1
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Pozzi V, Molinelli E, Campagna R, Serritelli EN, Cecati M, De Simoni E, Sartini D, Goteri G, Martin NI, van Haren MJ, Salvolini E, Simonetti O, Offidani A, Emanuelli M. Knockdown of nicotinamide N-methyltransferase suppresses proliferation, migration, and chemoresistance of Merkel cell carcinoma cells in vitro. Hum Cell 2024; 37:729-738. [PMID: 38504052 PMCID: PMC11016511 DOI: 10.1007/s13577-024-01047-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an aggressive skin cancer, with a propensity for early metastasis. Therefore, early diagnosis and the identification of novel targets become fundamental. The enzyme nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT) catalyzes the reaction of N-methylation of nicotinamide and other analogous compounds. Although NNMT overexpression was reported in many malignancies, the significance of its dysregulation in cancer cell phenotype was partly clarified. Several works demonstrated that NNMT promotes cancer cell proliferation, migration, and chemoresistance. In this study, we investigated the possible involvement of this enzyme in MCC. Preliminary immunohistochemical analyses were performed to evaluate NNMT expression in MCC tissue specimens. To explore the enzyme function in tumor cell metabolism, MCC cell lines have been transfected with plasmids encoding for short hairpin RNAs (shRNAs) targeting NNMT mRNA. Preliminary immunohistochemical analyses showed elevated NNMT expression in MCC tissue specimens. The effect of enzyme downregulation on cell proliferation, migration, and chemosensitivity was then evaluated through MTT, trypan blue, and wound healing assays. Data obtained clearly demonstrated that NNMT knockdown is associated with a decrease of cell proliferation, viability, and migration, as well as with enhanced sensitivity to treatment with chemotherapeutic drugs. Taken together, these results suggest that NNMT could represent an interesting MCC biomarker and a promising target for targeted anti-cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Pozzi
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60020, Ancona, Italy
| | - Elisa Molinelli
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60020, Ancona, Italy
| | - Roberto Campagna
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60020, Ancona, Italy.
| | - Emma N Serritelli
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60020, Ancona, Italy
| | - Monia Cecati
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60020, Ancona, Italy
| | - Edoardo De Simoni
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60020, Ancona, Italy
| | - Davide Sartini
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60020, Ancona, Italy.
| | - Gaia Goteri
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60020, Ancona, Italy
| | - Nathaniel I Martin
- Biological Chemistry Group, Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, Sylviusweg 72, 2333 BE, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Matthijs J van Haren
- Biological Chemistry Group, Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, Sylviusweg 72, 2333 BE, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Eleonora Salvolini
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60020, Ancona, Italy
| | - Oriana Simonetti
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60020, Ancona, Italy
| | - Annamaria Offidani
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60020, Ancona, Italy
| | - Monica Emanuelli
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60020, Ancona, Italy
- New York-Marche Structural Biology Center (NY-MaSBiC), Polytechnic University of Marche, 60131, Ancona, Italy
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2
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Ito S, Chambers JK, Sumi A, Omachi T, Haritani M, Nakayama H, Uchida K. Genomic integration and expression of Felis catus papillomavirus type 2 oncogenes in feline Merkel cell carcinoma. Vet Pathol 2023; 60:21-34. [PMID: 36384374 DOI: 10.1177/03009858221139197] [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] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The involvement of Felis catus papillomavirus type 2 (FcaPV2) in feline Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) has been previously hypothesized. In this study, the expression and localization of FcaPV2 oncogene mRNA, the integration of FcaPV2 genes, and p53 mutations in feline MCC were examined by RNAscope in situ hybridization (ISH), whole genome sequencing (WGS), and Sanger DNA sequencing, respectively. Furthermore, the morphological and molecular characteristics of FcaPV2-positive (FMX-MCC01) and FcaPV2-negative (AS-MCC01) MCC cell lines were compared in vitro and in vivo using immunofluorescence, ISH, xenotransplantation into mice, and immunohistochemistry. ISH for FcaPV2 E6/E7 detected viral RNA in 18/21 FcaPV2-positive MCC and not in 1/1 FcaPV2-negative MCC. WGS of 2 FcaPV2-positive cases revealed the integration of FcaPV2 genes in both cases. In cultured cells and xenograft tissues of FMX-MCC01, most cells were positive for E6/E7 by ISH and p16CDKN2A, a few cells were positive for the retinoblastoma protein (pRb), and all cells were negative for p53. In cultured cells and xenograft tissues of AS-MCC01, all cells were negative for p16CDKN2A, most cells were positive for pRb, and some cells were positive for p53. Missense mutations in p53 were identified in 8/10 FcaPV2-positive and 1/1 FcaPV2-negative MCC. These results suggest that the expression of integrated FcaPV2 oncogenes might be associated with reduced expression of the tumor suppressor proteins pRb and p53 and might contribute to the development of feline MCC. On the other hand, p53 mutations may be involved in both FcaPV2-positive and FcaPV2-negative MCC tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soma Ito
- The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Ayumi Sumi
- The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
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3
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Harms PW, Verhaegen ME, Vo JN, Tien JC, Pratt D, Su F, Dhanasekaran SM, Cao X, Mangelberger D, VanGoor J, Choi JE, Ma VT, Dlugosz AA, Chinnaiyan AM. Viral Status Predicts the Patterns of Genome Methylation and Decitabine Response in Merkel Cell Carcinoma. J Invest Dermatol 2022; 142:641-652. [PMID: 34474081 PMCID: PMC8860850 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2021.07.173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an aggressive cutaneous neuroendocrine carcinoma that is classified as Merkel cell polyomavirus-positive (virus positive [VP]) or Merkel cell polyomavirus-negative (virus negative [VN]). Epigenetic changes, such as DNA methylation, can alter gene expression and influence cancer progression. However, patterns of DNA methylation and the therapeutic efficacy of hypomethylating agents have not been fully explored in MCC. We characterized genome-wide DNA methylation in 16 MCC cell lines from both molecular subclasses in comparison with other cancer types and found that the overall profile of MCC is similar to that of small-cell lung carcinoma. Comparison of VP MCC with VN MCC revealed 2,260 differentially methylated positions. The hypomethylating agent decitabine upregulated the expression of antigen-presenting machinery in MCC cell lines and stimulated membrane expression of HLA-A in VP and VN MCC xenograft tumors. Decitabine also induced prominent caspase- and large T antigen‒independent cell death in VP MCC, whereas VN MCC cell lines displayed decreased proliferation without increased cell death. In mouse xenografts, decitabine significantly decreased the size of VP tumors but not that of VN tumors. Our findings indicate that viral status predicts genomic methylation patterns in MCC and that decitabine may be therapeutically effective against MCC through antiproliferative effects, cell death, and increased immune recognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul W. Harms
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA,Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA,Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA,Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | | | - Josh N. Vo
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA,Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Jean C. Tien
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA,Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Drew Pratt
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Fengyun Su
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA,Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Saravana M. Dhanasekaran
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA,Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Xuhong Cao
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA,Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Doris Mangelberger
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Julia VanGoor
- College of Literature, Science, and the Arts, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Jae Eun Choi
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA,Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Vincent T. Ma
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Andrzej A. Dlugosz
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA,Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA,Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Arul M. Chinnaiyan
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA,Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA,Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA,Department of Urology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA,Corresponding Author: Arul M. Chinnaiyan, M.D., Ph.D., Investigator, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, American Cancer Society Professor, S. P. Hicks Endowed Professor of Pathology, Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan Medical School, 1400 E. Medical Center Dr. 5316 CCGC, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-0602,
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4
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Jaatinen J, Veija T, Salmikangas M, Böhling T, Sihto H, Koljonen V. ALK is frequently phosphorylated in Merkel cell carcinoma and associates with longer survival. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0252099. [PMID: 34029351 PMCID: PMC8143417 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0252099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare skin cancer with only limited therapeutic options for advanced disease. We previously showed that oncogene ALK is frequently expressed at the RNA level in MCC and further that ALK positivity by immunohistochemistry is frequent and correlates strongly with Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) positivity. In this study, we investigated whether ALK receptor is active in MCC tumor samples and MCC cell lines, and whether ALK would be a prospective treatment target in MCC. We utilized tissue microarrays constructed from 136 primary MCC tumor samples as well as nine previously established MCC cell lines to determine the presence of ALK and phosphorylated ALK (p-ALK) via immunohistochemistry. Almost half of the analyzed MCC tumors displayed ALK phosphorylation (47.8%). Analysis of MCC tumor samples revealed that the presence of p-ALK correlated to MCPyV positivity, younger age, nonexistence of metastases at diagnosis and ultimately to better MCC-specific survival. In contrast to MCC tumor samples only two out of nine MCC cell lines showed only low ALK phosphorylation by immunohistochemistry. Our study reveals clear disparity in ALK activity between patient derived tumors and cell line samples and therefore, more advanced disease models such as xenografts are necessary to resolve whether ALK is a useful treatment target in MCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenni Jaatinen
- Department of Pathology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tuukka Veija
- Department of Pathology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Tom Böhling
- Department of Pathology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Harri Sihto
- Department of Pathology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Virve Koljonen
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
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5
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Distinct Signatures of Genomic Copy Number Variants Define Subgroups of Merkel Cell Carcinoma Tumors. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13051134. [PMID: 33800889 PMCID: PMC7961454 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13051134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cancer results from genetic changes in cells. These changes are often mutations that alter the DNA sequence of critical genes. However, duplications and deletions in cancer-related genes can also contribute to malignant transformation. In this study we use Nanostring technology to assess DNA copy number changes in samples of Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), a rare and aggressive neuroendocrine skin tumor. We were able to identify recurrent amplifications and deletions in cancer-related genes. We also found that MCC tumors grouped into three distinct copy number variant profiles. The first group consisted of tumors with multiple deletions. The second group contained tumors with low levels of genomic structural alterations. The last group comprised tumors containing multiple amplifications. Our study suggests that most MCC tumors are associated with deletions in cancer-related genes or are lacking in copy number changes, whereas a small percentage of tumors are associated with genomic amplifications. Abstract Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare, aggressive neuroendocrine skin cancer. Most MCC tumors contain integrated Merkel cell polyomavirus DNA (virus-positive MCC, VP-MCC) and carry a low somatic mutation burden whereas virus-negative MCC (VN-MCC) possess numerous ultraviolet-signature mutations. In contrast to viral oncogenes and sequence mutations, little is known about genomic structural variants in MCC. To identify copy number variants in commonly altered genes, we analyzed genomic DNA from 31 tumor samples using the Nanostring nCounter copy number cancer panel. Unsupervised clustering revealed three tumor groups with distinct genomic structural variant signatures. The first cluster was characterized by multiple recurrent deletions in genes such as RB1 and WT1. The second cluster contained eight VP-MCC and displayed very few structural variations. The final cluster contained one VP-MCC and four VN-MCC with predominantly genomic amplifications in genes like MDM4, SKP2, and KIT and deletions in TP53. Overall, VN-MCC contained more structure variation than VP-MCC but did not cluster separately from VP-MCC. The observation that most MCC tumors demonstrate a deletion-dominated structural group signature, independent of virus status, suggests a shared pathophysiology among most VP-MCC and VN-MCC tumors.
