1
|
Feitosa PMFA, Hirth CG, Silva-Fernandes IJDL, Dornelas CA. The relevance of ERG immunoexpression intensity for prostatic adenocarcinoma in radical prostatectomy of 635 samples. APMIS 2023; 131:465-471. [PMID: 37439391 DOI: 10.1111/apm.13330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
Prostate cancer is the world's most frequently diagnosed malignancy in men. Recent work suggests that patients with high ERG expression intensity are significantly more likely to develop biochemical relapse and metastasis, and die of prostate cancer. The objective of this study was to determine the relationship between the intensity of ERG protein expression and the staging of prostate cancer and the formation of metastases in 635 samples. A retrospective cohort analysis was performed using immunohistochemistry reactions in tissue microarray samples taken from non-neoplastic and neoplastic prostate tissue from patients who underwent radical prostatectomies at a reference hospital from 2009 to 2016. For the ERG marker analysis, the samples were scored for the presence or absence of nuclear signals. Weak, moderate, or strong intensity of the nuclei of the observable tumor cells was considered to be positive markers. All told, 635 samples were evaluated, and the ERG expression was inconclusive in 9% of cases, while 30% were positive and 61% were negative. Of the samples with positive result: 25.8% were weak and focal, 53.2% were moderate, and 21% were strong. Finally, 21% of the cases with a positive ERG had a high Gleason score. Metastasis was detected in 41% of the patients who were ERG positive, and of these, the majority had moderate marking and were aged older than 60 years, although there was no statistically significant difference between the older and younger age groups. Patients with moderate to strong ERG staining had higher staging compared to the others, and no increase in metastasis was detected in patients with more intense ERG expression. More studies should be carried out to corroborate these results and to reach a consensus on the intensity and scoring of the expression levels of ERG markers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Priscilla Mariana Freitas Aguiar Feitosa
- Department of Pathology and Forensic Medicine, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
- Argos Laboratory in Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
- Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Carlos Gustavo Hirth
- Department of Pathology and Forensic Medicine, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
- Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | | | - Conceição Aparecida Dornelas
- Department of Pathology and Forensic Medicine, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
- Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical-Surgical Medical Sciences, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
- State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de janeiro, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
PACE4-altCT isoform of proprotein convertase PACE4 as tissue and plasmatic biomarker for prostate cancer. Sci Rep 2022; 12:6066. [PMID: 35410344 PMCID: PMC9001653 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-09778-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractThe proprotein convertase PACE4 has demonstrated value as a viable therapeutic target in prostate cancer (PCa). A novel isoform named PACE4-altCT, which arises in neoplastic lesions, plays an important role in tumor progression and has been validated as a pharmacological target. With the discovery of its overexpression in PCa and the alternative splicing of its pre-RNA to generate an oncogenic C-terminally modified isoform named PACE4-altCT, understanding and validating its value as a potential biomarker is of great interest either from prognostic or targeted therapy intervention. Expression of ERG in LNCaP cells was used to investigate the relationship between ERG expression occurring in PCa cells and PACE4-altCT expression by Western blot and qPCR. Using immunohistochemistry, the expression levels of PACE4 isoforms in patient tissues were investigated and correlated with ERG tumor status and Gleason score. An ELISA method was developed using affinity purified recombinant protein and used for quantitative analysis of plasma concentrations of PACE4-altCT and used for correlation. In contrast with the consensual isoform, PACE4-altCT was only strongly overexpressed in prostate cancer patients, correlated with ERG expression levels. Despite its intracellular retention PACE4-altCT could be detected in the plasma of most patients with prostate cancer, whereas it was only found at low levels in normal patients whereas total plasmatic PACE4 levels did not vary significantly between groups. Our study demonstrates that PACE4-altCT is strongly overexpressed in prostate cancer using both immunohistochemical and ELISA techniques and may have some interesting potential as a biomarker.
Collapse
|
3
|
Borkowetz A, Froehner M, Rauner M, Conrad S, Erdmann K, Mayr T, Datta K, Hofbauer LC, Baretton GB, Wirth M, Fuessel S, Toma M, Muders MH. Neuropilin‐2 is an independent prognostic factor for shorter cancer‐specific survival in patients with acinar adenocarcinoma of the prostate. Int J Cancer 2019; 146:2619-2627. [DOI: 10.1002/ijc.32679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2019] [Revised: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 08/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Martina Rauner
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Bone Diseases, Department of Medicine III Technische Universität Dresden Germany
| | - Stefanie Conrad
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Bone Diseases, Department of Medicine III Technische Universität Dresden Germany
| | - Kati Erdmann
- Department of Urology Technische Universität Dresden Germany
| | - Thomas Mayr
- Institute of Pathology, Technische Universität Dresden Germany
| | - Kaustubh Datta
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha NE
| | - Lorenz C. Hofbauer
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Bone Diseases, Department of Medicine III Technische Universität Dresden Germany
| | - Gustavo B. Baretton
- Institute of Pathology, Technische Universität Dresden Germany
- Tumor and Normal Tissue Bank of the University Cancer Center (UCC), University Hospital and Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden Dresden Germany
| | - Manfred Wirth
- Department of Urology Technische Universität Dresden Germany
| | - Susanne Fuessel
- Department of Urology Technische Universität Dresden Germany
| | - Marietta Toma
