Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Yurie Sekigami
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Filippos Kontos
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Paige H Parrack
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Deepa T Patil
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Christopher M Heaphy
- Department of Medicine, Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Vikram Deshpande
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
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Mastrosimini MG, Manfrin E, Remo A, De Bellis M, Parisi A, Pedron S, Luchini C, Brunelli M, Ammendola S, Bernardoni L, Conti Bellocchi MC, Gabbrielli A, Facciorusso A, Pea A, Landoni L, Scarpa A, Crinò SF. Endoscopic ultrasound fine-needle biopsy to assess DAXX/ATRX expression and alternative lengthening of telomeres status in non-functional pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors. Pancreatology 2023:S1424-3903(23)00139-4. [PMID: 37169669 DOI: 10.1016/j.pan.2023.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2022] [Revised: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES Death domain-associated protein (DAXX) and/or α-thalassemia/mental retardation X-linked (ATRX) chromatin remodeling genes mutations and alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) activation are associated with more aggressive behavior of non-functional pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (NF-PanNETs). We aimed to evaluate the reliability of such markers on endoscopic-ultrasound fine-needle biopsy (EUS-FNB) specimens. METHODS Patients who underwent EUS-FNB and subsequent surgical resection for PanNETs between January 2017 and December 2019 were retrospectively identified. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) to evaluate DAXX/ATRX expression and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) for ALT status were performed. Primary outcome was the concordance rate of markers expression between EUS-FNB and surgical specimens. Secondary aims were association between markers and lesion aggressiveness, their diagnostic performance in predicting aggressiveness, and agreement of preoperative and post-surgical Ki67-based grading. RESULTS Forty-one NF-PanNETs (mean diameter 36.1 ± 26.5 mm) were included. Twenty-four showed features of lesion aggressiveness. Concordance of expressions of DAXX, ATRX, and ALT status between EUS-FNB and surgical specimens were 95.1% (κ = 0.828; p < 0.001), 92.7% (κ = 0.626; p < 0.001), and 100% (κ = 1; p < 0.001), respectively. DAXX/ATRX loss and ALT-positivity were significantly (p < 0.05) associated with metastatic lymphnodes and lymphovascular invasion. The combination of all tumor markers (DAXX/ATRX loss + ALT-positivity + grade 2) reached an accuracy of 73.2% (95%CI 57.1-85.8) in identifying aggressive lesions. Pre- and post-operative ki-67-based grading was concordant in 80.5% of cases (k = 0.573; p < 0.001). CONCLUSION DAXX/ATRX expression and ALT status can be accurately evaluated in a preoperative setting on EUS-FNB samples, potentially improving the identification of patients with increased risk and poorer prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Gaia Mastrosimini
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Erminia Manfrin
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Andrea Remo
- Department of Pathology, ULSS9 "Scaligera", Verona, Italy
| | - Mario De Bellis
- Department of Surgery, Division of General and HPB Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Alice Parisi
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Serena Pedron
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Claudio Luchini
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Matteo Brunelli
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Serena Ammendola
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Laura Bernardoni
- Digestive Endoscopy Unit, Pancreas Institute, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Armando Gabbrielli
- Digestive Endoscopy Unit, Pancreas Institute, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Antonio Facciorusso
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Section of Gastroenterology, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Antonio Pea
- General and Pancreatic Surgery Department, Pancreas Institute, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Luca Landoni
- General and Pancreatic Surgery Department, Pancreas Institute, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Aldo Scarpa
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy; ARC-NET Applied Research on Cancer Centre, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Stefano Francesco Crinò
- Digestive Endoscopy Unit, Pancreas Institute, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy.
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van Beek DJ, Verschuur AVD, Brosens LAA, Valk GD, Pieterman CRC, Vriens MR. Status of Surveillance and Nonsurgical Therapy for Small Nonfunctioning Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors. Surg Oncol Clin N Am 2023; 32:343-371. [PMID: 36925190 DOI: 10.1016/j.soc.2022.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PNETs) occur in < 1/100,000 patients and most are nonfunctioning (NF). Approximately 5% occur as part of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1. Anatomic and molecular imaging have a pivotal role in the diagnosis, staging and active surveillance. Surgery is generally recommended for nonfunctional pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (NF-PNETs) >2 cm to prevent metastases. For tumors ≤2 cm, active surveillance is a viable alternative. Tumor size and grade are important factors to guide management. Assessment of death domain-associated protein 6/alpha-thalassemia/mental retardation X-linked and alternative lengthening of telomeres are promising novel prognostic markers. This review summarizes the status of surveillance and nonsurgical management for small NF-PNETs, including factors that can guide management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dirk-Jan van Beek
- Department of Endocrine Surgical Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Internal Mail Number G.04.228, PO Box 85500, Utrecht 3508 GA, the Netherlands
| | - Anna Vera D Verschuur
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Internal Mail Number G02.5.26, PO Box 85500, Utrecht 3508 GA, the Netherlands. https://twitter.com/annaveraverschu
| | - Lodewijk A A Brosens
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Internal Mail Number G4.02.06, PO Box 85500, Utrecht 3508 GA, the Netherlands
| | - Gerlof D Valk
- Department of Endocrine Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Internal Mail Number Q.05.4.300, PO Box 85500, Utrecht 3508 GA, the Netherlands
| | - Carolina R C Pieterman
- Department of Endocrine Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Internal Mail Number Q.05.4.300, PO Box 85500, Utrecht 3508 GA, the Netherlands.