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6
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Gravemeyer J, Lange A, Ritter C, Spassova I, Song L, Picard D, Remke M, Horny K, Sriram A, Gambichler T, Schadendorf D, Hoffmann D, Becker JC. Classical and Variant Merkel Cell Carcinoma Cell Lines Display Different Degrees of Neuroendocrine Differentiation and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition. J Invest Dermatol 2021; 141:1675-1686.e4. [PMID: 33600825 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2021.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an aggressive neuroendocrine skin cancer characterized by high invasiveness, early metastases, and high mortality. Because of the lack of suitable animal models, most functional studies are performed using cell lines, some of which lack classical neuroendocrine growth characteristics. Here, we scrutinized the molecular characteristics of classical MCC and variant MCC cell lines by differential gene expression and the respective epigenetic regulation by microRNAs and DNA methylation. Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma cell lines were used for comparison. The most striking observation was a lower expression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition-related genes in classical MCCs, which was accompanied by higher expression of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition-regulating microRNA clusters miR-200c-141 and miR-183-96-182 and hypomethylation of the respective microRNA loci. Experimental expression of the MCC lineage factor ATOH1 in variant MCCs resulted in an increased expression of miR-200c-141 paralleled by a reduction of genes associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition, thus demonstrating a connection between neuroendocrine characteristics and the lack of epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Together, our observations not only reinforce concerns about the use of variant MCCs as proper MCC representatives, but also suggest variant MCCs as cells locked in an intermediate state between neuroendocrine and epithelial differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Gravemeyer
- Group of Translational Skin Cancer Research (TSCR), University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) & German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Anja Lange
- Bioinformatics and Computational Biophysics, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Cathrin Ritter
- Group of Translational Skin Cancer Research (TSCR), University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) & German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ivelina Spassova
- Group of Translational Skin Cancer Research (TSCR), University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Lina Song
- Group of Translational Skin Cancer Research (TSCR), University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Daniel Picard
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) & German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany; Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology and Clinical Immunology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Marc Remke
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) & German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany; Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology and Clinical Immunology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Kai Horny
- Group of Translational Skin Cancer Research (TSCR), University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) & German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ashwin Sriram
- Group of Translational Skin Cancer Research (TSCR), University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) & German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thilo Gambichler
- Skin Cancer Center, Department for Dermatology, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Dirk Schadendorf
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Daniel Hoffmann
- Bioinformatics and Computational Biophysics, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Jürgen C Becker
- Group of Translational Skin Cancer Research (TSCR), University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) & German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany; Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany.
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7
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Mutational Landscape of Virus- and UV-Associated Merkel Cell Carcinoma Cell Lines Is Comparable to Tumor Tissue. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13040649. [PMID: 33562873 PMCID: PMC7914758 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13040649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an aggressive, rare skin cancer which is caused either by a virus or chronic UV exposure. For both forms, distinct genetic alterations have been described; however, these observations were mostly made in tumor tissue. Since cancer cell lines are frequently used as preclinical models to investigate biological function, we considered it necessary to establish the genomic landscape of MCC cell lines by whole-exome sequencing. We confirmed the presence of UV-induced DNA damage, a high number of mutations and several coding mutations in virus-negative cell lines which were absent in virus-positive cell lines; these, however, harbored characteristic copy number variations, suggesting some virally caused genetic instability. Knowing the genomic features of MCC cell lines validates previous, and facilitates upcoming, experimental studies to discover their biological and translational relevance. Abstract Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare, highly aggressive cutaneous malignancy that is either associated with the integration of the Merkel cell polyomavirus or chronic UV exposure. These two types of carcinogenesis are reflected in characteristic mutational features present in MCC tumor lesions. However, the genomic characteristics of MCC cell lines used as preclinical models are not well established. Thus, we analyzed the exomes of three virus-negative and six virus-positive MCC cell lines, all showing a classical neuroendocrine growth pattern. Virus-negative cell lines are characterized by a high tumor mutational burden (TMB), UV-light-induced DNA damage, functionally relevant coding mutations, e.g., in RB1 and TP53, and large amounts of copy number variations (CNVs). In contrast, virus-positive cell lines have a low TMB with few coding mutations and lack prominent mutational signatures, but harbor characteristic CNVs. One of the virus-negative cell lines has a local MYC amplification associated with high MYC mRNA expression. In conclusion, virus-positive and -negative MCC cell lines with a neuroendocrine growth pattern resemble mutational features observed in MCC tissue samples, which strengthens their utility for functional studies.
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Merkel Cell Polyomavirus Encodes Circular RNAs (circRNAs) Enabling a Dynamic circRNA/microRNA/mRNA Regulatory Network. mBio 2020; 11:mBio.03059-20. [PMID: 33323517 PMCID: PMC7773998 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.03059-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Viral noncoding RNAs have acquired increasing prominence as important regulators of infection and mediators of pathogenesis. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) generated by backsplicing events have been identified in several oncogenic human DNA viruses. Here, we show that Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCV), the etiologic cause of ∼80% of Merkel cell carcinomas (MCCs), also expresses circular RNAs. By RNase R-resistant RNA sequencing, four putative circRNA backsplice junctions (BSJs) were identified from the MCV early region (ER). The most abundantly expressed MCV circRNA, designated circMCV-T, is generated through backsplicing of all of ER exon II to form a 762-nucleotide (nt) circular RNA molecule. Curiously, circMCV-T, as well as two other less abundantly expressed putative MCV circRNAs, overlaps in a complementary fashion with the MCV microRNA (miRNA) locus that encodes MCV-miR-M1. circMCV-T is consistently detected in concert with linear T antigen transcripts throughout infection, suggesting a crucial role for this RNA molecule in the regulatory functions of the early region, known to be vital for viral replication. Knocking out the hairpin structure of MCV-miR-M1 in genomic early region expression constructs and using a new high-efficiency, recombinase-mediated, recircularized MCV molecular clone demonstrates that circMCV-T levels decrease in the presence of MCV-miR-M1, underscoring the interplay between MCV circRNA and miRNA. Furthermore, circMCV-T partially reverses the known inhibitory effect of MCV-miR-M1 on early gene expression. RNase R-resistant RNA sequencing of lytic rat polyomavirus 2 (RatPyV2) identified an analogously located circRNA, stipulating a crucial, conserved regulatory function of this class of RNA molecules in the family of polyomaviruses.IMPORTANCE Covalently closed circular RNAs were recently described in the human DNA tumor viruses Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV), and human papillomavirus (HPV). Here, we show that MCV, another DNA tumor virus, generates circRNAs from its early regulatory region in concert with T antigen linear transcripts. MCV circMCV-T interacts with another MCV noncoding RNA, miR-M1, to functionally modulate early region transcript expression important for viral replication and long-term episomal persistence. This work describes a dynamic regulatory network integrating circRNA/miRNA/mRNA biomolecules and underscores the intricate functional modulation between several classes of polyomavirus-encoded RNAs in the control of viral replication.
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Chteinberg E, Vogt J, Kolarova J, Bormann F, van den Oord J, Speel EJ, Winnepenninckx V, Kurz AK, Zenke M, Siebert R, Hausen AZ. The curious case of Merkel cell carcinoma: epigenetic youth and lack of pluripotency. Epigenetics 2020; 15:1319-1324. [PMID: 32475296 PMCID: PMC7678933 DOI: 10.1080/15592294.2020.1773096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a very rare, but highly aggressive skin cancer which occurs mainly in elderly patients. MCC cells show an expression pattern of three cell lineages: epithelial, neuroendocrine, and B-cell progenitor. This trilinear expression pattern suggests stemness activity in MCC. The etiopathogenesis of MCC is either linked to the Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) or in a smaller proportion (20%) to high levels of UV-induced somatic mutations. Both viral presence and accumulation of mutations have been shown to be associated with accelerated DNA methylation Age (DNAmAge) compared to chronological age. The MCC DNAmAge was significantly lower compared to the chronological age, which was irrespective of the viral presence or mutational burden. Although these features indicate some aspects of stemness in MCC cells, gene-expression-based pluripotency testing did not provide evidence for pluripotency of MCC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emil Chteinberg
- Department of Pathology, GROW-School for Oncology & Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Medical Centre+ , Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Department of Cell Biology, RWTH Aachen, University Hospital , Aachen, Germany.,Helmholtz Institute for Biomedical Engineering, RWTH Aachen University , Aachen, Germany
| | - Julia Vogt
- Institute of Human Genetics, Ulm University and Ulm University Medical Center , Ulm, Germany
| | - Julia Kolarova
- Institute of Human Genetics, Ulm University and Ulm University Medical Center , Ulm, Germany
| | | | - Joost van den Oord
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Translational Cell and Tissue Research, University of Leuven , KU, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ernst Jan Speel
- Department of Pathology, GROW-School for Oncology & Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Medical Centre+ , Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Véronique Winnepenninckx
- Department of Pathology, GROW-School for Oncology & Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Medical Centre+ , Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Anna Kordelia Kurz
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, University Hospital Aachen , Aachen, Germany
| | - Martin Zenke
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Department of Cell Biology, RWTH Aachen, University Hospital , Aachen, Germany.,Helmholtz Institute for Biomedical Engineering, RWTH Aachen University , Aachen, Germany
| | - Reiner Siebert
- Institute of Human Genetics, Ulm University and Ulm University Medical Center , Ulm, Germany
| | - Axel Zur Hausen
- Department of Pathology, GROW-School for Oncology & Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Medical Centre+ , Maastricht, The Netherlands
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10
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Artesunate Affects T Antigen Expression and Survival of Virus-Positive Merkel Cell Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12040919. [PMID: 32283634 PMCID: PMC7225937 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12040919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Revised: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and highly aggressive skin cancer with frequent viral etiology. Indeed, in about 80% of cases, there is an association with Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV); the expression of viral T antigens is crucial for growth of virus-positive tumor cells. Since artesunate—a drug used to treat malaria—has been reported to possess additional anti-tumor as well as anti-viral activity, we sought to evaluate pre-clinically the effect of artesunate on MCC. We found that artesunate repressed growth and survival of MCPyV-positive MCC cells in vitro. This effect was accompanied by reduced large T antigen (LT) expression. Notably, however, it was even more efficient than shRNA-mediated downregulation of LT expression. Interestingly, in one MCC cell line (WaGa), T antigen knockdown rendered cells less sensitive to artesunate, while for two other MCC cell lines, we could not substantiate such a relation. Mechanistically, artesunate predominantly induces ferroptosis in MCPyV-positive MCC cells since known ferroptosis-inhibitors like DFO, BAF-A1, Fer-1 and β-mercaptoethanol reduced artesunate-induced death. Finally, application of artesunate in xenotransplanted mice demonstrated that growth of established MCC tumors can be significantly suppressed in vivo. In conclusion, our results revealed a highly anti-proliferative effect of the approved and generally well-tolerated anti-malaria compound artesunate on MCPyV-positive MCC cells, suggesting its potential usage for MCC therapy.