- Institute of Pathology, Technische Universität Dresden Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Xu Z, Wang Y, Xiao ZG, Zou C, Zhang X, Wang Z, Wu D, Yu S, Chan FL. Nuclear receptor ERRα and transcription factor ERG form a reciprocal loop in the regulation of TMPRSS2:ERG fusion gene in prostate cancer. Oncogene 2018; 37:6259-6274. [PMID: 30042415 PMCID: PMC6265259 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-018-0409-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2017] [Revised: 05/17/2018] [Accepted: 06/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The TMPRSS2:ERG (T:E) fusion gene is generally believed to be mainly regulated by the activated androgen receptor (AR) signaling in androgen-dependent prostate cancer. However, its persistent expression in castration-resistant and neuroendocrine prostate cancers implies that other transcription factors might also regulate its expression. Here, we showed that up-regulation of nuclear receptor estrogen-related receptor alpha (ERRα) was closely associated with the oncogenic transcription factor ERG expression in prostate cancer, and their increased coexpression patterns were closely associated with high Gleason scores and metastasis in patients. Both ERRα and ERG exhibited a positive expression correlation in a castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) xenograft model VCaP-CRPC. We showed that ERRα could directly transactivate T:E fusion gene in both AR-positive and -negative prostate cancer cells via both ERR-binding element- and AR-binding element-dependent manners. Ectopic T:E expression under ERRα regulation could promote both in vitro invasion and in vivo metastasis capacities of AR-negative prostatic cells. Intriguingly, ERG expressed by the T:E fusion could also transactivate the ERRα (ESRRA) gene. Hereby, ERRα and ERG can synergistically regulate each other and form a reciprocal regulatory loop to promote the advanced growth of prostate cancer. Inhibition of ERRα activity by ERRα inverse agonist could suppress T:E expression in prostate cancer cells, implicating that targeting ERRα could be a potential therapeutic strategy for treating the aggressive T:E-positive prostate cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhenyu Xu
- Department of Pharmacy, Yijishan Affiliated Hospital, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yuliang Wang
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zhan Gang Xiao
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Pharmacology, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Chang Zou
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Clinical Medical Research Center, Shenzhen People's Hospital, Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xian Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Yijishan Affiliated Hospital, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China
| | - Zhu Wang
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Dinglan Wu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Shan Yu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Franky Leung Chan
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Mancarella C, Casanova-Salas I, Calatrava A, García-Flores M, Garofalo C, Grilli A, Rubio-Briones J, Scotlandi K, López-Guerrero JA. Insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor affects the survival of primary prostate cancer patients depending on TMPRSS2-ERG status. BMC Cancer 2017; 17:367. [PMID: 28545426 PMCID: PMC5445474 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-017-3356-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2016] [Accepted: 05/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prostate cancer (PCa) is characterized by clinical and biological heterogeneity and has differential outcomes and mortality rates. Therefore, it is necessary to identify molecular alterations to define new therapeutic strategies based on the risk of progression. In this study, the prognostic relevance of the insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system was examined in molecular subtypes defined by TMPRSS2-ERG (T2E) gene fusion within a series of patients with primary localized PCa. METHODS A cohort of 270 formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded (FFPE) primary PCa samples from patients with more than 5 years' follow-up was collected. IGF-1R, IGF-1, IGFBP-3 and INSR expression was analyzed using quantitative RT-PCR. The T2E status and immunohistochemical ERG findings were considered in the analyses. The association with both biochemical and clinical progression-free survival (BPFS and PFS, respectively) was evaluated for the different molecular subtypes using the Kaplan-Meier proportional risk log-rank test and the Cox proportional hazards model. RESULTS An association between IGF-1R overexpression and better BPFS was found in T2E-negative patients (35.3% BPFS, p-value = 0.016). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that IGF-1R expression constitutes an independent variable in T2E-negative patients [HR: 0.41. CI 95% (0.2-0.82), p = 0.013]. These data were confirmed using immunohistochemistry of ERG as subrogate of T2E. High IGF-1 expression correlated with prolonged BPFS and PFS independent of the T2E status. CONCLUSIONS IGF-1R, a reported target of T2E, constitutes an independent factor for good prognosis in T2E-negative PCa. Quantitative evaluation of IGF-1/IGF-1R expression combined with molecular assessment of T2E status or ERG protein expression represents a useful marker for tumor progression in localized PCa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caterina Mancarella
- CRS Development of Biomolecular Therapies, Experimental Oncology Laboratory, Rizzoli Orthopedic Institute, via di Barbiano, 1/10, 40136 Bologna, Italy
| | - Irene Casanova-Salas
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Oncología, C/ Prof. Beltrán Báguena, 8, 46009 Valencia, Spain
| | - Ana Calatrava
- Department of Pathology, Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Oncología, C/ Prof. Beltrán Báguena, 8, 46009 Valencia, Spain
| | - Maria García-Flores
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Oncología, C/ Prof. Beltrán Báguena, 8, 46009 Valencia, Spain
| | - Cecilia Garofalo
- CRS Development of Biomolecular Therapies, Experimental Oncology Laboratory, Rizzoli Orthopedic Institute, via di Barbiano, 1/10, 40136 Bologna, Italy
| | - Andrea Grilli
- CRS Development of Biomolecular Therapies, Experimental Oncology Laboratory, Rizzoli Orthopedic Institute, via di Barbiano, 1/10, 40136 Bologna, Italy
| | - José Rubio-Briones
- Department of Urology, Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Oncología, C/ Prof. Beltrán Báguena, 8, 46009 Valencia, Spain
| | - Katia Scotlandi
- CRS Development of Biomolecular Therapies, Experimental Oncology Laboratory, Rizzoli Orthopedic Institute, via di Barbiano, 1/10, 40136 Bologna, Italy