| | - Menno R Vriens
- Department of Endocrine Surgical Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Internal Mail Number G.04.228, PO Box 85500, Utrecht 3508 GA, the Netherlands
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Heaphy CM, Singhi AD. Reprint of: The Diagnostic and Prognostic Utility of Incorporating DAXX, ATRX, and Alternative Lengthening of Telomeres (ALT) to the Evaluation of Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors (PanNETs). Hum Pathol 2023; 132:1-11. [PMID: 36702689 DOI: 10.1016/j.humpath.2023.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PanNETs) are a heterogeneous group of neoplasms with increasing incidence and an ill-defined pathobiology. Although many PanNETs are indolent and remain stable for years, a subset may behave aggressively and metastasize widely. Thus, the increasing and frequent detection of PanNETs presents a treatment dilemma. Current prognostic systems are susceptible to interpretation errors, sampling issues, and do not accurately reflect the clinical behavior of these neoplasms. Hence, additional biomarkers are needed to improve the prognostic stratification of patients diagnosed with a PanNET. Recent studies have identified alterations in death domain-associated protein 6 (DAXX) and alpha-thalassemia/mental retardation X-linked (ATRX), as well as alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT), as promising prognostic biomarkers. This review summarizes the identification, clinical utility, and specific nuances in testing for DAXX/ATRX by immunohistochemistry and ALT by telomere-specific fluorescence in situ hybridization in PanNETs. Furthermore, a discussion on diagnostic indications for DAXX, ATRX, and ALT status is provided to include the distinction between PanNETs and pancreatic neuroendocrine carcinomas (PanNECs), and determining pancreatic origin for metastatic neuroendocrine tumors in the setting of an unknown primary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher M Heaphy
- Department of Medicine, Boston University, School of Medicine, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - Aatur D Singhi
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA.
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Heaphy CM, Singhi AD. The diagnostic and prognostic utility of incorporating DAXX, ATRX, and alternative lengthening of telomeres to the evaluation of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors. Hum Pathol 2022; 129:11-20. [PMID: 35872157 DOI: 10.1016/j.humpath.2022.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PanNETs) are a heterogeneous group of neoplasms with increasing incidence and an ill-defined pathobiology. Although many PanNETs are indolent and remain stable for years, a subset may behave aggressively and metastasize widely. Thus, the increasing and frequent detection of PanNETs presents a treatment dilemma. Current prognostic systems are susceptible to interpretation errors, sampling issues, and do not accurately reflect the clinical behavior of these neoplasms. Hence, additional biomarkers are needed to improve the prognostic stratification of patients diagnosed with a PanNET. Recent studies have identified alterations in death domain-associated protein 6 (DAXX) and alpha-thalassemia/mental retardation X-linked (ATRX), as well as alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT), as promising prognostic biomarkers. This review summarizes the identification, clinical utility, and specific nuances in testing for DAXX/ATRX by immunohistochemistry and ALT by telomere-specific fluorescence in situ hybridization in PanNETs. Furthermore, a discussion on diagnostic indications for DAXX, ATRX, and ALT status is provided to include the distinction between PanNETs and pancreatic neuroendocrine carcinomas (PanNECs), and determining pancreatic origin for metastatic neuroendocrine tumors in the setting of an unknown primary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher M Heaphy
- Department of Medicine, Boston University, School of Medicine, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - Aatur D Singhi
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA.
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Insights into Epigenetic Changes Related to Genetic Variants and Cells-of-Origin of Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors: An Algorithm for Practical Workup. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14184444. [PMID: 36139607 PMCID: PMC9496769 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14184444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors are composite entities due to their heterogeneity illustrated in clinical behavior, mutational pattern, and site of origin. Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors display a low mutation burden with frequently epigenetic alterations, such as histone modifications, chromatin remodeling, or DNA methylation status. Using the epigenomic data of the pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors converged to the identification of molecularly distinct subgroups. Furthermore, epigenetic signatures could be used as biomarkers due to their link to cell lineages and genetic driver mutations. We integrated the current knowledge on genetic and epigenetic alterations involved in endocrine lineage associated with these neoplasms to present a pathway-based overview. In this review, we suggest a simplified algorithm on how to manage pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors from a practical perspective based on pathologist ’analysis. Abstract Current knowledge on the molecular landscape of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PanNETs) has advanced significantly. Still, the cellular origin of PanNETs is uncertain and the associated mechanisms remain largely unknown. DAXX/ATRX and MEN1 are the three most frequently altered genes that drive PanNETs. They are recognized as a link between genetics and epigenetics. Moreover, the acknowledged impact on DNA methylation by somatic mutations in MEN1 is a valid hallmark of epigenetic mechanism. DAXX/ATRX and MEN1 can be studied at the immunohistochemical level as a reliable surrogate for sequencing. DAXX/ATRX mutations promote alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) activation, determined by specific fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis. ALT phenotype is considered a significant predictor of worse prognosis and a marker of pancreatic origin. Additionally, ARX/PDX1 expression is linked to important epigenomic alterations and can be used as lineage associated immunohistochemical marker. Herein, ARX/PDX1 association with DAXX/ATRX/MEN1 and ALT can be studied through pathological assessment, as these biomarkers may provide important clues to the mechanism underlying disease pathogenesis. In this review, we present an overview of a new approach to tumor stratification based on genetic and epigenetic characteristics as well as cellular origin, with prognostic consequences.