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11
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Samimi M, Benlalam H, Aumond P, Gaboriaud P, Fradin D, Kervarrec T, Florenceau L, Vignard V, Blom A, Touzé A, Gervois N, Labarriere N. Viral and tumor antigen-specific CD8 T-cell responses in Merkel cell carcinoma. Cell Immunol 2019; 344:103961. [PMID: 31472938 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2019.103961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and aggressive cutaneous cancer, which is immunogenic, regardless of the presence of MCPyV (80% of cases). The identification of MCC-specific epitopes recognized by CD8 T cells is crucial to expand the arsenal of immunotherapeutic treatments. Until now, most efforts focused on the identification of virus-specific epitopes, whereas immune responses directed against shared cellular tumor-specific antigens have not been evidenced. In this study, we measured T-cell responses against viral (n = 3) and tumor antigens (n = 47) from TILs derived from 21 MCC tumors. Virus-specific CD8 T-cell responses dominated MCC-specific immune responses, and we identified two new HLA-peptide complexes derived from the LT antigen, located in a region encompassing 3 previously identified epitopes. Finally, we show that MAGE-A3 antigen, frequently expressed by MCC tumors, was recognized by CD8 TILs from a virus-negative MCC tumor and thus could be a target for immunotherapy in this setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahtab Samimi
- CRCINA, INSERM, Université d'Angers, Université de Nantes, Nantes, France; Laboratoire "Biologie des infections à polyomavirus", ISP1282 INRA Université de Tours, France; Dermatology Department, University of Tours, CHU Tours, Tours, France
| | - Houssem Benlalam
- CRCINA, INSERM, Université d'Angers, Université de Nantes, Nantes, France; LabEx IGO "Immunotherapy, Graft, Oncology", Nantes, France.
| | - Pascal Aumond
- CRCINA, INSERM, Université d'Angers, Université de Nantes, Nantes, France; LabEx IGO "Immunotherapy, Graft, Oncology", Nantes, France
| | - Pauline Gaboriaud
- Laboratoire "Biologie des infections à polyomavirus", ISP1282 INRA Université de Tours, France
| | - Delphine Fradin
- CRCINA, INSERM, Université d'Angers, Université de Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Thibault Kervarrec
- Laboratoire "Biologie des infections à polyomavirus", ISP1282 INRA Université de Tours, France; Pathology Department, University of Tours, CHU Tours, Tours, France
| | - Laetitia Florenceau
- CRCINA, INSERM, Université d'Angers, Université de Nantes, Nantes, France; LabEx IGO "Immunotherapy, Graft, Oncology", Nantes, France
| | - Virginie Vignard
- CRCINA, INSERM, Université d'Angers, Université de Nantes, Nantes, France; LabEx IGO "Immunotherapy, Graft, Oncology", Nantes, France; CHU Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Astrid Blom
- Dermatology Department, Hôpital Ambroise Paré, Paris, France
| | - Antoine Touzé
- Laboratoire "Biologie des infections à polyomavirus", ISP1282 INRA Université de Tours, France
| | - Nadine Gervois
- CRCINA, INSERM, Université d'Angers, Université de Nantes, Nantes, France; LabEx IGO "Immunotherapy, Graft, Oncology", Nantes, France
| | - Nathalie Labarriere
- CRCINA, INSERM, Université d'Angers, Université de Nantes, Nantes, France; LabEx IGO "Immunotherapy, Graft, Oncology", Nantes, France
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12
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Schrama D, Sarosi EM, Adam C, Ritter C, Kaemmerer U, Klopocki E, König EM, Utikal J, Becker JC, Houben R. Characterization of six Merkel cell polyomavirus-positive Merkel cell carcinoma cell lines: Integration pattern suggest that large T antigen truncating events occur before or during integration. Int J Cancer 2019; 145:1020-1032. [PMID: 30873613 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.32280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Revised: 02/06/2019] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), an aggressive neuroendocrine skin tumor, is a polyomavirus-induced human cancer. To study the causal relationship of MCC carcinogenesis with the integrated Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) in detail, well-characterized MCC cell lines are needed. Consequently, in the current study, we established and characterized six MCPyV-positive MCC cell lines. Microarray-based comparative genomic hybridization revealed a stable genome carrying only a limited number of chromosomal gains and deletions. All cell lines expressed MCC markers Keratin-20 and neuron-specific enolase as well as truncated MCPyV-encoded large T antigen (LT). For five cell lines, we were able to identify the MCPyV-integration sites in introns of different genes. The LT-truncating stop codon mutations and integration sites were affirmed in the respective clinical patient samples. Inverse PCR suggested that three of the cell lines contained MCPyV genomes as concatemers. This notion was confirmed for the two cell lines with known integration sites. Importantly, our observation of distinct stop codon mutations in cell lines with concatemeric MCPyV integration indicates that these LT-truncating mutations occur before integration. In summary, we provide the detailed characterization of six MCPyV-positive MCC cell lines, which are likely to serve as valuable tools in future MCC research.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Schrama
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Eva-Maria Sarosi
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Christian Adam
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Cathrin Ritter
- Department of Translational Skin Cancer Research (tscr), University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK/DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ulrike Kaemmerer
- Department of Gynecology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Eva Klopocki
- Institute for Human Genetics, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Eva-Maria König
- Institute for Human Genetics, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Jochen Utikal
- Skin Cancer Unit, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karl University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Jürgen C Becker
- Department of Translational Skin Cancer Research (tscr), University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK/DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Roland Houben
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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13
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Ollier J, Kervarrec T, Samimi M, Benlalam H, Aumont P, Vivien R, Touzé A, Labarrière N, Vié H, Clémenceau B. Merkel cell carcinoma and cellular cytotoxicity: sensitivity to cellular lysis and screening for potential target antigens suitable for antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2018; 67:1209-1219. [PMID: 29808366 PMCID: PMC11028380 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-018-2176-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2017] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The recent success of checkpoint inhibitors in the treatment of Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) confirms that MCC tumors can be immunogenic. However, no treatment directly targeting the tumor is available for use in combination with these checkpoint inhibitors to enhance their efficacity. This study was carried out to characterize MCC line sensitivity to cellular lysis and to identify cell surface antigens that could be used for direct targeting of this tumor. For five representative MCC lines, the absence or low expression of MICA, MICB, HLA-I, and ICAM-1 was associated with low level of recognition by NK cells and T lymphocytes. However, expression of HLA-I and ICAM-1 and sensitivity to cellular lysis could be restored or increased after exposure to INFγ. We tested 41 antibodies specific for 41 different antigens using a novel antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) screening system for target antigens. Anti-CD326 (EpCAM) was the only antibody capable of inducing ADCC on the five MCC lines tested. Because MCC tumors are often directly accessible, local pharmacologic manipulation to restore HLA class-I and ICAM-1 cell surface expression (and thus sensitivity to cell lysis) can potentially benefit immune therapeutic intervention. In line with this, our observation that ADCC against EpCAM can induce lysis of MCC lines and suggests that therapeutic targeting of this antigen deserves to be explored further.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jocelyn Ollier
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie et Immunologie Nantes-Angers (CRCINA), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM U1232), Centre national de la recherche scientifique (CNRS), Université d'Angers, Université de Nantes, 8 Quai Moncousu, 44007, Nantes Cedex, France
- Laboratoire d'Excellence Immunotherapy, Graft, Oncology (LabEx IGO), 44000, Nantes, France
| | - Thibault Kervarrec
- Department of Pathology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Tours, Université Francois Rabelais, avenue de la République, 37170, Chambray-les-tours, France
- Université François Rabelais, Unité Mixte de Recherche Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique Infectiologie Santé Publique (UMR INRA ISP) 1282, 31 avenue Monge, 37200, Tours, France
| | - Mahtab Samimi
- Department of Dermatology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Tours, Université François Rabelais, avenue de la République, 37170, Chambray-les-tours, France
- Université François Rabelais, Unité Mixte de Recherche Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique Infectiologie Santé Publique (UMR INRA ISP) 1282, 31 avenue Monge, 37200, Tours, France
| | - Houssem Benlalam
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie et Immunologie Nantes-Angers (CRCINA), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM U1232), Centre national de la recherche scientifique (CNRS), Université d'Angers, Université de Nantes, 8 Quai Moncousu, 44007, Nantes Cedex, France
| | - Pascal Aumont
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie et Immunologie Nantes-Angers (CRCINA), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM U1232), Centre national de la recherche scientifique (CNRS), Université d'Angers, Université de Nantes, 8 Quai Moncousu, 44007, Nantes Cedex, France
| | - Régine Vivien
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie et Immunologie Nantes-Angers (CRCINA), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM U1232), Centre national de la recherche scientifique (CNRS), Université d'Angers, Université de Nantes, 8 Quai Moncousu, 44007, Nantes Cedex, France
- Laboratoire d'Excellence Immunotherapy, Graft, Oncology (LabEx IGO), 44000, Nantes, France
| | - Antoine Touzé
- Université François Rabelais, Unité Mixte de Recherche Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique Infectiologie Santé Publique (UMR INRA ISP) 1282, 31 avenue Monge, 37200, Tours, France
| | - Nathalie Labarrière
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie et Immunologie Nantes-Angers (CRCINA), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM U1232), Centre national de la recherche scientifique (CNRS), Université d'Angers, Université de Nantes, 8 Quai Moncousu, 44007, Nantes Cedex, France
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Nantes, Hôtel Dieu, Unité de Thérapie Cellulaire et Génique, 44093, Nantes, France
- Laboratoire d'Excellence Immunotherapy, Graft, Oncology (LabEx IGO), 44000, Nantes, France
| | - Henri Vié
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie et Immunologie Nantes-Angers (CRCINA), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM U1232), Centre national de la recherche scientifique (CNRS), Université d'Angers, Université de Nantes, 8 Quai Moncousu, 44007, Nantes Cedex, France.