| | - José Antonio López-Guerrero
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Oncología, C/ Prof. Beltrán Báguena, 8, 46009 Valencia, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Downes MR, Satturwar S, Trudel D, van der Kwast TH. Evaluation of ERG and PTEN protein expression in cribriform architecture prostate carcinomas. Pathol Res Pract 2017; 213:34-38. [DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2016.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2016] [Accepted: 10/19/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
|
7
|
Mao Y, Li K, Lu L, Si-Tu J, Lu M, Gao X. Overexpression of Cdc20 in clinically localized prostate cancer: Relation to high Gleason score and biochemical recurrence after laparoscopic radical prostatectomy. Cancer Biomark 2016; 16:351-8. [PMID: 26889981 DOI: 10.3233/cbm-160573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study was aimed to explore Cdc20 expression and its correlation with clinicopathological characteristics and biochemical recurrence (BCR) after laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP) in clinically localized prostate cancer (PCa). METHODS Cdc20 expression was examined by immunohistochemistry in 166 cases, including 60 cases of benign hyperplasia of prostate (BPH) patients treated by transurethral resection and 106 cases of consecutive PCa patients treated by LRP without neoadjuvant therapy in a single Chinese institution. The correlation with clinicopathological features and the predictive value for BCR were statistically analyzed. RESULTS Cdc20 expression was detected in 52 (86.7%) BPH and 97 (91.5%) PCa samples, which was statistically insignificant (P= 0.675). The rate of patients with high expression of Cdc20 was 21.7% in BPH and 37.7% in PCa (P= 0.033). A correlation was revealed between Cdc20 expression and postoperative Gleason scores (P= 0.046), positive surgical margin (P< 0.001). BCR-free survival was significantly lower in patients with high Cdc20 expression than those with low Cdc20 expression (P= 0.018). Univariate analysis indicated pTstage, post operative Gleason score, seminal vesicle invasion, lymph node invasion, surgical margin and Cdc20 expression significantly influenced BCR. Multivariate analysis revealed that postoperative Gleason score, seminal vesicle invasion, lymph node invasion, surgical margin and Cdc20 expression were independent predictors for BCR. After stratified by Gleason score and surgical margin status, Cdc20 expression and lymph node invasion remained significant in Cox regression analysis. CONCLUSIONS Overexpression of Cdc20 may serve as an independent predictor for BCR in patients of clinically localized PCa undergoing LRP without neoadjuvant therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yunhua Mao
- Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Ke Li
- Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Li Lu
- Department of Urology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jie Si-Tu
- Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Minhua Lu
- Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xin Gao
- Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Zhang HY, Ma YD, Zhang Y, Cui J, Wang ZM. Elevated levels of autophagy-related marker ULK1 and mitochondrion-associated autophagy inhibitor LRPPRC are associated with biochemical progression and overall survival after androgen deprivation therapy in patients with metastatic prostate cancer. J Clin Pathol 2016; 70:383-389. [PMID: 27679555 DOI: 10.1136/jclinpath-2016-203926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2016] [Revised: 09/01/2016] [Accepted: 09/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
AIM To evaluate the expression levels and prognostic significance of autophagy-related markers, UNC-51-like kinase1 (ULK1), Beclin1, microtubule-associated protein light chain 3 (LC3), autophagy-related gene 5 (ATG5) and mitochondrion-associated autophagy inhibitor, LRPPRC, in patients with metastatic prostate cancer (PCa) after androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). METHODS Expressions of ULK1, Beclin1, LC3, ATG5 and LRPPRC were assessed by immunohistochemical examination in 198 patients with metastatic PCa who were receiving ADT (goserelin and bicalutamide). RESULTS High expression levels of LRPPRC and ULK1were significantly associated with Gleason score, serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels, PSA levels after ADT and number of metastatic sites. High expression of ULK1 in patients with concomitant high expression of LRPPRC was significantly associated with multiple metastases, shorter biochemical progression (BCP)-free survival and shorter overall survival (OS). ULK1 expression, LRPPRC expression, Gleason score, PSA levels after ADT and number of metastatic sites were independently associated with shorter BCP-free survival and OS on multivariate analysis. Furthermore, two-year BCP rate of patients with ≥3 risk factors was found to be significantly higher as compared with that of patients with ≤1 and 2 risk factors. Three-year OS rate in patients with ≥3 risk factors was significantly lower than that of those with ≤1 and 2 risk factors. CONCLUSIONS High expression of ULK1 concomitant with high expression of LRPPRC may serve as useful markers for shorter BCP-free survival and OS in patients with metastatic PCa after ADT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Yi Zhang
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, People's Republic of China.,Department of Urology, Yanan University Affiliated Hospital, Yan'an, Shaanxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Ya-Dong Ma
- Department of Urology, Yanan University Affiliated Hospital, Yan'an, Shaanxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Ye Zhang
- Department of Urology, Yanan University Affiliated Hospital, Yan'an, Shaanxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Cui
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Zi-Ming Wang
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Abstract