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Hackeng WM, Assi HA, Westerbeke FHM, Brosens LAA, Heaphy CM. Prognostic and Predictive Biomarkers for Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors. Surg Pathol Clin 2022; 15:541-554. [PMID: 36049835 DOI: 10.1016/j.path.2022.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PanNETs) represent a clinically challenging disease because these tumors vary in clinical presentation, natural history, and prognosis. Novel prognostic biomarkers are needed to improve patient stratification and treatment options. Several putative prognostic and/or predictive biomarkers (eg, alternative lengthening of telomeres, alpha-thalassemia/mental retardation, X-linked (ATRX)/Death Domain Associated Protein (DAXX) loss) have been independently validated. Additionally, recent transcriptomic and epigenetic studies focusing on endocrine differentiation have identified PanNET subtypes that display similarities to either α-cells or β-cells and differ in clinical outcomes. Thus, future prospective studies that incorporate genomic and epigenetic biomarkers are warranted and have translational potential for individualized therapeutic and surveillance strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenzel M Hackeng
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Hussein A Assi
- Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, 820 Harrison Avenue, FGH 2011, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Florine H M Westerbeke
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Lodewijk A A Brosens
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Christopher M Heaphy
- Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, 650 Albany Street, Room 444, Boston, MA 02118, USA; Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, 650 Albany Street, Room 444, Boston, MA 02118, USA.
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9
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Hackeng WM, Brosens LAA, Kim JY, O'Sullivan R, Sung YN, Liu TC, Cao D, Heayn M, Brosnan-Cashman J, An S, Morsink FHM, Heidsma CM, Valk GD, Vriens MR, Nieveen van Dijkum E, Offerhaus GJA, Dreijerink KMA, Zeh H, Zureikat AH, Hogg M, Lee K, Geller D, Marsh JW, Paniccia A, Ongchin M, Pingpank JF, Bahary N, Aijazi M, Brand R, Chennat J, Das R, Fasanella KE, Khalid A, McGrath K, Sarkaria S, Singh H, Slivka A, Nalesnik M, Han X, Nikiforova MN, Lawlor RT, Mafficini A, Rusev B, Corbo V, Luchini C, Bersani S, Pea A, Cingarlini S, Landoni L, Salvia R, Milione M, Milella M, Scarpa A, Hong SM, Heaphy CM, Singhi AD. Non-functional pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours: ATRX/DAXX and alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) are prognostically independent from ARX/PDX1 expression and tumour size. Gut 2022; 71:961-973. [PMID: 33849943 PMCID: PMC8511349 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2020-322595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Recent studies have found aristaless-related homeobox gene (ARX)/pancreatic and duodenal homeobox 1 (PDX1), alpha-thalassemia/mental retardation X-linked (ATRX)/death domain-associated protein (DAXX) and alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) to be promising prognostic biomarkers for non-functional pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours (NF-PanNETs). However, they have not been comprehensively evaluated, especially among small NF-PanNETs (≤2.0 cm). Moreover, their status in neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) from other sites remains unknown. DESIGN An international cohort of 1322 NETs was evaluated by immunolabelling for ARX/PDX1 and ATRX/DAXX, and telomere-specific fluorescence in situ hybridisation for ALT. This cohort included 561 primary NF-PanNETs, 107 NF-PanNET metastases and 654 primary, non-pancreatic non-functional NETs and NET metastases. The results were correlated with numerous clinicopathological features including relapse-free survival (RFS). RESULTS ATRX/DAXX loss and ALT were associated with several adverse prognostic findings and distant metastasis/recurrence (p<0.001). The 5-year RFS rates for patients with ATRX/DAXX-negative and ALT-positive NF-PanNETs were 40% and 42% as compared with 85% and 86% for wild-type NF-PanNETs (p<0.001 and p<0.001). Shorter 5-year RFS rates for ≤2.0 cm NF-PanNETs patients were also seen with ATRX/DAXX loss (65% vs 92%, p=0.003) and ALT (60% vs 93%, p<0.001). By multivariate analysis, ATRX/DAXX and ALT status were independent prognostic factors for RFS. Conversely, classifying NF-PanNETs by ARX/PDX1 expression did not independently correlate with RFS. Except for 4% of pulmonary carcinoids, ATRX/DAXX loss and ALT were only identified in primary (25% and 29%) and NF-PanNET metastases (62% and 71%). CONCLUSIONS ATRX/DAXX and ALT should be considered in the prognostic evaluation of NF-PanNETs including ≤2.0 cm tumours, and are highly specific for pancreatic origin among NET metastases of unknown primary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenzel M Hackeng
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Lodewijk A A Brosens
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Joo Young Kim
- Department of Pathology, Nowon Eulji Medical Center, Eulji University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Roderick O'Sullivan
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - You-Na Sung
- Department of Pathology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ta-Chiang Liu
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St, Louis, MO, USA
| | - Dengfeng Cao
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St, Louis, MO, USA
| | - Michelle Heayn
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | - Soyeon An
- Department of Pathology, Incheon St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Folkert H M Morsink
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Charlotte M Heidsma
- Department of Surgery, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Gerlof D Valk
- Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Menno R Vriens
- Department of Surgery, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - G Johan A Offerhaus
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Koen M A Dreijerink
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Herbert Zeh
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Amer H Zureikat
- Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Melissa Hogg
- Department of Surgery, NorthShore University Health System, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Kenneth Lee
- Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - David Geller
- Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - J Wallis Marsh
- Department of Surgery, West Virginia University Health Sciences Center, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Alessandro Paniccia
- Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Melanie Ongchin
- Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - James F Pingpank
- Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Nathan Bahary
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Muaz Aijazi
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Randall Brand
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jennifer Chennat
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Rohit Das
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Kenneth E Fasanella
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Asif Khalid
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Kevin McGrath
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Savreet Sarkaria
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Harkirat Singh
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Adam Slivka
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Michael Nalesnik
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Xiaoli Han
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Marina N Nikiforova
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Rita Teresa Lawlor
- ARC-Net Centre for Applied Research on Cancer, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Andrea Mafficini
- ARC-Net Centre for Applied Research on Cancer, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Boris Rusev
- ARC-Net Centre for Applied Research on Cancer, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Corbo
- ARC-Net Centre for Applied Research on Cancer, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Claudio Luchini
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
- ENETS Center of Excellence, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Samantha Bersani
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Antonio Pea
- The Pancreas Institute, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Sara Cingarlini
- The Pancreas Institute, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
- Department of Medicine, Section of Oncology, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Luca Landoni
- ENETS Center of Excellence, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
- The Pancreas Institute, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Roberto Salvia
- ENETS Center of Excellence, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
- The Pancreas Institute, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Massimo Milione
- Department of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Michele Milella
- ENETS Center of Excellence, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
- Department of Medicine, Section of Oncology, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Aldo Scarpa
- ARC-Net Centre for Applied Research on Cancer, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
- ENETS Center of Excellence, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Seung-Mo Hong
- Department of Pathology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Christopher M Heaphy
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Aatur D Singhi
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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10
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Kołat D, Kałuzińska Ż, Bednarek AK, Płuciennik E. Prognostic significance of AP-2α/γ targets as cancer therapeutics. Sci Rep 2022; 12:5497. [PMID: 35361846 PMCID: PMC8971500 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-09494-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Identifying genes with prognostic importance could improve cancer treatment. An increasing number of reports suggest the existence of successful strategies based on seemingly "untargetable" transcription factors. In addition to embryogenesis, AP-2 transcription factors are known to play crucial roles in cancer development. Members of this family can be used as prognostic factors in oncological patients, and AP-2α/γ transcription factors were previously investigated in our pan-cancer comparative study using their target genes. The present study investigates tumors that were previously found similar with an emphasis on the possible role of AP-2 factors in specific cancer types. The RData workspace was loaded back to R environment and 3D trajectories were built via Monocle3. The genes that met the requirement of specificity were listed using top_markers(), separately for mutual and unique targets. Furthermore, the candidate genes had to meet the following requirements: correlation with AP-2 factor (through Correlation AnalyzeR) and validated prognostic importance (using GEPIA2 and subsequently KM-plotter or LOGpc). Eventually, the ROC analysis was applied to confirm their predictive value; co-dependence of expression was visualized via BoxPlotR. Some similar tumors were differentiated by AP-2α/γ targets with prognostic value. Requirements were met by only fifteen genes (EMX2, COL7A1, GRIA1, KRT1, KRT14, SLC12A5, SEZ6L, PTPRN, SCG5, DPP6, NTSR1, ARX, COL4A3, PPEF1 and TMEM59L); of these, the last four were excluded based on ROC curves. All the above genes were confronted with the literature, with an emphasis on the possible role played by AP-2 factors in specific cancers. Following ROC analysis, the genes were verified using immunohistochemistry data and progression-related signatures. Staining differences were observed, as well as co-dependence on the expression of e.g. CTNNB1, ERBB2, KRAS, SMAD4, EGFR or MKI67. In conclusion, prognostic value of targets suggested AP-2α/γ as candidates for novel cancer treatment. It was also revealed that AP-2 targets are related to tumor progression and that some mutual target genes could be inversely regulated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damian Kołat
- Department of Molecular Carcinogenesis, Medical University of Lodz, 90-752, Lodz, Poland.