- Etablissement Français du Sang (EFS), Pays de la Loire, site de Nantes, 44000, Nantes, France.
- Laboratoire d'Excellence Immunotherapy, Graft, Oncology (LabEx IGO), 44000, Nantes, France.
| | - Béatrice Clémenceau
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie et Immunologie Nantes-Angers (CRCINA), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM U1232), Centre national de la recherche scientifique (CNRS), Université d'Angers, Université de Nantes, 8 Quai Moncousu, 44007, Nantes Cedex, France
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Nantes, Hôtel Dieu, Unité de Thérapie Cellulaire et Génique, 44093, Nantes, France
- Laboratoire d'Excellence Immunotherapy, Graft, Oncology (LabEx IGO), 44000, Nantes, France
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14
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Gavvovidis I, Leisegang M, Willimsky G, Miller N, Nghiem P, Blankenstein T. Targeting Merkel Cell Carcinoma by Engineered T Cells Specific to T-Antigens of Merkel Cell Polyomavirus. Clin Cancer Res 2018; 24:3644-3655. [PMID: 29669806 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-17-2661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2017] [Revised: 02/28/2018] [Accepted: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: The causative agent of most cases of Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) has been identified as the Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCV). MCV-encoded T antigens (Tag) are essential not only for virus-mediated tumorigenesis but also for maintaining MCC cell lines in vitro MCV Tags are thus an appealing target for viral oncoprotein-directed T-cell therapy for MCC. With this study, we aimed to isolate and characterize Tag-specific T-cell receptors (TCR) for potential use in gene therapy clinical trials.Experimental Design: T-cell responses against MCV Tag epitopes were investigated by immunizing transgenic mice that express a diverse human TCR repertoire restricted to HLA-A2. Human lymphocytes genetically engineered to express Tag-specific TCRs were tested for specific reactivity against MCC cell lines. The therapeutic potential of Tag-specific TCR gene therapy was tested in a syngeneic cancer model.Results: We identified naturally processed epitopes of MCV Tags and isolated Tag-specific TCRs. T cells expressing these TCRs were activated by HLA-A2-positive cells loaded with cognate peptide or cells that stably expressed MCV Tags. We showed cytotoxic potential of T cells engineered to express these TCRs in vitro and demonstrated regression of established tumors in a mouse model upon TCR gene therapy.Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate that MCC cells can be targeted by MCV Tag-specific TCRs. Although recent findings suggest that approximately half of MCC patients benefit from PD-1 pathway blockade, additional patients may benefit if their endogenous T-cell response can be augmented by infusion of transgenic MCV-specific T cells such as those described here. Clin Cancer Res; 24(15); 3644-55. ©2018 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Gavvovidis
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany.,Institute of Immunology, Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Matthias Leisegang
- Institute of Immunology, Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany.,Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gerald Willimsky
- Institute of Immunology, Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany.,German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Natalie Miller
- University of Washington, Dermatology/Medicine/Pathology, Seattle, Washington
| | - Paul Nghiem
- University of Washington, Dermatology/Medicine/Pathology, Seattle, Washington
| | - Thomas Blankenstein
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany. .,Institute of Immunology, Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany.,Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
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15
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Update on Merkel Cell Carcinoma: Epidemiology, Etiopathogenesis, Clinical Features, Diagnosis, and Staging. ACTAS DERMO-SIFILIOGRAFICAS 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.adengl.2016.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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16
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Westerveld DR, Hall DJ, Richards WT. Merkel Cell Carcinoma of the Hand: A Case Report and Review of the Literature. Hand (N Y) 2016; 11:NP24-NP29. [PMID: 28149222 PMCID: PMC5256641 DOI: 10.1177/1558944715616098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Background: Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a relatively rare and aggressive cutaneous neuroendocrine malignancy characterized by high incidence of local recurrence, distant metastases, regional nodal metastases, and high mortality. Clinically, MCC presents as a persistent asymptomatic red/pink shaped nodule, usually smaller than 2 cm with nontender intracutaneous swelling, with rapidly growing localized disease with lymph node metastases preceding distant metastases. Because of its rare nature and the lack of comprehensive understanding of the disease, management of MCC has been controversial. Methods: An 87-year-old retired Caucasian male with a history of tobacco use, chronic sun exposure, and multiple squamous and basal cell carcinomas presented with a 1.8 × 1.3 cm red, nontender nodule on the dorsum of the proximal phalanx of the left long finger first noticed 6 months prior to presentation. Biopsy was consistent with MCC after which he was treated with wide local excision, full-thickness skin grafting, and sentinel lymphadenectomy (1/4 nodes positive) followed by adjuvant radiation therapy. Results: He recovered appropriately and was clinically and radiographically disease free at 2.5-year follow-up. Conclusion: Although it remains rare, MCC has increased in incidence over the last several decades and has a predilection to occur over sun exposed areas. Highly aggressive, it has a high incidence of regional and distant metastasis as well as local recurrence. As a result, it is important that practitioners involved in the care of skin and hand lesions be aware of this condition and the need for a multidisciplinary treatment approach.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - David J. Hall
- University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Winston T. Richards
- University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA,Winston T. Richards, Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Surgery, University of Florida College of Medicine, 1600 SW Archer Road, Box 100286, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA.
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17
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Llombart B, Requena C, Cruz J. Update on Merkel Cell Carcinoma: Epidemiology, Etiopathogenesis, Clinical Features, Diagnosis, and Staging. ACTAS DERMO-SIFILIOGRAFICAS 2016; 108:108-119. [PMID: 27770997 DOI: 10.1016/j.ad.2016.07.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2016] [Revised: 07/01/2016] [Accepted: 07/29/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare, highly aggressive tumor, and local or regional disease recurrence is common, as is metastasis. MCC usually develops in sun-exposed skin in patients of advanced age. Its incidence has risen 4-fold in recent decades as the population has aged and immunohistochemical techniques have led to more diagnoses. The pathogenesis of MCC remains unclear but UV radiation, immunosuppression, and the presence of Merkel cell polyomavirus in the tumor genome seem to play key roles. This review seeks to update our understanding of the epidemiology, etiology, pathogenesis, and clinical features of MCC. We also review histologic and immunohistochemical features required for diagnosis. MCC staging is discussed, given its great importance in establishing a prognosis for these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Llombart
- Servicio de Dermatología, Instituto Valenciano de Oncología, Valencia, España.
| | - C Requena
- Servicio de Dermatología, Instituto Valenciano de Oncología, Valencia, España
| | - J Cruz
- Servicio de Anatomía Patológica, Instituto Valenciano de Oncología, Valencia, España
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18
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Xie H, Liu T, Wang N, Björnhagen V, Höög A, Larsson C, Lui WO, Xu D. TERT promoter mutations and gene amplification: promoting TERT expression in Merkel cell carcinoma. Oncotarget 2015; 5:10048-57. [PMID: 25301727 PMCID: PMC4259404 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.2491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Telomerase activation through the induction of its catalytic component TERT is essential in carcinogenesis. The regulatory mechanism and clinical significance underlying cancer-specific TERT expression have been extensively investigated in various human malignancies, but little is known about these in Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), an aggressive neuroendocrine skin tumor. Here we addressed these issues by determining TERT promoter mutations, gene amplification, mRNA expression and association with clinical variables in MCC. TERT mRNA was expressed in 6/6 MCC cell lines and 41 of 43 tumors derived from 35 MCC patients. Telomerase activity was detectable in all 6 cell lines and 11 tumors analyzed. TERT promoter mutations were identified in 1/6 cell lines and 4/35 (11.4%) MCC cases. The mutation exhibited UV signature and occurred in sun-exposed areas. Increased TERT gene copy numbers were observed in 1/6 cell lines and 11/14 (79%) tumors, and highly correlated with its mRNA expression (r = 0.7419, P = 0.0024). Shorter overall survival was significantly associated with higher TERT mRNA levels in MCC patients (P = 0.032). Collectively, TERT expression and telomerase activity is widespread in MCC, and may be attributable to TERT promoter mutations and gene amplification. Higher TERT expression predicts poor patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Xie
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Cancer Center Karolinska. Contributed equally to this work
| | - Tiantian Liu
- Department of Pathology, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, PR China. Contributed equally to this work
| | - Na Wang
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Cancer Center Karolinska
| | - Viveca Björnhagen
- Department of Reconstructive Plastic Surgery, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anders Höög
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Cancer Center Karolinska
| | | | - Weng-Onn Lui
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Cancer Center Karolinska
| | - Dawei Xu
- Department of Medicine-Solna, Division of Hematology and Center for Molecular Medicine. Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
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19
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Assessment of cancer cell line representativeness using microarrays for Merkel cell carcinoma. J Invest Dermatol 2014; 135:1138-1146. [PMID: 25521454 PMCID: PMC4366303 DOI: 10.1038/jid.2014.518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2014] [Revised: 11/20/2014] [Accepted: 11/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
When using cell lines to study cancer, phenotypic similarity to the original tumor is paramount. Yet, little has been done to characterize how closely Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) cell lines model native tumors. To determine their similarity to MCC tumor samples, we characterized MCC cell lines via gene expression microarrays. Using whole transcriptome gene expression signatures and a computational bioinformatic approach, we identified significant differences between variant cell lines (UISO, MCC13, and MCC26) and fresh frozen MCC tumors. Conversely, the classic WaGa and Mkl-1 cell lines more closely represented the global transcriptome of MCC tumors. When compared to publicly available cancer lines, WaGa and Mkl-1 cells were similar to other neuroendocrine tumors, but the variant cell lines were not. WaGa and Mkl-1 cells grown as xenografts in mice had histological and immunophenotypical features consistent with MCC, while UISO xenograft tumors were atypical for MCC. Spectral karyotyping and short tandem repeat analysis of the UISO cells matched the original cell line’s description, ruling out contamination. Our results validate the use of transcriptome analysis to assess the cancer cell line representativeness and indicate that UISO, MCC13, and MCC26 cell lines are not representative of MCC tumors, whereas WaGa and Mkl-1 more closely model MCC.