Although most prostate cancer (PCa) cases are not life-threatening, approximately 293 000 men worldwide die annually due to PCa. These lethal cases are thought to be caused by coordinated genomic alterations that accumulate over time. Recent genome-wide analyses of DNA from subjects with PCa have revealed most, if not all, genetic changes in both germline and PCa tumor genomes. In this article, I first review the major, somatically acquired genomic characteristics of various subtypes of PCa. I then recap key findings on the relationships between genomic alterations and clinical parameters, such as biochemical recurrence or clinical relapse, metastasis and cancer-specific mortality. Finally, I outline the need for, and challenges with, validation of recent findings in prospective studies for clinical utility. It is clearer now than ever before that the landscape of somatically acquired aberrations in PCa is highlighted by DNA copy number alterations (CNAs) and TMPRSS2-ERG fusion derived from complex rearrangements, numerous single nucleotide variations or mutations, tremendous heterogeneity, and continuously punctuated evolution. Genome-wide CNAs, PTEN loss, MYC gain in primary tumors, and TP53 loss/mutation and AR amplification/mutation in advanced metastatic PCa have consistently been associated with worse cancer prognosis. With this recently gained knowledge, it is now an opportune time to develop DNA-based tests that provide more accurate patient stratification for prediction of clinical outcome, which will ultimately lead to more personalized cancer care than is possible at present.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wennuan Liu
- Program for Personalized Cancer Care, Research Institute, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, IL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Udager AM, De Marzo AM, Shi Y, Hicks JL, Cao X, Siddiqui J, Jiang H, Chinnaiyan AM, Mehra R. Concurrent nuclear ERG and MYC protein overexpression defines a subset of locally advanced prostate cancer: Potential opportunities for synergistic targeted therapeutics. Prostate 2016; 76:845-53. [PMID: 27159573 PMCID: PMC4975940 DOI: 10.1002/pros.23175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2015] [Accepted: 02/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recurrent ERG gene fusions, the most common genetic alterations in prostate cancer, drive overexpression of the nuclear transcription factor ERG, and are early clonal events in prostate cancer progression. The nuclear transcription factor MYC is also frequently overexpressed in prostate cancer and may play a role in tumor initiation and/or progression. The relationship between nuclear ERG and MYC protein overexpression in prostate cancer, as well as the clinicopathologic characteristics and prognosis of ERG-positive/MYC high tumors, is not well understood. METHODS Immunohistochemistry (IHC) for ERG and MYC was performed on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue from prostate cancer tissue microarrays (TMAs), and nuclear staining was scored semi-quantitatively (IHC product score range = 0-300). Correlation between nuclear ERG and MYC protein expression and association with clinicopathologic parameters and biochemical recurrence after radical prostatectomy was assessed. RESULTS 29.1% of all tumor nodules showed concurrent nuclear ERG and MYC protein overexpression (i.e., ERG-positive/MYC high), including 35.0% of secondary nodules. Overall, there was weak positive correlation between ERG and MYC expression across all tumor nodules (rpb = 0.149, P = 0.045), although this correlation was strongest in secondary nodules (rpb = 0.520, P = 0.019). In radical prostatectomy specimens, ERG-positive/MYC high tumors were positively associated with the presence of extraprostatic extension (EPE), relative to all other ERG/MYC expression subgroups, however, there was no significant association between concurrent nuclear ERG and MYC protein overexpression and time to biochemical recurrence. CONCLUSIONS Concurrent nuclear ERG and MYC protein overexpression is common in prostate cancer and defines a subset of locally advanced tumors. Recent data indicates that BET bromodomain proteins regulate ERG gene fusion and MYC gene expression in prostate cancer, suggesting possible synergistic targeted therapeutics in ERG-positive/MYC high tumors. Prostate 76:845-853, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aaron M. Udager
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Angelo M. De Marzo
- Department of Pathology, The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center and The James Buchanan Brady Urological Institute, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Yang Shi
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Jessica L. Hicks
- Department of Pathology, The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center and The James Buchanan Brady Urological Institute, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Xuhong Cao
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Javed Siddiqui
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Hui Jiang
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Arul M. Chinnaiyan
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, Ann Arbor, MI
- Department of Urology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Rohit Mehra
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, Ann Arbor, MI
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
ERG expression in prostate cancer: biological relevance and clinical implication. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2015; 142:1781-93. [DOI: 10.1007/s00432-015-2096-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2015] [Accepted: 12/10/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
|
12
|
Sung JY, Jeon HG, Jeong BC, Seo SI, Jeon SS, Lee HM, Choi HY, Kang SY, Choi YL, Kwon GY. Correlation of ERG immunohistochemistry with molecular detection of TMPRSS2-ERG gene fusion. J Clin Pathol 2015; 69:586-92. [DOI: 10.1136/jclinpath-2015-203314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2015] [Accepted: 11/22/2015] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
AimsTMPRSS2/E26 transformation-specific (ETS) family gene fusion in prostate carcinoma (PCa) can be detected by several methods including immunohistochemistry (IHC) for ETS-related gene (ERG), the diagnostic utility of which has not been clearly defined.MethodsWe explored TMPRSS2-ERG gene rearrangement status in 132 patients with PCa with four detection methods including fluorescence in situ hybridisation for TMPRSS2-ERG fusion, real-time reverse transcription PCR (RT-qPCR) for ERG and TMPRSS-ERG fusion transcript mRNA and IHC for ERG.ResultsConcordant results were found in 126 cases for the four detection methods and the remaining six cases showed discrepancy in one method: two cases in IHC, three cases in RT-qPCR for ERG and one case in RT-qPCR for fusion transcript. In discordant cases, the majority results were determined as final fusion status. Analysis of discrepancy cases for ERG IHC showed that weak immunoreactivity for ERG should be regarded as equivocal and that even strong immunoreactivity can be false positive. The overall incidence of TMPRSS-ERG gene fusion was 24%.ConclusionsERG IHC is a useful surrogate test for the detection of TMPRSS2-ERG gene fusion, but it needs to be interpreted with caution and definite judgement should not be based on IHC alone. A relatively low incidence of TMPRSS2-ERG gene fusion was demonstrated in this Korean cohort.