| | - Żaneta Kałuzińska
- Department of Molecular Carcinogenesis, Medical University of Lodz, 90-752, Lodz, Poland
| | - Andrzej K Bednarek
- Department of Molecular Carcinogenesis, Medical University of Lodz, 90-752, Lodz, Poland
| | - Elżbieta Płuciennik
- Department of Molecular Carcinogenesis, Medical University of Lodz, 90-752, Lodz, Poland
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11
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Couvelard A, Cros J. An update on the development of concepts, diagnostic criteria, and challenging issues for neuroendocrine neoplasms across different digestive organs. Virchows Arch 2022; 480:1129-1148. [PMID: 35278097 DOI: 10.1007/s00428-022-03306-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Digestive neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) are a group of heterogeneous neoplasms found throughout the digestive tract, with different behaviour and genetic background. In the last few years, nomenclature and WHO/UICC classifications of digestive NENs have changed, and molecular classifications have emerged, especially in pancreatic locations. Increasing patho-molecular details are needed to diagnose the different categories of NEN, including the use of helpful immunohistochemical markers. In this review, we address these topics in three successive chapters. We first briefly review recent updates in classifications, discuss important grading and proliferating issues and advances in the molecular understanding of NEN. Then, we provide an update on diagnosis, including the most important differential diagnoses of NEN, with a focus on high-grade neoplasms and mixed tumours. Finally, we highlight a variety of currently used and next-generation predictive and prognostic biomarkers as well as biomarkers of tumour origin and describe some site specificities of gastrointestinal NEN. We specifically focus on biomarkers available to pathologists with the potential to change the way patients with NEN are diagnosed and treated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Couvelard
- Department of Pathology of Bichat and Beaujon AP-HP Hospitals, ENETS Centre of Excellence, Université Paris Cité, 46 Rue Henri Huchard, 75018, Paris, France.
| | - Jérôme Cros
- Department of Pathology of Bichat and Beaujon AP-HP Hospitals, ENETS Centre of Excellence, Université Paris Cité, 46 Rue Henri Huchard, 75018, Paris, France
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12
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Dreijerink KM, Hackeng WM, Singhi AD, Heaphy CM, Brosens LA. Clinical implications of cell-of-origin epigenetic characteristics in non-functional pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors. J Pathol 2022; 256:143-148. [PMID: 34750813 DOI: 10.1002/path.5834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Primary non-functional pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (NF-PanNETs) are a heterogeneous group of neuroendocrine neoplasms that display highly variable clinical behavior. Therefore, NF-PanNETs often present clinical teams with a dilemma: the uncertain metastatic potential of the tumor has to be weighed against the morbidity associated with surgical resection. Thus, rather than utilizing current radiologic thresholds, there is an urgent need for improved prognostic biomarkers. Recent studies aimed at understanding the epigenetic underpinnings of NF-PanNETs have led to the identification of tumor subgroups based on histone modification and DNA methylation patterns. These molecular profiles tend to resemble the cellular origins of PanNETs. Subsequent retrospective analyses have demonstrated that these molecular signatures are of prognostic value and, importantly, may be useful in the preoperative setting. These studies have highlighted that sporadic NF-PanNETs displaying biomarkers associated with disease progression and poor prognosis, such as alternative lengthening of telomeres, inactivating alpha thalassemia/mental retardation X-linked (ATRX) or death domain-associated protein (DAXX) gene mutations, or copy number variations, more often display alpha cell characteristics. Conversely, NF-PanNETs with beta cell characteristics often lack these unfavorable biomarkers. Alternative lengthening of telomeres, transcription factor protein expression, and possibly DNA methylation can be assessed in endoscopic ultrasound-guided tumor biopsies. Prospective studies focusing on cell-of-origin and epigenetic profile-driven decision making prior to surgery are likely to be routinely implemented into clinical practice in the near future. © 2021 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koen Ma Dreijerink
- Amsterdam Center for Endocrine and Neuroendocrine Tumors, Department of Endocrinology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wenzel M Hackeng
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Aatur D Singhi
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Christopher M Heaphy
- Departments of Medicine and Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lodewijk Aa Brosens
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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13
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Construction and validation of a novel gene signature for predicting the prognosis of osteosarcoma. Sci Rep 2022; 12:1279. [PMID: 35075228 PMCID: PMC8786962 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-05341-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common type of primary malignant bone tumor. The high-throughput sequencing technology has shown potential abilities to illuminate the pathogenic genes in OS. This study was designed to find a powerful gene signature that can predict clinical outcomes. We selected OS cases with gene expression and survival data in the TARGET-OS dataset and GSE21257 datasets as training cohort and validation cohort, respectively. The univariate Cox regression and Kaplan–Meier analysis were conducted to determine potential prognostic genes from the training cohort. These potential prognostic genes underwent a LASSO regression, which then generated a gene signature. The harvested signature’s predictive ability was further examined by the Kaplan–Meier analysis, Cox analysis, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC curve). More importantly, we listed similar studies in the most recent year and compared theirs with ours. Finally, we performed functional annotation, immune relevant signature correlation identification, and immune infiltrating analysis to better study he functional mechanism of the signature and the immune cells’ roles in the gene signature’s prognosis ability. A seventeen-gene signature (UBE2L3, PLD3, SLC45A4, CLTC, CTNNBIP1, FBXL5, MKL2, SELPLG, C3orf14, WDR53, ZFP90, UHRF2, ARX, CORT, DDX26B, MYC, and SLC16A3) was generated from the LASSO regression. The signature was then confirmed having strong and stable prognostic capacity in all studied cohorts by several statistical methods. We revealed the superiority of our signature after comparing it to our predecessors, and the GO and KEGG annotations uncovered the specifically mechanism of action related to the gene signature. Six immune signatures, including PRF1, CD8A, HAVCR2, LAG3, CD274, and GZMA were identified associating with our signature. The immune-infiltrating analysis recognized the vital roles of T cells CD8 and Mast cells activated, which potentially support the seventeen-gene signature’s prognosis ability. We identified a robust seventeen-gene signature that can accurately predict OS prognosis. We identified potential immunotherapy targets to the gene signature. The T cells CD8 and Mast cells activated were identified linked with the seventeen-gene signature predictive power.