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20
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Erstad DJ, Cusack JC. Mutational analysis of merkel cell carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2014; 6:2116-36. [PMID: 25329450 PMCID: PMC4276959 DOI: 10.3390/cancers6042116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2014] [Revised: 09/15/2014] [Accepted: 09/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an aggressive cutaneous neuroendocrine malignancy that is associated with a poor prognosis. The pathogenesis of MCC is not well understood, and despite a recent plethora of mutational analyses, we have yet to find a set of signature mutations implicated in the majority of cases. Mutations, including TP53, Retinoblastoma and PIK3CA, have been documented in subsets of patients. Other mechanisms are also likely at play, including infection with the Merkel cell polyomavirus in a subset of patients, dysregulated immune surveillance, epigenetic alterations, aberrant protein expression, posttranslational modifications and microRNAs. In this review, we summarize what is known about MCC genetic mutations and chromosomal abnormalities, and their clinical significance. We also examine aberrant protein function and microRNA expression, and discuss the therapeutic and prognostic implications of these findings. Multiple clinical trials designed to selectively target overexpressed oncogenes in MCC are currently underway, though most are still in early phases. As we accumulate more molecular data on MCC, we will be better able to understand its pathogenic mechanisms, develop libraries of targeted therapies, and define molecular prognostic signatures to enhance our clinicopathologic knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derek J Erstad
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
| | - James C Cusack
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
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21
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Houben R, Angermeyer S, Haferkamp S, Aue A, Goebeler M, Schrama D, Hesbacher S. Characterization of functional domains in the Merkel cell polyoma virus Large T antigen. Int J Cancer 2014; 136:E290-300. [PMID: 25208506 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.29200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2014] [Revised: 07/30/2014] [Accepted: 08/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV)--positive Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) tumor cell growth is dependent on the expression of a viral Large T antigen (LT) with an intact retinoblastoma protein (RB)-binding site. This RB-binding domain in MCPyV-LT is--in contrast to other polyomavirus LTs (e.g., SV40)--embedded between two large MCPyV unique regions (MUR1 and MUR2). To identify elements of the MCPyV-LT necessary for tumor cell growth, we analyzed the rescue activity of LT variants following knockdown of the endogenous LT in MCC cells. These experiments demonstrate that nuclear localization is essential for LT function, but that a motif previously described to be a nuclear localization sequence is neither required for nuclear accumulation of truncated MCPyV-LT nor for promotion of MCC cell proliferation. Furthermore, large parts of the MURs distal to the RB binding domain as well as ALTO--a second protein encoded by an alternative reading frame in the MCPyV-LT mRNA--are completely dispensable for MCPyV-driven tumor cell proliferation. Notably, even MCPyV-LTs in which the entire MURs have been removed are still able to promote MCC cellular growth although rescue activity is reduced which may be due to MUR1 being required for stable LT expression in MCC cells. Finally, we provide evidence implying that--while binding to Vam6p is not essential--HSC-70 interaction is significantly involved in mediating MCPyV-LT function in MCC cells including growth promotion and induction of E2F target genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roland Houben
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital, Würzburg, Germany
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22
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Sahi H, Savola S, Sihto H, Koljonen V, Bohling T, Knuutila S. RB1 gene in Merkel cell carcinoma: hypermethylation in all tumors and concurrent heterozygous deletions in the polyomavirus-negative subgroup. APMIS 2014; 122:1157-66. [PMID: 24735260 DOI: 10.1111/apm.12274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2013] [Accepted: 02/25/2014] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Sequestration of the tumor suppressor retinoblastoma protein (RB) by the Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCV) is a crucial step in the pathogenesis of Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC). RB expression is frequently lost, particularly in MCV-negative MCC tumors, through yet unknown mechanisms. We compared the genomic copy number changes of 13 MCV-positive and 13 -negative MCC tumors by array comparative genomic hybridization. The analysis revealed increased genomic instability, amplification of 1p34.3-1p34.2, and losses of 11p in the absence of MCV infection. Deletions of the RB1 locus were also detected at high rates in MCV-negative tumors. None of the tumors with heterozygous RB1 losses expressed RB in immunohistochemistry. RB1 promoter hypermethylation was studied with a methylation-specific multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification technique. The RB1 promoter was methylated in all tumor specimens at CpG islands located close to the ATG start codon, albeit at low levels. The pattern of hypermethylation was similar in all MCC samples, despite RB expression, survival or MCV status. In conclusion, the frequent heterozygous losses of the RB1 locus could partly explain the decreased RB expression in MCV-negative MCC tumors, although the effects of RB1 mutations, coinciding promoter hypermethylation and, for example, miRNA regulation, cannot be excluded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helka Sahi
- Department of Pathology, Helsinki University and HUSLAB, Helsinki, Finland; Department of Plastic Surgery, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
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23
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Adam C, Baeurle A, Brodsky JL, Wipf P, Schrama D, Becker JC, Houben R. The HSP70 modulator MAL3-101 inhibits Merkel cell carcinoma. PLoS One 2014; 9:e92041. [PMID: 24694787 PMCID: PMC3973671 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0092041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2013] [Accepted: 02/19/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and highly aggressive neuroendocrine skin cancer for which no effective treatment is available. MCC represents a human cancer with the best experimental evidence for a causal role of a polyoma virus. Large T antigens (LTA) encoded by polyoma viruses are oncoproteins, which are thought to require support of cellular heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) to exert their transforming activity. Here we evaluated the capability of MAL3-101, a synthetic HSP70 inhibitor, to limit proliferation and survival of various MCC cell lines. Remarkably, MAL3-101 treatment resulted in considerable apoptosis in 5 out of 7 MCC cell lines. While this effect was not associated with the viral status of the MCC cells, quantitative mRNA expression analysis of the known HSP70 isoforms revealed a significant correlation between MAL3-101 sensitivity and HSC70 expression, the most prominent isoform in all cell lines. Moreover, MAL3-101 also exhibited in vivo antitumor activity in an MCC xenograft model suggesting that this substance or related compounds are potential therapeutics for the treatment of MCC in the future.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antigens, Viral, Tumor/genetics
- Antigens, Viral, Tumor/metabolism
- Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology
- Carcinoma, Merkel Cell/drug therapy
- Carcinoma, Merkel Cell/genetics
- Carcinoma, Merkel Cell/metabolism
- Carcinoma, Merkel Cell/virology
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Cell Transformation, Viral/drug effects
- Cell Transformation, Viral/genetics
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic/drug effects
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic/genetics
- HSP70 Heat-Shock Proteins/antagonists & inhibitors
- HSP70 Heat-Shock Proteins/biosynthesis
- HSP70 Heat-Shock Proteins/genetics
- Humans
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred NOD
- Neoplasm Proteins/antagonists & inhibitors
- Neoplasm Proteins/genetics
- Neoplasm Proteins/metabolism
- Polyomavirus/genetics
- Polyomavirus/metabolism
- Polyomavirus Infections/drug therapy
- Polyomavirus Infections/genetics
- Polyomavirus Infections/metabolism
- Tumor Virus Infections/drug therapy
- Tumor Virus Infections/genetics
- Tumor Virus Infections/metabolism
- Tumor Virus Infections/pathology
- Xenograft Model Antitumor Assays
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Adam
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- * E-mail:
| | - Anne Baeurle
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Jeffrey L. Brodsky
- Departments of Chemistry and Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Peter Wipf
- Departments of Chemistry and Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - David Schrama
- Division of General Dermatology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | | | - Roland Houben
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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24
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Merkel cell carcinoma dependence on bcl-2 family members for survival. J Invest Dermatol 2014; 134:2241-2250. [PMID: 24614157 PMCID: PMC4181590 DOI: 10.1038/jid.2014.138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2013] [Revised: 01/28/2014] [Accepted: 02/10/2014] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), a rare but aggressive cutaneous neoplasm with high metastatic potential, has a poor prognosis at late stages of disease with no proven chemotherapeutic regimens. Using an enriched culture medium, we established and characterized 11 MCC cell lines for Bcl-2 family profiling and functional studies. Immunoblot analysis revealed collectively high protein levels of pro-survival Bcl-2 members in cell lines and a panel of MCC tumors. Down-regulation of individual Bcl-2 proteins by RNAi promoted death in a subset of MCC cell lines, whereas simultaneous inhibition of multiple family members using the small molecule antagonist ABT-263 led to dramatic induction of cell death in 10 of 11 lines. ABT-263 induced Bax-dependent apoptosis with rapid cleavage of caspase-3 and PARP, regardless of Bcl-2 family profile or presence of Merkel cell polyomavirus. Furthermore, ABT-263 treatment led to rapid and sustained growth suppression of MCC xenografts from a representative cell line, accompanied by a striking increase in apoptosis. Our results establish that concurrent inhibition of multiple pro-survival Bcl-2 proteins leads to effective induction of apoptosis, and strongly support the concept that targeting MCC addiction to these molecules may be useful therapeutically by reversing an intrinsic resistance to cell death.
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25
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Dresang LR, Guastafierro A, Arora R, Normolle D, Chang Y, Moore PS. Response of Merkel cell polyomavirus-positive merkel cell carcinoma xenografts to a survivin inhibitor. PLoS One 2013; 8:e80543. [PMID: 24260412 PMCID: PMC3832378 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0080543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2013] [Accepted: 10/14/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a neuroendocrine skin cancer associated with high mortality. Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCV), discovered in 2008, is associated with ~80% of MCC. The MCV large tumor (LT) oncoprotein upregulates the cellular oncoprotein survivin through its conserved retinoblastoma protein-binding motif. We confirm here that YM155, a survivin suppressor, is cytotoxic to MCV-positive MCC cells in vitro at nanomolar levels. Mouse survival was significantly improved for NOD-Scid-Gamma mice treated with YM155 in a dose and duration dependent manner for 3 of 4 MCV-positive MCC xenografts. One MCV-positive MCC xenograft (MS-1) failed to significantly respond to YM155, which corresponds with in vitro dose-response activity. Combination treatment of YM155 with other chemotherapeutics resulted in additive but not synergistic cell killing of MCC cell lines in vitro. These results suggest that survivin targeting is a promising therapeutic approach for most but not all MCV-positive MCCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay R. Dresang
- Cancer Virology Program, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Anna Guastafierro
- Cancer Virology Program, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Reety Arora
- Cancer Virology Program, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, National Centre for Biological Sciences, GKVK Campus, Bangalore, India
| | - Daniel Normolle
- Biostatistics Facility, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Yuan Chang
- Cancer Virology Program, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Patrick S. Moore
- Cancer Virology Program, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
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26
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Mechanisms of p53 restriction in Merkel cell carcinoma cells are independent of the Merkel cell polyoma virus T antigens. J Invest Dermatol 2013; 133:2453-2460. [PMID: 23563200 DOI: 10.1038/jid.2013.169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2012] [Revised: 03/20/2013] [Accepted: 03/21/2013] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and very aggressive skin cancer with viral etiology. The tumor-associated Merkel cell polyoma virus (MCV) belongs to a group of viruses encoding T antigens (TAs) that can induce tumorigenesis by interfering with cellular tumor-suppressor proteins like p53. To explore possible modes of p53 inactivation in MCC p53 sequencing, expression analysis and reporter gene assays for functional analyses were performed in a set of MCC lines. In one MCV-negative and one MCV-positive cell line, p53 inactivating mutations were found. In the majority of MCC lines, however, wild-type p53 is expressed and displays some transcriptional activity, which is yet not sufficient to effectively restrict cellular survival or growth in these cell cultures. Interestingly, the MCV TAs are not responsible for this critical lack in p53 activity, as TA knockdown in MCV-positive MCC cells does not induce p53 activity. In contrast, inhibition of the ubiquitin ligase HDM-2 (human double minute 2) by Nutlin-3a leads to p53 activation and p53-dependent apoptosis or cell cycle arrest in five out of seven p53 wild-type MCC lines, highlighting p53 as a potential target for future therapies of this aggressive tumor.