Collapse
|
13
|
Font-Tello A, Juanpere N, de Muga S, Lorenzo M, Lorente JA, Fumado L, Serrano L, Serrano S, Lloreta J, Hernández S. Association of ERG and TMPRSS2-ERG with grade, stage, and prognosis of prostate cancer is dependent on their expression levels. Prostate 2015; 75:1216-26. [PMID: 25939480 DOI: 10.1002/pros.23004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2014] [Accepted: 03/26/2015] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is controversy in the literature on the role of the fusion TMPRSS2-ERG in the pathogenesis and progression of prostate cancer. The quantitative differences in TMPRSS2-ERG fusion expression have received very limited attention in the literature. METHODS We have quantitatively analyzed the mRNA levels of TMPRSS2-ERG, ERG, PTEN, and AR (n = 83), as well as ERG immunostaining (n = 78) in a series of prostate tumors. RESULTS Among the TMPRSS2-ERG cases (n = 57), high fusion levels were associated with GS ≥8 (P = 0.025). ERG mRNA overexpression was associated with GS ≥8 (P = 0.047), and with stage T3-T4 tumors (P = 0.032). Among the ERG overexpressing cases (n = 54), higher expression levels were found in 92.3% of GS ≥8 tumors (P = 0.02). ERG immunostaining, regardless of staining intensity, was also associated with high stage (P = 0.05). There was a statistical association between ERG immunostaining and PSA progression-free survival (Log Rank test, P = 0.048). Decreased PTEN expression was associated with TMPRSS2-ERG (P = 0.01), ERG mRNA overexpression (P = 0.003) and ERG immunostaining (P = 0.007). Furthermore, decreased PTEN expression, alone (P = 0.041) and also combined with TMPRSS2-ERG (P = 0.04) or with ERG overexpression (P = 0.04) was associated with GS ≥7 tumors. CONCLUSIONS Although more studies are needed to further clarify their role, our findings emphasize that the expression levels of the TMPRSS2-ERG fusion and ERG mRNA, rather than their mere presence, are related to a more aggressive phenotype, have an effect on prognosis and could be molecular markers of progression for prostate cancer. Furthermore, ERG immunohistochemistry could be also a potentially useful prognostic factor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alba Font-Tello
- Department of Pathology, Hospital del Mar-Parc de Salut Mar-IMIM, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Núria Juanpere
- Department of Pathology, Hospital del Mar-Parc de Salut Mar-IMIM, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Health and Experimental Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Silvia de Muga
- Department of Health and Experimental Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Lorenzo
- Department of Pathology, Hospital del Mar-Parc de Salut Mar-IMIM, Barcelona, Spain
| | - José A Lorente
- Department of Urology, Hospital del Mar-Parc de Salut Mar-IMIM, Barcelona, Spain
- Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lluis Fumado
- Department of Urology, Hospital del Mar-Parc de Salut Mar-IMIM, Barcelona, Spain
- Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laia Serrano
- Department of Pathology, Hospital Universitari Germans Tries i Pujol, Barcelona, Spain
- Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sergio Serrano
- Department of Pathology, Hospital del Mar-Parc de Salut Mar-IMIM, Barcelona, Spain
- Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josep Lloreta
- Department of Pathology, Hospital del Mar-Parc de Salut Mar-IMIM, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Health and Experimental Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Silvia Hernández
- Department of Health and Experimental Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Ayala G, Frolov A, Chatterjee D, He D, Hilsenbeck S, Ittmann M. Expression of ERG protein in prostate cancer: variability and biological correlates. Endocr Relat Cancer 2015; 22:277-87. [PMID: 25972242 PMCID: PMC4432248 DOI: 10.1530/erc-14-0586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related death of men in the USA. The TMPRSS2/ERG (T/E) fusion gene is present in approximately 50% of prostate cancers and promotes tumor progression in vivo. The presence of the T/E fusion gene is strongly associated with the expression of ERG protein, but emerging evidence indicates a significant interfocal and intrafocal variability in the levels of ERG protein expression. We therefore analyzed ERG protein expression by image analysis to objectively quantitate the extent of such heterogeneity, and confirmed significant interfocal and intrafocal variability of ERG protein expression levels in cancer expressing ERG. To define the pathways associated with ERG and its variable expression in prostate cancer, we have analyzed the correlations of ERG expression, as evaluated by immunohistochemistry, with 46 key proteins associated with signal transduction, transcriptional control, and other processes using a large tissue microarray with more than 500 prostate cancers. We found a significant correlation of ERG expression with the markers of activation of the PI3K, MYC, and NFκB pathways, which had previously been linked directly or indirectly to ERG expression. We have also identified significant correlations with novel proteins that have not been previously linked to ERG expression, including serum response factor, the p160 coactivator SRC1, and Sprouty1. Notably, SKP2 only correlated with a high level of ERG protein expression. Thus ERG expression is variable in prostate cancer and is associated with activation of multiple pathways and proteins including several potentially targetable pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo Ayala
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory MedicineUniversity of Texas Health Sciences Center Medical School, Houston, Texas, USADan L. Duncan Cancer CenterHouston, Texas, USADepartment of Pathology and ImmunologyBaylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, Texas 77030, USADepartment of Veterans AffairsMichael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Anna Frolov