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14
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Ciobanu OA, Martin S, Fica S. Perspectives on the diagnostic, predictive and prognostic markers of neuroendocrine neoplasms (Review). Exp Ther Med 2021; 22:1479. [PMID: 34765020 PMCID: PMC8576627 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.10914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) are a heterogeneous group of rare tumors with different types of physiology and prognosis. Therefore, prognostic information, including morphological differentiation, grade, tumor stage and primary location, are invaluable and contribute to the formulation of treatment decisions. Biomarkers that are currently used, including chromogranin A (CgA), serotonin and neuron-specific enolase, are singular parameters that cannot be used to accurately predict variables associated with tumor growth, including proliferation, metabolic rate and metastatic potential. In addition, site-specific biomarkers, such as insulin and gastrin, cannot be applied to all types of NENs. The clinical application of broad-spectrum markers, as it is the case for CgA, remains controversial despite being widely used. Due to limitations of the currently available mono-analyte biomarkers, recent studies were conducted to explore novel parameters for NEN diagnosis, prognosis, therapy stratification and evaluation of treatment response. Identification of prognostic factors for predicting NEN outcome is a critical requirement for the planning of adequate clinical management. Advances in ‘liquid’ biopsies and genomic analysis techniques, including microRNA, circulating tumor DNA or circulating tumor cells and sophisticated biomathematical analysis techniques, such as NETest or molecular image-based biomarkers, are currently under investigation as potentially novel tools for the management of NENs in the future. Despite these recent findings yielding promising observations, further research is necessary. The present review therefore summarizes the existing knowledge and recent advancements in the exploration of biochemical markers for NENs, with focus on gastroenteropancreatic-neuroendocrine tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oana Alexandra Ciobanu
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Elias Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Endocrinology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 20021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Sorina Martin
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Elias Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Endocrinology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 20021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Simona Fica
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Elias Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Endocrinology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 20021 Bucharest, Romania
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15
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Heaphy CM, VandenBussche CJ. Prognostic biomarkers in pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors. Cancer Cytopathol 2021; 129:841-843. [PMID: 34242496 DOI: 10.1002/cncy.22457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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16
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MacKenzie D, Watters AK, To JT, Young MW, Muratori J, Wilkoff MH, Abraham RG, Plummer MM, Zhang D. ALT Positivity in Human Cancers: Prevalence and Clinical Insights. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:2384. [PMID: 34069193 PMCID: PMC8156225 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13102384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Many exciting advances in cancer-related telomere biology have been made in the past decade. Of these recent advances, great progress has also been made with respect to the Alternative Lengthening of Telomeres (ALT) pathway. Along with a better understanding of the molecular mechanism of this unique telomere maintenance pathway, many studies have also evaluated ALT activity in various cancer subtypes. We first briefly review and assess a variety of commonly used ALT biomarkers. Then, we provide both an update on ALT-positive (ALT+) tumor prevalence as well as a systematic clinical assessment of the presently studied ALT+ malignancies. Additionally, we discuss the pathogenetic alterations in ALT+ cancers, for example, the mutation status of ATRX and DAXX, and their correlations with the activation of the ALT pathway. Finally, we highlight important ALT+ clinical associations within each cancer subtype and subdivisions within, as well as their prognoses. We hope this alternative perspective will allow scientists, clinicians, and drug developers to have greater insight into the ALT cancers so that together, we may develop more efficacious treatments and improved management strategies to meet the urgent needs of cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Maria M. Plummer
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Osteopathic Medicine, New York Institute of Technology, Old Westbury, NY 11568, USA; (D.M.J.); (A.K.W.); (J.T.T.); (M.W.Y.); (J.M.); (M.H.W.); (R.G.A.)
| | - Dong Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Osteopathic Medicine, New York Institute of Technology, Old Westbury, NY 11568, USA; (D.M.J.); (A.K.W.); (J.T.T.); (M.W.Y.); (J.M.); (M.H.W.); (R.G.A.)