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27
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Angermeyer S, Hesbacher S, Becker JC, Schrama D, Houben R. Merkel cell polyomavirus-positive Merkel cell carcinoma cells do not require expression of the viral small T antigen. J Invest Dermatol 2013; 133:2059-64. [PMID: 23439392 DOI: 10.1038/jid.2013.82] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2012] [Revised: 01/22/2013] [Accepted: 01/24/2013] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Increasing evidence suggests that Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is caused by the Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCV). The viral sequence encodes for two potential oncoproteins, i.e., the small T antigen (sT) and the large T antigen (LT). Indeed, sT has recently been shown to bear transforming activity. Here, we confirm this observation by demonstrating focus formation upon expression of MCV sT in NIH3T3 fibroblasts. On the other hand, however, we provide evidence that established MCC cells do not require sT for growth and survival. Silencing of sT protein expression by two different sT-specific short hairpin RNAs (shRNAs) leads to variable degrees of growth retardation in MCV-positive MCC cell lines. However, these effects are not sT specific, as proliferation of MCV-negative cell lines is similarly affected by these sT shRNAs. Furthermore, ectopic expression of shRNA-insensitive sT does not revert the growth inhibition implicated by sT silencing. Finally, the unambiguous and specific growth inhibition induced by means of an shRNA targeting both T antigens, can be completely rescued by ectopic expression of LT alone, thus demonstrating a dispensable role of sT. Altogether, our results indicate that MCV LT is more relevant in maintaining the proliferation and survival of established MCC cell lines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Angermeyer
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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28
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Shao Q, Byrum SD, Moreland LE, Mackintosh SG, Kannan A, Lin Z, Morgan M, Stack BC, Cornelius LA, Tackett AJ, Gao L. A Proteomic Study of Human Merkel Cell Carcinoma. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 6:275-282. [PMID: 25284964 PMCID: PMC4181674 DOI: 10.4172/jpb.1000291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC) is an aggressive neuroendocrine cancer of the skin. The incidence has been quadrupled with a 5-year mortality rate of 46%, presently there is no cure for metastatic disease. Despite the contribution of Merkel cell polyomavirus, the molecular events of MCC carcinogenesis are poorly defined. To better understand MCC carcinogensis, we have performed the first quantitative proteomic comparison of formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) MCC tissues using another neuroendocrine tumor (carcinoid tumor of the lung) as controls. Bioinformatic analysis of the proteomic data has revealed that MCCs carry distinct protein expression patterns. Further analysis of significantly over-expressed proteins suggested the involvement of MAPK, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, wnt, and apoptosis signaling pathways. Our previous study and that from others have shown mTOR activation in MCCs. Therefore, we have focused on two downstream molecules of the mTOR pathway, lactate dehydrogenase B (LDHB) and heterogeneous ribonucleoprotein F (hnRNPF). We confirm over-expression of LDHB and hnRNPF in two primary human MCC cell lines, 16 fresh tumors, and in the majority of 80 tissue microarray samples. Moreover, mTOR inhibition suppresses LDHB and hnRNPF expression in MCC cells. The results of the current study provide insight into MCC carcinogenesis and provide rationale for mTOR inhibition in pre-clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Shao
- Department of Dermatology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W. Markham St., Little Rock, AR 72205, USA ; Critical Care Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Stephanie D Byrum
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W. Markham St., Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Linley E Moreland
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W. Markham St., Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Samuel G Mackintosh
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W. Markham St., Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Aarthi Kannan
- Department of Dermatology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W. Markham St., Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Zhenyu Lin
- Department of Dermatology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W. Markham St., Little Rock, AR 72205, USA ; Cancer Center Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Michael Morgan
- University of South Florida, College of Medicine, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Brendan C Stack
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W. Markham St., Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Lynn A Cornelius
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Dermatology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, 63110, USA
| | - Alan J Tackett
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W. Markham St., Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Ling Gao
- Department of Dermatology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W. Markham St., Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
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29
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Bechert CJ, Schnadig V, Nawgiri R. The Merkel cell carcinoma challenge: a review from the fine needle aspiration service. Cancer Cytopathol 2012; 121:179-88. [PMID: 23225406 DOI: 10.1002/cncy.21237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2012] [Revised: 06/09/2012] [Accepted: 06/29/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a highly aggressive neuroendocrine carcinoma of the skin that occurs primarily in elderly or immunocompromised patients. For this report, the authors reviewed the diagnostic challenges associated with MCC encountered on their fine-needle aspiration (FNA) service and also conducted an in-depth review of the literature on MCC. A computer search for patients who were diagnosed with MCC by FNA at the authors' institution from 2006 to 2010 was conducted, and 5 patients were selected for cytologic and immunochemical analyses based on their varied and diagnostically challenging clinical presentations. The 5 selected patients had clinical findings commonly associated with MCC, including advanced age (4 of the 5 patients were ages 75-85 years) and a history of previous malignancies (3 of the 5 patients had a history of previous malignancy), and 1 patient was diagnosed with a concomitant low-grade lymphoma. The patients and their disease illustrated the protean clinical presentation of MCC and the clinical and cytologic challenges associated with this neoplasm. The current findings indicate the need for cytopathologists to be aware of the deceptive presentation of this neoplasm and its cytologic and immunochemical features to correctly diagnose this insidious neoplasm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles J Bechert
- Division of Cytopathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas 77555-0548, USA
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30
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Characterization of an early passage Merkel cell polyomavirus-positive Merkel cell carcinoma cell line, MS-1, and its growth in NOD scid gamma mice. J Virol Methods 2012; 187:6-14. [PMID: 23085629 DOI: 10.1016/j.jviromet.2012.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2012] [Revised: 09/13/2012] [Accepted: 10/04/2012] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an aggressive skin cancer with a high mortality rate. The majority of MCC (70-80%) harbor clonally integrated Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCV) in the tumor genome and express viral T antigen oncoproteins. The characterization of an early passage MCV-positive MCC cell line MS-1 is described, and its cellular, immunohistochemical, and virological features to MCV-negative (UISO, MCC13, and MCC26) and MCV-positive cell lines (MKL-1 and MKL-2) were compared. The MS-1 cellular genome harbors integrated MCV, which preserves an identical viral sequence from its parental tumor. Neither VP2 gene transcripts nor VP1 protein are detectable in MS-1 or other MCV-positive MCC cell lines tested. Mapping of viral and cellular integration sites in MS-1 and MCC tumor samples demonstrates no consistent viral or cellular gene integration locus. All MCV-positive cell lines show cytokeratin 20 positivity and grow in suspension. When injected subcutaneously into NOD scid gamma (NSG) mice, MS-1 forms a discrete macroscopic tumor. Immunophenotypic analysis of the MS-1 cell line and xenografts in mice show identical profiles to the parental tumor biopsy. Hence, MS-1 is an early passage cell line that provides a useful in vitro model to characterize MCV-positive MCC.
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31
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Demetriou SK, Ona-Vu K, Sullivan EM, Dong TK, Hsu SW, Oh DH. Defective DNA repair and cell cycle arrest in cells expressing Merkel cell polyomavirus T antigen. Int J Cancer 2012; 131:1818-27. [PMID: 22261839 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.27440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2011] [Accepted: 01/03/2012] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The pathways by which Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCV) infection contributes to the formation of Merkel cell carcinomas are important for understanding the pathogenesis of these cancers. We hypothesized that MCV T antigen suppresses normal responses to ultraviolet radiation (UVR)-induced DNA damage. An MCV-infected cell line (MKL-1) exhibited UVR hypersensitivity, impaired repair of DNA lesions and cell cycle arrest after UVR, as well as reduced levels of the DNA damage recognition protein, XPC. When ectopically expressed in uninfected UISO cells, mutant but not wild-type T antigen resulted in loss of repair of UVR-induced cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers and reductions in XPC, p53 and p21 levels, whereas both wild-type and mutant T antigen inhibited cell cycle arrest after UVR. Similarly, only mutant T antigen in normal fibroblasts inhibited DNA repair and XPC expression, while both mutant and wild-type T antigens produced cell cycle dysregulation. Wild-type T antigen expression produced large T, 57 kT and small T antigens while mutant T antigen was only detectable as a truncated large T antigen protein. Expression of wild-type large T antigen but not small T antigen inhibited the G1 checkpoint in UISO cells, but neither wild-type large T nor small T antigens affected DNA repair, suggesting that large T antigen generates cell cycle defects, and when mutated may also impair DNA repair. These results indicate that T antigen expression by MCV can inhibit key responses to UVR-induced DNA damage and suggest that progressive MCV-mediated abrogation of genomic stability may be involved in Merkel cell carcinogenesis.
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32
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Lyhne D, Lock-Andersen J, Dahlstrøm K, Drzewiecki KT, Balslev E, Muhic A, Krarup-Hansen A. Rising incidence of Merkel cell carcinoma. J Plast Surg Hand Surg 2012; 45:274-80. [PMID: 22250719 DOI: 10.3109/2000656x.2011.613233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare, aggressive, skin cancer of obscure histogenesis, the incidence of which is rising. There is no consensus on the optimal treatment. Our aim was to evaluate the staging, investigation, treatment, and follow-up of MCC in eastern Denmark, and to investigate the incidence. We suggest guidelines for treatment. First we reviewed the medical records of 51 patients diagnosed with MCC from 1995 until 2006 in eastern Denmark. The nation-wide incidence of MCC was extracted from the Danish Cancer Registry for the calculations for the period 1986-2003. We reviwed published papers about MCC based on a MEDLINE search. Fourteen of the 51 patients developed recurrence, and 37 (73%) died during the study period. Mean follow-up was 13 months (range 1-122). A total of 153 patients were identified in the Danish Cancer Registry, and showed that incidence rates had increased 5.4 fold over the 18 year period from 1986 until 2003. Rates were highest in people over the age of 65. Recommended treatment with curative intent includes excision of the primary tumour with wide margins, excision of the sentinel node, computed tomogram (CT) or positron emission tomography (PET) of the thorax and abdomen, and adjuvant radiotherapy to the surgical bed. In the case of advanced disease, systemic palliative chemotherapy remains a possibility. There is a need for prospective multicentre evaluation of staging investigations and treatment of MCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorte Lyhne
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen.