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory MedicineUniversity of Texas Health Sciences Center Medical School, Houston, Texas, USADan L. Duncan Cancer CenterHouston, Texas, USADepartment of Pathology and ImmunologyBaylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, Texas 77030, USADepartment of Veterans AffairsMichael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA Department of Pathology and Laboratory MedicineUniversity of Texas Health Sciences Center Medical School, Houston, Texas, USADan L. Duncan Cancer CenterHouston, Texas, USADepartment of Pathology and ImmunologyBaylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, Texas 77030, USADepartment of Veterans AffairsMichael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Deyali Chatterjee
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory MedicineUniversity of Texas Health Sciences Center Medical School, Houston, Texas, USADan L. Duncan Cancer CenterHouston, Texas, USADepartment of Pathology and ImmunologyBaylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, Texas 77030, USADepartment of Veterans AffairsMichael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Dandan He
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory MedicineUniversity of Texas Health Sciences Center Medical School, Houston, Texas, USADan L. Duncan Cancer CenterHouston, Texas, USADepartment of Pathology and ImmunologyBaylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, Texas 77030, USADepartment of Veterans AffairsMichael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Susan Hilsenbeck
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory MedicineUniversity of Texas Health Sciences Center Medical School, Houston, Texas, USADan L. Duncan Cancer CenterHouston, Texas, USADepartment of Pathology and ImmunologyBaylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, Texas 77030, USADepartment of Veterans AffairsMichael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Michael Ittmann
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory MedicineUniversity of Texas Health Sciences Center Medical School, Houston, Texas, USADan L. Duncan Cancer CenterHouston, Texas, USADepartment of Pathology and ImmunologyBaylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, Texas 77030, USADepartment of Veterans AffairsMichael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA Department of Pathology and Laboratory MedicineUniversity of Texas Health Sciences Center Medical School, Houston, Texas, USADan L. Duncan Cancer CenterHouston, Texas, USADepartment of Pathology and ImmunologyBaylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, Texas 77030, USADepartment of Veterans AffairsMichael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Urbinati G, Ali HM, Rousseau Q, Chapuis H, Desmaële D, Couvreur P, Massaad-Massade L. Antineoplastic Effects of siRNA against TMPRSS2-ERG Junction Oncogene in Prostate Cancer. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0125277. [PMID: 25933120 PMCID: PMC4416711 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0125277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2015] [Accepted: 03/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
TMPRSS2-ERG junction oncogene is present in more than 50% of patients with prostate cancer and its expression is frequently associated with poor prognosis. Our aim is to achieve gene knockdown by siRNA TMPRSS2-ERG and then to assess the biological consequences of this inhibition. First, we designed siRNAs against the two TMPRSS2-ERG fusion variants (III and IV), most frequently identified in patients’ biopsies. Two of the five siRNAs tested were found to efficiently inhibit mRNA of both TMPRSS2-ERG variants and to decrease ERG protein expression. Microarray analysis further confirmed ERG inhibition by both siRNAs TMPRSS2-ERG and revealed one common down-regulated gene, ADRA2A, involved in cell proliferation and migration. The siRNA against TMPRSS2-ERG fusion variant IV showed the highest anti-proliferative effects: Significantly decreased cell viability, increased cleaved caspase-3 and inhibited a cluster of anti-apoptotic proteins. To propose a concrete therapeutic approach, siRNA TMPRSS2-ERG IV was conjugated to squalene, which can self-organize as nanoparticles in water. The nanoparticles of siRNA TMPRSS2-ERG-squalene injected intravenously in SCID mice reduced growth of VCaP xenografted tumours, inhibited oncoprotein expression and partially restored differentiation (decrease in Ki67). In conclusion, this study offers a new prospect of treatment for prostate cancer based on siRNA-squalene nanoparticles targeting TMPRSS2-ERG junction oncogene.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic/chemistry
- Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic/metabolism
- Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic/pharmacology
- Caspase 3/genetics
- Caspase 3/metabolism
- Cell Differentiation/drug effects
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Drug Carriers
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
- Genetic Therapy/methods
- Humans
- Male
- Mice
- Mice, SCID
- Nanoparticles/chemistry
- Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/antagonists & inhibitors
- Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/genetics
- Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/metabolism
- Prostatic Neoplasms/genetics
- Prostatic Neoplasms/metabolism
- Prostatic Neoplasms/pathology
- Prostatic Neoplasms/therapy
- RNA, Messenger/antagonists & inhibitors
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- RNA, Small Interfering/genetics
- RNA, Small Interfering/metabolism
- Receptors, Adrenergic, alpha-2/genetics
- Receptors, Adrenergic, alpha-2/metabolism
- Signal Transduction
- Squalene/chemistry
- Squalene/metabolism
- Squalene/pharmacology
- Treatment Outcome
- Tumor Burden
- Xenograft Model Antitumor Assays
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Urbinati
- Université Paris-Sud 11, Laboratoire de Vectorologie et Thérapeutiques Anticancéreuses, UMR 8203, Villejuif, France-94805
- CNRS, Villejuif, Laboratoire de Vectorologie et Thérapeutiques Anticancéreuses, UMR 8203, Villejuif, France-94805
- Gustave Roussy, Laboratoire de Vectorologie et Thérapeutiques Anticancéreuses, UMR 8203, Villejuif, France-94805
| | - Hafiz Muhammad Ali
- Université Paris-Sud 11, Laboratoire de Vectorologie et Thérapeutiques Anticancéreuses, UMR 8203, Villejuif, France-94805