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17
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Calissendorff J, Bjellerup-Calissendorff F, Bränström R, Juhlin CC, Falhammar H. Characteristics, Treatment, Outcomes, and Survival in Neuroendocrine G1 and G2 Pancreatic Tumors: Experiences From a Single Tertiary Referral Center. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:657698. [PMID: 33927695 PMCID: PMC8076901 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.657698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Neuroendocrine tumors of the pancreas (Pan-NETs) are usually hormonally inactive with a capacity to metastasize. Since Pan-NETs are rare, more knowledge is needed. Methods We reviewed all patients' medical files with Pan-NET treated at a tertiary center (2006-2019). Grade 1 (G1) and grade 2 (G2) tumors were compared. The latter group was subdivided arbitrarily based on proliferation index into G2a (3-9.9%) and G2b (10-19.9%). Results We found 137 patients (76 females, 61 males; G1 n=66, G2 n=42), the median age at diagnosis 61 years (interquartile range (IQR) 50-71), and tumor size 2 cm (1.3-5 cm). The initial surgery was performed in 101 patients. The remaining (n=36) were followed conservatively. Metastatic disease was evident in 22 patients (16%) at diagnosis while new lesions developed in 13 out of 22 patients (59%). In patients without previous metastatic disease, progressive disease was discovered in 29% of G1 vs. 55% of G2 patients (P=0.009), 47% of G2a vs. 75% of G2b patients (NS). Survival was poorer in patients with metastasis at diagnosis vs. those with local disease (P<0.001). During follow-up of 74 months, Pan-NET related death was found in 10 patients. Survival was not different between G1 vs. G2 or G2a vs. G2b, or if tumors were functional. Size ≤2 cm was associated with a better outcome (P=0.004). During the follow-up of small tumors (≤2 cm, n=36) two were resected. Conclusion In small non-functional Pan-NETs, active surveillance is reasonable. Progressive disease was more common in G2, but survival was similar in G1, G2 and between G2 subgroups. Survival was poorer in patients with metastasis at diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Calissendorff
- Department of Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Freja Bjellerup-Calissendorff
- Department of Pathology, Västmanland County Hospital, Västerås, Sweden
- Center for Clinical Research, Uppsala University, Västmanland County Hospital, Västerås, Sweden
| | - Robert Bränström
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Breast, Endocrine and Sarcoma Surgery, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - C. Christofer Juhlin
- Department of Clinical Pathology and Cytology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Henrik Falhammar
- Department of Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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18
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Ishii T, Katanuma A, Toyonaga H, Chikugo K, Nasuno H, Kin T, Hayashi T, Takahashi K. Role of Endoscopic Ultrasound in the Diagnosis of Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Neoplasms. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11020316. [PMID: 33672085 PMCID: PMC7919683 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11020316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Although pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (PNENs) are relatively rare tumors, their number is increasing with advances in diagnostic imaging modalities. Even small lesions that are difficult to detect using computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging can now be detected with endoscopic ultrasound (EUS). Contrast-enhanced EUS is useful, and not only diagnosis but also malignancy detection has become possible by evaluating the vascularity of tumors. Pathological diagnosis using EUS with fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) is useful when diagnostic imaging is difficult. EUS-FNA can also be used to evaluate the grade of malignancy. Pooling the data of the studies that compared the PNENs grading between EUS-FNA samples and surgical specimens showed a concordance rate of 77.5% (κ-statistic = 0.65, 95% confidence interval = 0.59–0.71, p < 0.01). Stratified analysis for small tumor size (2 cm) showed that the concordance rate was 84.5% and the kappa correlation index was 0.59 (95% confidence interval = 0.43–0.74, p < 0.01). The evolution of ultrasound imaging technologies such as contrast-enhanced and elastography and the artificial intelligence that analyzes them, the evolution of needles, and genetic analysis, will further develop the diagnosis and treatment of PNENs in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatsuya Ishii
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-11-681-8111; Fax: +81-11-685-2967
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19
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Sadowski SM, Pieterman CRC, Perrier ND, Triponez F, Valk GD. Prognostic factors for the outcome of nonfunctioning pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors in MEN1: a systematic review of literature. Endocr Relat Cancer 2020; 27:R145-R161. [PMID: 32229700 PMCID: PMC7304521 DOI: 10.1530/erc-19-0372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Metastatic duodenopancreatic neuro-endocrine tumors (dpNETs) are the most important disease-related cause of death in patients with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1). Nonfunctioning pNETs (NF-pNETs) are highly prevalent in MEN1 and clinically heterogeneous. Therefore, management is controversial. Data on prognostic factors for risk stratification are limited. This systematic review aims to establish the current state of evidence regarding prognostic factors in MEN1-related NF-pNETs. We systematically searched four databases for studies assessing prognostic value of any factor on NF-pNET progression, development of distant metastases, and/or overall survival. In- and exclusion, critical appraisal and data-extraction were performed independently by two authors according to pre-defined criteria. Thirteen studies (370 unique patients) were included. Prognostic factors investigated were tumor size, timing of surgical resection, WHO grade, methylation, p27/p18 expression by immunohistochemistry (IHC), ARX/PDX1 IHC and alternative lengthening of telomeres. Results were complemented with evidence from studies in MEN1-related pNET for which data could not be separately extracted for NF-pNET and data from sporadic NF-pNET. We found that the most important prognostic factors used in clinical decision making in MEN1-related NF-pNETs are tumor size and grade. NF-pNETs <2 cm may be managed with watchful waiting, while surgical resection is advised for NF-pNETs ≥2 cm. Grade 2 NF-pNETs should be considered high risk. The most promising and MEN1-relevant avenues of prognostic research are multi-analyte circulating biomarkers, tissue-based molecular factors and imaging-based prognostication. Multi-institutional collaboration between clinical, translation and basic scientists with uniform data and biospecimen collection in prospective cohorts should advance the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- S M Sadowski