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33
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Akgül B, Zigrino P, Hufbauer M, Liu X, Moore PS, Mauch C, Pfister H. Lack of integrin β5 in Merkel cell carcinomas and derived cell lines is frequently associated with Merkel cell polyomavirus positivity. J Dermatol Sci 2012; 67:66-8. [PMID: 22503669 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdermsci.2012.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2012] [Revised: 03/13/2012] [Accepted: 03/16/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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34
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Willmes C, Adam C, Alb M, Völkert L, Houben R, Becker JC, Schrama D. Type I and II IFNs inhibit Merkel cell carcinoma via modulation of the Merkel cell polyomavirus T antigens. Cancer Res 2012; 72:2120-8. [PMID: 22389452 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-11-2651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and highly aggressive skin cancer associated with the Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCV). As MCC cell lines show oncogene addiction to the MCV T antigens, pharmacologic interference of the large T antigen (LTA) may represent an effective therapeutic approach for this deadly cancer. In this study, we investigated the effects of IFNs on MCC cell lines, especially on MCV-positive (MCV(+)) lines. Type I IFNs (i.e., Multiferon, a mix of different IFN-α subtypes, and IFN-β) strongly inhibited the cellular viability. Cell-cycle analysis showed increased sub-G fractions for these cells upon IFN treatment indicating apoptotic cell death; these effects were less pronounced for IFN-γ. Notably, this inhibitory effect of type I IFNs on MCV(+) MCC cell lines was associated with a reduced expression of the MCV LTA as well as an increased expression of promyelocytic leukemia (PML) protein, which is known to interfere with the function of the LTA. In addition, the intratumoral application of Multiferon resulted in a regression of MCV(+) but not MCV(-) MCCs in vivo. Together, our findings show that type I IFNs have a strong antitumor effect, which is at least in part explained by modulation of the virally encoded LTA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph Willmes
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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35
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Nardi V, Song Y, Santamaria-Barria JA, Cosper AK, Lam Q, Faber AC, Boland GM, Yeap BY, Bergethon K, Scialabba VL, Tsao H, Settleman J, Ryan DP, Borger DR, Bhan AK, Hoang MP, Iafrate AJ, Cusack JC, Engelman JA, Dias-Santagata D. Activation of PI3K signaling in Merkel cell carcinoma. Clin Cancer Res 2012; 18:1227-36. [PMID: 22261808 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-11-2308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an aggressive cutaneous neuroendocrine tumor, often metastatic at presentation, for which current chemotherapeutic regimens are largely ineffective. As its pathogenesis is still unknown, we hypothesized that deregulation of signaling pathways commonly activated in cancer may contribute to MCC tumorigenesis and may provide insights into targeted therapy approaches for this malignancy. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN We retrospectively profiled 60 primary MCC samples using a SNaPshot-based tumor genotyping assay to screen for common mutations in 13 cancer genes. RESULTS We identified mutations in 9 (15%) MCC primary tumors, including mutations in TP53 (3 of 60) and activating mutations in the PIK3CA gene (6 of 60). Sanger sequencing of the primary MCC tumors detected one additional PIK3CA mutation (R19K) that had not been previously described in cancer. Merkel cell polyoma virus (MCPyV) was detected in 38 (66%) MCC cases and patients with MCPyV-positive cancers showed a trend toward better survival. With one exception, the presence of MCPyV and activating mutations in PIK3CA appeared mutually exclusive. We observed that signaling through the PI3K/pAKT pathway was active in one MCPyV-positive and in all MCPyV-negative MCC cell lines, as evidenced by AKT phosphorylation. Importantly, the presence of a PIK3CA-activating mutation was associated with sensitivity to treatment with ZST474, a specific phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor, and to NVP-BEZ235, a dual PI3K/mTOR inhibitor, targeted agents under active clinical development. CONCLUSIONS PI3K pathway activation may drive tumorigenesis in a subset of MCC and screening these tumors for PIK3CA mutations could help identify patients who may respond to treatment with PI3K pathway inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Nardi
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02214, USA
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Nagahama J, Daa T, Yada N, Kashima K, Fujiwara S, Saikawa T, Yokoyama S. Tyrosine kinase receptor RON and its ligand MSP in Merkel cell carcinoma. Pathol Res Pract 2011; 207:463-7. [PMID: 21723047 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2011.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2011] [Revised: 05/06/2011] [Accepted: 05/07/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The RON gene, encoding the tyrosine-kinase receptor for macrophage-stimulating protein (MSP), is involved in a range of neoplastic processes. However, no aberration in RON or MSP has been identified in Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC). We investigated the RON signaling pathway in MCC. Fourteen cases of MCC were tested for the expression of RON and its ligand, MSP, using reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) and immunohistochemistry. The mutation of RON was also examined. RT-PCR identified transcription of both RON and MSP in all nine cases that were available for the examination. Immunohistochemistry showed the expression of RON (9/14 cases) and MSP (9/14 cases). Six cases out of 14 were positive for both RON and MSP. Normal Merkel cells were negative for RON and MSP expression. Missense mutation in the tyrosine kinase region of RON was detected in one of the 14 cases, and the case showed expression of RON. Transcription of RON and MSP was observed in MCC, and a considerable number of MCC cases expressed both RON and MSP, while Merkel cells do not express these molecules. The results suggest that RON signaling seems to play at least some role in the pathogenesis of MCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junji Nagahama
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology, Oita University, Faculty of Medicine, 1-1 Idaigaoka, Hasama-machi, Yufu-shi, Oita 879-5593, Japan
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Pellitteri PK, Takes RP, Lewis JS, Devaney KO, Harlor EJ, Strojan P, Rodrigo JP, Suárez C, Rinaldo A, Medina JE, Woolgar JA, Ferlito A. Merkel cell carcinoma of the head and neck. Head Neck 2011; 34:1346-54. [DOI: 10.1002/hed.21787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/21/2011] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
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Houben R, Adam C, Baeurle A, Hesbacher S, Grimm J, Angermeyer S, Henzel K, Hauser S, Elling R, Bröcker EB, Gaubatz S, Becker JC, Schrama D. An intact retinoblastoma protein-binding site in Merkel cell polyomavirus large T antigen is required for promoting growth of Merkel cell carcinoma cells. Int J Cancer 2011; 130:847-56. [PMID: 21413015 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.26076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2010] [Accepted: 02/04/2011] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a highly aggressive skin cancer that frequently harbours Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCV) DNA integrated in the genome of the tumor cells. In our study, we elaborate our recent finding that MCV-positive MCC cell lines require the expression of the viral T antigens (TA). Indeed, in a xeno-transplantation model, we prove that TA expression is essential also in an in vivo situation, as knock down of TA leads to tumor regression. Moreover, rescuing TA short hairpin RNA (shRNA)-treated MCV-positive MCC cells by ectopic expression of shRNA-insensitive TAs clearly demonstrates that the observed effect is caused by TA knockdown. Notably, introduction of a mutation in the LTA protein interfering with LTA binding to the retinoblastoma protein (RB) ablated this rescue. The importance of this interaction was further confirmed as LTA-specific knockdown leads to explicit cell growth inhibition. In summary, the presented data demonstrate that established MCV-positive MCC tumors critically depend on TA expression, in particular the LTA and RB interaction, for sustained tumor growth. Consequently, interference with LTA/RB interaction appears as promising strategy to treat MCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roland Houben
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.
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Merkel cell polyomavirus-infected Merkel cell carcinoma cells require expression of viral T antigens. J Virol 2010; 84:7064-72. [PMID: 20444890 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.02400-09] [Citation(s) in RCA: 331] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is the most aggressive skin cancer. Recently, it was demonstrated that human Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCV) is clonally integrated in approximately 80% of MCC tumors. However, direct evidence for whether oncogenic viral proteins are needed for the maintenance of MCC cells is still missing. To address this question, we knocked down MCV T-antigen (TA) expression in MCV-positive MCC cell lines using three different short hairpin RNA (shRNA)-expressing vectors targeting exon 1 of the TAs. The MCC cell lines used include three newly generated MCV-infected cell lines and one MCV-negative cell line from MCC tumors. Notably, all MCV-positive MCC cell lines underwent growth arrest and/or cell death upon TA knockdown, whereas the proliferation of MCV-negative cell lines remained unaffected. Despite an increase in the number of annexin V-positive, 7-amino-actinomycin D (7-AAD)-negative cells upon TA knockdown, activation of caspases or changes in the expression and phosphorylation of Bcl-2 family members were not consistently detected after TA suppression. Our study provides the first direct experimental evidence that TA expression is necessary for the maintenance of MCV-positive MCC and that MCV is the infectious cause of MCV-positive MCC.
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Sastre-Garau X, Peter M, Avril MF, Laude H, Couturier J, Rozenberg F, Almeida A, Boitier F, Carlotti A, Couturaud B, Dupin N. Merkel cell carcinoma of the skin: pathological and molecular evidence for a causative role of MCV in oncogenesis. J Pathol 2009; 218:48-56. [PMID: 19291712 DOI: 10.1002/path.2532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 213] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), a skin tumour with neuroendocrine features, was recently found to be associated with a new type of human polyomavirus, called Merkel cell virus (MCV). We investigated the specificity of this association as well as a causal role of MCV in oncogenesis. DNA and RNA from ten cases of MCC were analysed using PCR and RT-PCR. DNA from 1241 specimens of a wide range of human tumours was also analysed. The DIPS technique was used to identify the integration locus of viral DNA sequences. Array CGH was performed to analyse structural alterations of the cell genome. MCV DNA sequences were found in all ten cases of MCC and in none of the 1241 specimens of other tumour types. Clonal integration of MCV into the host genome was seen in all MCC cases and was checked by FISH in one case. A recurrent pattern of conserved viral sequences which encompassed the replication origin, the small tumour (ST), and the 5' part of the large tumour (LT) antigen DNA sequences was observed. Both ST and LT viral sequences were found to be significantly expressed in all MCCs. Neither recurrent site of integration nor alteration of cellular genes located near the viral sequences was observed. The tight association of MCV with MCC, the clonal pattern of MCV integration, and the expression of the viral oncoproteins strongly support a causative role for MCV in the tumour process. This information will help the development of novel approaches for the assessment and therapy of MCC and biologically related tumours.