- CNRS, Villejuif, Laboratoire de Vectorologie et Thérapeutiques Anticancéreuses, UMR 8203, Villejuif, France-94805
- Gustave Roussy, Laboratoire de Vectorologie et Thérapeutiques Anticancéreuses, UMR 8203, Villejuif, France-94805
| | - Quentin Rousseau
- Université Paris-Sud 11, Laboratoire de Vectorologie et Thérapeutiques Anticancéreuses, UMR 8203, Villejuif, France-94805
- CNRS, Villejuif, Laboratoire de Vectorologie et Thérapeutiques Anticancéreuses, UMR 8203, Villejuif, France-94805
- Gustave Roussy, Laboratoire de Vectorologie et Thérapeutiques Anticancéreuses, UMR 8203, Villejuif, France-94805
- Laboratory of Experimental Cancer Research, Ghent University Hospital Building P7, De Pintelaan 185, B-9000 Gent, Belgium
| | - Hubert Chapuis
- Institut Galien, UMR CNRS 8612, Université Paris-Sud 11, Faculté de pharmacie, 5 rue J. B. Clément, 92296 Châtenay-Malabry, France
| | - Didier Desmaële
- Institut Galien, UMR CNRS 8612, Université Paris-Sud 11, Faculté de pharmacie, 5 rue J. B. Clément, 92296 Châtenay-Malabry, France
| | - Patrick Couvreur
- Institut Galien, UMR CNRS 8612, Université Paris-Sud 11, Faculté de pharmacie, 5 rue J. B. Clément, 92296 Châtenay-Malabry, France
| | - Liliane Massaad-Massade
- Université Paris-Sud 11, Laboratoire de Vectorologie et Thérapeutiques Anticancéreuses, UMR 8203, Villejuif, France-94805
- CNRS, Villejuif, Laboratoire de Vectorologie et Thérapeutiques Anticancéreuses, UMR 8203, Villejuif, France-94805
- Gustave Roussy, Laboratoire de Vectorologie et Thérapeutiques Anticancéreuses, UMR 8203, Villejuif, France-94805
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Kim SH, Kim SH, Joung JY, Lee GK, Hong EK, Kang KM, Yu A, Nam BH, Chung J, Seo HK, Park WS, Lee KH. Overexpression of ERG and Wild-Type PTEN Are Associated with Favorable Clinical Prognosis and Low Biochemical Recurrence in Prostate Cancer. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0122498. [PMID: 25897494 PMCID: PMC4405492 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0122498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2014] [Accepted: 02/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of two commonly altered genes ERG and PTEN in prostate cancer (PC) and evaluate their prognostic significance. Despite conflicting published results, TMPRSS2-ERG gene fusion and PTEN loss are generally considered unfavorable markers for PC progression. MATERIALS AND METHODS Of the 762 prostatic adenocarcinoma specimens obtained from radical prostatectomy, 613 without neoadjuvant hormone therapy were included in tissue microarrays for quantitatively assessment of ERG and PTEN expression via immunohistochemistry. Statistical analysis of the association between such expression and clinicopathological parameters, including clinical prognosis, was performed with a p-value of <0.05 considered significant. RESULTS During a median follow-up period of 44.0 months, 132 (21.5%) patients developed biochemical recurrence (BCR). ERG overexpression and PTEN loss were observed in 145 (23.7%) and 253 (41.3%) cases, respectively. BCR-free survival was significantly better in patients with ERG overexpression (p=0.005), but unfavorable among those with PTEN loss (p=0.142). Sub-group analysis revealed that patients with PTEN loss and negative ERG expression had the worst BCR-free survival outcome (p=0.021). Furthermore, multivariate analysis identified prostate-specific antigen level (≥10 ng/mL), Gleason score (>6), pathologic T stage (≥T3), positive surgical margin, and extraprostatic capsule extension as significant risk factors for BCR (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS Our results indicated that ERG overexpression was associated with favorable BCR-free survival after radical prostatectomy for PC, whereas PTEN loss was with unfavorable outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sung Han Kim
- Department of Urology, Center for Prostate Cancer, Research Institute and Hospital of National Cancer Center, Goyang, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Soo Hee Kim
- Department of Pathology, Yonsei University Severance Hospital, Seoul
| | - Jae Young Joung
- Department of Urology, Center for Prostate Cancer, Research Institute and Hospital of National Cancer Center, Goyang, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Geon Kook Lee
- Department of Pathology, Center for Prostate cancer, Research Institute and Hospital of National Cancer Center, Goyang, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Eun Kyung Hong
- Department of Pathology, Center for Prostate cancer, Research Institute and Hospital of National Cancer Center, Goyang, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Kyung Min Kang
- Biometric Research Branch, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Ami Yu
- Biometric Research Branch, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Byung Ho Nam
- Department of Cancer Control and Policy, Graduate School of Cancer Science and Policy, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Jinsoo Chung
- Department of Urology, Center for Prostate Cancer, Research Institute and Hospital of National Cancer Center, Goyang, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Ho Kyung Seo
- Department of Urology, Center for Prostate Cancer, Research Institute and Hospital of National Cancer Center, Goyang, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Weon Seo Park
- Department of Urology, Center for Prostate Cancer, Research Institute and Hospital of National Cancer Center, Goyang, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
- Department of Pathology, Center for Prostate cancer, Research Institute and Hospital of National Cancer Center, Goyang, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
- * E-mail: (KHL); (WSP)
| | - Kang Hyun Lee
- Department of Urology, Center for Prostate Cancer, Research Institute and Hospital of National Cancer Center, Goyang, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
- * E-mail: (KHL); (WSP)