- Endocrine Surgery, Surgical Oncology Program, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - C R C Pieterman
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Section of Surgical Endocrinology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Endocrine Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - N D Perrier
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Section of Surgical Endocrinology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - F Triponez
- Thoracic and Endocrine Surgery and Faculty of Medicine, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - G D Valk
- Department of Endocrine Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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20
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Hackeng WM, Schelhaas W, Morsink FHM, Heidsma CM, van Eeden S, Valk GD, Vriens MR, Heaphy CM, Nieveen van Dijkum EJM, Offerhaus GJA, Dreijerink KMA, Brosens LAA. Alternative Lengthening of Telomeres and Differential Expression of Endocrine Transcription Factors Distinguish Metastatic and Non-metastatic Insulinomas. Endocr Pathol 2020; 31:108-118. [PMID: 32103422 PMCID: PMC7250793 DOI: 10.1007/s12022-020-09611-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Insulin-producing pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PanNETs)/insulinomas are generally considered to be indolent tumors with an excellent prognosis after complete resection. However, some insulinomas have a poor prognosis due to relapses and metastatic disease. Recently, studies in non-functional PanNETs indicated that behavior can be stratified according to alpha- and beta-cell differentiation, as defined by expression of the transcription factors ARX and PDX1, respectively. It is unknown whether similar mechanisms play a role in insulinomas. Therefore, we determined ARX and PDX1 expression in a cohort of 35 sporadic primary insulinomas and two liver metastases of inoperable primary insulinomas. In addition, WHO grade and loss of ATRX or DAXX were determined by immunohistochemistry, and alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) and CDKN2A status by fluorescence in situ hybridization. These findings were correlated with tumor characteristics and clinical follow-up data. In total, five out of 37 insulinoma patients developed metastatic disease. Metastatic insulinomas were all larger than 3 cm, whereas the indolent insulinomas were smaller (p value < 0.05). All three primary insulinomas that metastasized showed ARX expression, 2/3 showed ALT, and 1/3 had a homozygous deletion of CDKN2A as opposed to absence of ARX expression, ALT, or CDKN2A deletions in the 32 non-metastatic cases. The two liver metastases also showed ARX expression and ALT (2/2). The presence of ARX expression, which is usually absent in beta-cells, and genetic alterations not seen in indolent insulinomas strongly suggest a distinct tumorigenic mechanism in malignant insulinomas, with similarities to non-functional PanNETs. These observations may inform future follow-up strategies after insulinoma surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenzel M Hackeng
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Willemien Schelhaas
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Folkert H M Morsink
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Charlotte M Heidsma
- Department of Surgery, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Susanne van Eeden
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Gerlof D Valk
- Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Menno R Vriens
- Department of Surgery, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - G Johan A Offerhaus
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Koen M A Dreijerink
- Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lodewijk A A Brosens
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Hackeng WM, Morsink FHM, Moons LMG, Heaphy CM, Offerhaus GJA, Dreijerink KMA, Brosens LAA. Assessment of ARX expression, a novel biomarker for metastatic risk in pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors, in endoscopic ultrasound fine-needle aspiration. Diagn Cytopathol 2019; 48:308-315. [PMID: 31846235 PMCID: PMC7079001 DOI: 10.1002/dc.24368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Revised: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The transcription factors ARX and PDX1, and alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) were recently described as prognostic markers for resected non-functional pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PanNETs). ALT positive tumors with ARX expression relapse most often. Currently, tumor size is the only preoperative marker used to decide whether or not to operate, thus additional preoperative prognostic markers are needed. Therefore, it is critical to assess the performance of these biomarkers on preoperative cytologic specimens. METHODS Endoscopic fine-needle aspiration cellblock material and corresponding surgical specimens of 13 patients with PanNETs were assessed for histology, immunohistochemical staining of ARX, PDX1, Synaptophysin, Ki67, and telomere-specific fluorescence in situ hybridization to detect ALT, and then associated with clinicopathological features. Scoring for ARX and PDX1 was performed blinded by two independent observers. RESULTS Of the 13 surgical specimens, 8 were ARX+/PDX1-, 2 ARX-/PDX1+, and 3 ARX+/PDX1+. Concordance between cytologic and surgical specimens for ARX protein expression was 100%, whereas concordance for PDX1, ALT, and WHO tumor grade was 85%, 91%, and 73%, respectively. There was a perfect inter-observer agreement in ARX and PDX1 scoring. CONCLUSION ARX can reliably be determined in cytologic specimens and has low inter-observer variability. For cytology, false-positive PDX1 expression was observed, possibly due to contamination or sampling, while ALT had a false-negative case due to incomplete sampling. As previously observed, tumor grade is underestimated in cytologic specimens. Thus, ARX and ALT are the most promising markers to predict metastatic behavior in PanNETs, thereby warranting further validation in larger studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenzel M Hackeng
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Folkert H M Morsink
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Leon M G Moons
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Christopher M Heaphy
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - G Johan A Offerhaus
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Koen M A Dreijerink
- Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lodewijk A A Brosens
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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