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Paulson KG, Lemos BD, Feng B, Jaimes N, Peñas PF, Bi X, Maher E, Cohen L, Leonard JH, Granter SR, Chin L, Nghiem P. Array-CGH reveals recurrent genomic changes in Merkel cell carcinoma including amplification of L-Myc. J Invest Dermatol 2008; 129:1547-55. [PMID: 19020549 DOI: 10.1038/jid.2008.365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an aggressive neuroendocrine skin cancer with poorly characterized genetics. We performed high resolution comparative genomic hybridization on 25 MCC specimens using a high-density oligonucleotide microarray. Tumors frequently carried extra copies of chromosomes 1, 3q, 5p, and 6 and lost chromosomes 3p, 4, 5q, 7, 10, and 13. MCC tumors with less genomic aberration were associated with improved survival (P=0.04). Tumors from 13 of 22 MCC patients had detectable Merkel cell polyomavirus DNA, and these tumors had fewer genomic deletions. Three regions of genomic alteration were of particular interest: a deletion of 5q12-21 occurred in 26% of tumors, a deletion of 13q14-21 was recurrent in 26% of tumors and contains the well-characterized tumor suppressor RB1, and a previously unreported focal amplification at 1p34 was present in 39% of tumors and centers on L-Myc (MYCL1). L-Myc is related to the c-Myc proto-oncogene, has transforming activity, and is amplified in the closely related small cell lung cancer. Normal skin showed no L-Myc expression, whereas 4/4 MCC specimens tested expressed L-Myc RNA in relative proportion to the DNA copy number gain. These findings suggest several genes that may contribute to MCC pathogenesis, most notably L-Myc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly G Paulson
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98109, USA
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T antigen mutations are a human tumor-specific signature for Merkel cell polyomavirus. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2008; 105:16272-7. [PMID: 18812503 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0806526105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 524] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCV) is a virus discovered in our laboratory at the University of Pittsburgh that is monoclonally integrated into the genome of approximately 80% of human Merkel cell carcinomas (MCCs). Transcript mapping was performed to show that MCV expresses transcripts in MCCs similar to large T (LT), small T (ST), and 17kT transcripts of SV40. Nine MCC tumor-derived LT genomic sequences have been examined, and all were found to harbor mutations prematurely truncating the MCV LT helicase. In contrast, four presumed episomal viruses from nontumor sources did not possess this T antigen signature mutation. Using coimmunoprecipitation and origin replication assays, we show that tumor-derived virus mutations do not affect retinoblastoma tumor suppressor protein (Rb) binding by LT but do eliminate viral DNA replication capacity. Identification of an MCC cell line (MKL-1) having monoclonal MCV integration and the signature LT mutation allowed us to functionally test both tumor-derived and wild type (WT) T antigens. Only WT LT expression activates replication of integrated MCV DNA in MKL-1 cells. Our findings suggest that MCV-positive MCC tumor cells undergo selection for LT mutations to prevent autoactivation of integrated virus replication that would be detrimental to cell survival. Because these mutations render the virus replication-incompetent, MCV is not a "passenger virus" that secondarily infects MCC tumors.
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Eng TY, Boersma MG, Fuller CD, Goytia V, Jones WE, Joyner M, Nguyen DD. A comprehensive review of the treatment of Merkel cell carcinoma. Am J Clin Oncol 2008; 30:624-36. [PMID: 18091058 DOI: 10.1097/coc.0b013e318142c882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an uncommon but malignant cutaneous neuroendocrine carcinoma with a high incidence of local recurrence, regional lymph node metastases, and subsequent distant metastases. The etiology of MCC remains unknown. It usually occurs in sun-exposed areas in elderly people, many of whom have a history of other synchronous or metachronous sun-associated skin lesions. The outcome for most patients with MCC is generally poor. Surgery is the mainstay of treatment. The role of adjuvant therapy has been debated. However, data from recent development support a multimodality approach, including surgical excision of primary tumor with adequate margins and sentinel lymph node dissection followed by postoperative radiotherapy in most cases, as current choice of practice with better locoregional control and disease-free survival. Patients with regional nodal involvement or advanced disease should undergo nodal dissection followed by adjuvant radiotherapy and, perhaps, systemic platinum-based chemotherapy in most cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tony Y Eng
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA.
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Bichakjian CK, Lowe L, Lao CD, Sandler HM, Bradford CR, Johnson TM, Wong SL. Merkel cell carcinoma: critical review with guidelines for multidisciplinary management. Cancer 2007; 110:1-12. [PMID: 17520670 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.22765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 265] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a relatively rare cutaneous malignancy that occurs predominantly in the older white population. The incidence of MCC appears to have tripled during the past 20 years; an increase that is likely to continue because of the growing number of older Americans. The pathogenesis of MCC remains largely unknown. However, ultraviolet radiation and immunosuppression are likely to play a significant pathogenetic role. Many questions currently remain unanswered regarding the biologic behavior and optimal treatment of MCC. Large, prospective, randomized studies are not available and are unlikely to be performed because of the rarity of the disease. The objective of this review was to provide a comprehensive reference for MCC based on a critical evaluation of the current data. The authors investigated the importance of sentinel lymph node biopsy as a staging tool for MCC to assess the status of the regional lymph node basin and to determine the need for additional therapy to the lymph node basin. In an attempt to standardize prospective data collection with the intention to define prognostic indicators, the authors also present histopathologic profiles for primary MCC and sentinel lymph nodes. The controversies regarding the appropriate surgical approach to primary MCC, the use of adjuvant radiation therapy, and the effectiveness of adjuvant chemotherapy were examined critically. Finally, the authors have provided treatment guidelines based on the available evidence and their multidisciplinary experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher K Bichakjian
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-0314, USA.
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Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare, aggressive cutaneous cancer that predominately affects elderly Caucasians with fair skin and has a propensity for local recurrence and regional lymph node metastases. A variety of terms have been used to describe this tumor, including trabecular cell carcinoma, neuroendocrine or primary small cell carcinoma of the skin, and anaplastic cancer of the skin. Although the skin lesion is most commonly found on sun-exposed areas of the head and neck or extremities, it can occur on the trunk, genitalia, and perianal region. The median age is 69 years, but it may occur earlier and more frequently in immunosuppressed patients. Patients with MCC frequently present with a nonspecific erythematous or violaceous firm nodule or small plaque that may be surrounded by small satellite tumors. MCC usually arises in the dermis and extends into the subcutis. It may be difficult to accurately diagnose MCC by light microscopy alone and ancillary techniques, including electron microscopy and immunohistochemistry, may be necessary to make a definitive diagnosis. Management of MCC is dependent on stage of the disease and is hampered by its rarity and lack of randomized trials. Nonetheless, for localized disease most guidelines include wide local excision of the primary tumor either alone or with radiation therapy. Sentinel lymph node biopsy can be helpful in staging and prognosis, but its benefit in survival remains to be seen. Systemic chemotherapy, akin to regimens for small cell carcinoma of the lung, may be considered as an adjuvant following surgery or to treat locoregional or distant disease. The prognosis of MCC is variable. Some patients with localized disease have an indolent course and are well controlled with local excision alone. On the other hand, many tumors are aggressive and have a tendency for locoregional recurrence and distant metastases. Such patients have a grim prognosis with a median survival of 9 months. Successful outcomes are most often seen in patients with early diagnosis and complete excision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Howard Swann
- Department of Dermatology, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, MO 65212, USA.
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Liu S, Daa T, Kashima K, Kondoh Y, Yokoyama S. The Wnt-signaling pathway is not implicated in tumorigenesis of Merkel cell carcinoma. J Cutan Pathol 2007; 34:22-6. [PMID: 17214850 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0560.2006.00577.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Wnt-signaling pathway, involving beta-catenin, apc, and axin, plays a critical role in numerous developmental events. Alterations in the Wnt-signaling pathway have been detected in a wide variety of neoplasms. However, similar aberrations have not been described in Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC). The aim of this study was to determine the status of the Wnt-signaling pathway in MCC. METHODS Twelve cases of MCC were tested for the expression of beta-catenin and mutational status of CTNNB1 (gene for beta-catenin), APC, AXIN1, and AXIN2. Genomic DNA extracted from paraffin blocks was subjected to a polymerase chain reaction/single-strand conformation polymorphism analysis and sequencing. RESULTS Nuclear accumulation of beta-catenin was observed in only one case (8.3%), as determined by immunochemistry. No mutations were found in CTNNB1, APC, and AXIN2 in all cases, although silent mutations in AXIN1 were detected in three cases. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that the Wnt-signaling pathway does not play an important role in tumorigenesis in MCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Liu
- First Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University, Oita, Japan
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Kearney L. Multiplex-FISH (M-FISH): technique, developments and applications. Cytogenet Genome Res 2006; 114:189-98. [PMID: 16954655 DOI: 10.1159/000094202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2006] [Accepted: 04/06/2006] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiplex FISH (M-FISH) represents one of the most significant developments in molecular cytogenetics of the past decade. Originally designed to generate 24 colour karyotyping, the technique has spawned many variations and an equally diverse range of applications. In tumour and leukaemia cytogenetics, the two groups that have been targeted represent both ends of the cytogenetic spectrum: those with an apparently normal karyotype (suspected of harbouring small rearrangements not detectable by conventional cytogenetics) and those with a complex aberrant karyotype (which are difficult to karyotype accurately due to the sheer number of aberrations). In research, mouse M-FISH provides a powerful tool to characterize mouse models of a disease. In addition, the ability to accurately karyotype single metaphases without selection makes M-FISH the perfect tool in chromosome breakage studies and for characterizing clonal evolution of tumours. Finally, M-FISH has emerged as the perfect partner for the developing genomic microarray (array CGH) technologies, providing a powerful approach to gene discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Kearney
- Section of Haemato-Oncology, Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK.
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Manor E, Bellaiche E, Bodner L. Cytogenetic findings of a primary Merkel cell carcinoma. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006; 169:78-80. [PMID: 16875943 DOI: 10.1016/j.cancergencyto.2006.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2006] [Revised: 02/03/2006] [Accepted: 02/06/2006] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Degeorges R, Reynaud C, Welby F, Belkheyar Z, Abbey-Toby A, Alnot JY. [Merkel cell carcinoma of the skin: two case reports located at the hand, with a review of litterature]. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006; 25:22-6. [PMID: 16610517 DOI: 10.1016/j.main.2005.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The Merkel cell carcinoma of the skin are rare neuroendocrine tumours, with a dermal location. Their severity and metastatic potential are higher than cutaneous melanomas'. Two cases are reported at the hand. A review of literature displays the pejorative prognosis of these tumours. Hand surgeons must be aware of them, in order to fasten the diagnosis and include the patient among a multidisciplinary medical team.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Degeorges
- Service de Chirurgie Orthopédique et Traumatologique, Hôpital Bichat, 46, rue Henri-Huchard, 75018 Paris.
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