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Liu B, Miyake H, Nishikawa M, Tei H, Fujisawa M. Expression Profile of Autophagy-related Markers in Localized Prostate Cancer: Correlation With Biochemical Recurrence After Radical Prostatectomy. Urology 2015; 85:1424-30. [PMID: 25881865 DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2015.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2014] [Revised: 02/01/2015] [Accepted: 03/06/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the expression of multiple molecular markers involved in autophagy, a cellular degradation pathway for the clearance of damaged or superfluous proteins and organelles, in localized prostate cancer (PC) to clarify the prognostic significance of these markers in patients undergoing radical prostatectomy (RP). METHODS Expression levels of 5 autophagy markers, including autophagy-related gene 5, autophagy-related gene 9, Beclin1, microtubule-associated protein light chain 3, and UNC-51-like kinase 1 (ULK1), in RP specimens from 160 consecutive patients with clinically localized PC were measured by immunohistochemical staining. RESULTS Of these 5 markers, ULK1 expression was significantly correlated with the incidence of biochemical recurrence (BR). On univariate analysis, ULK1 expression, serum prostate-specific antigen level, pathologic stage, Gleason score, seminal vesicle invasion, and surgical margin status were identified as significant predictors of BR. All these significant factors except for seminal vesicle invasion were independently associated with BR on multivariate analysis. Furthermore, significant differences in BR-free survival according to the positive numbers of these 5 independent risk factors were noted, that is, BR occurred in 2 of 33 patients negative for risk factors (6.1%), 20 of 76 patients positive for 1 or 2 risk factors (26.3%), and 38 of 51 patients positive for ≥3 risk factors (74.5%). CONCLUSION Collectively, these findings suggest that measurement of expression levels of potential autophagy markers, particularly ULK1, in RP specimens, in addition to conventional parameters, may contribute to the accurate prediction of BR after RP for localized PC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bing Liu
- Division of Urology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Hideaki Miyake
- Division of Urology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan.
| | - Masatomo Nishikawa
- Division of Urology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Hiromoto Tei
- Division of Urology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Masato Fujisawa
- Division of Urology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Taris M, Irani J, Blanchet P, Multigner L, Cathelineau X, Fromont G. ERG expression in prostate cancer: the prognostic paradox. Prostate 2014; 74:1481-7. [PMID: 25175352 DOI: 10.1002/pros.22863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2014] [Accepted: 06/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND TMPRSS2/ERG fusion resulting in ERG overexpression occurs in 30 to 50% of prostate cancer (PCa) in Caucasian patients, but its prognostic relevance remains controversial. In the present study, we investigated ERG expression in all stages of PCa progression, and evaluated the prognostic impact of ERG status in clinically localized PCa (CLC) and in castration resistant disease (CRPC). METHODS ERG and AR expressions were evaluated by immunohistochemistry on tissue microarrays containing samples of high grade PIN (n = 57), CLC surgically treated (n = 299, including 185 Caucasians and 114 African-Caribbeans), metastases (n = 17), and CRPC (n = 41). RESULTS In Caucasians, ERG expression significantly increased from high grade PIN (17.5%) to pT2 (27%) and pT3 CLC (43%), then to metastases (53%). In CLC, stainings for ERG and AR were correlated, and ERG expression was less frequent in African-Caribbeans compared to Caucasians (11.5% vs. 33%). In Caucasians CLC, ERG was associated with longer recurrence free survival, after adjusting for classical prognostic markers. In CRPC, ERG was expressed in 29% of cases, and was associated with a longer overall survival. CONCLUSIONS Our results confirm that ERG expression is less frequent in PCa from patients of African descent. Although ERG expression increases during PCa natural history, positive ERG status is associated with better outcome in both CLC and CRPC. This paradox could be explained in part by the fact that ERG expression is AR dependant, then ERG positive cancers are likely to progress in a rich androgen environment, with a better response to androgen suppression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Taris
- Department of Pathology, CHU-Universite de Poitiers, Poitiers, France
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Rosenbaum J, Drew S, Huang W. Significantly higher expression levels of androgen receptor are associated with erythroblastosis virus E26 oncogene related gene positive prostate cancer. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CLINICAL AND EXPERIMENTAL UROLOGY 2014; 2:249-257. [PMID: 25374927 PMCID: PMC4219307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2014] [Accepted: 09/25/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Erythroblastosis virus E26 related gene (ERG) overexpression is correlated with the TMPRSS2-ERG fusion gene, a rearrangement known to be present in about 50% of cases of prostate cancer. Androgen receptor (AR) is a known regulator of the TMPRSS2 gene. Despite knowledge of this relationship, limited data is available on the specific relationship of AR expression to TMPRSS2-ERG fusion (ERG) status in prostate cancer (PCa). We used multiplexed immunohistochemistry, multispectral imaging technology and tissue microarray (TMA) to elucidate this relationship. Two prostate tissue microarrays were created from two cohorts of hormonal naïve patients' prostatectomy specimens: progression TMA (pTMA, from 95 PCa patients) and outcome TMA (oTMA, from 183 PCa patients with at least 5-year follow-up information). Each of the two TMAs were triple-stained with ERG, AR and E-cadherin antibodies and visualized with a different chromogen. We found marked difference in AR expression levels between ERG positive (ERG(+)) and ERG negative (ERG(-)) prostate cancer. The difference was significant in localized (pT2) prostate cancer. We also found that AR expression levels were significantly higher in PCa tissue compared to benign prostate tissue, with the highest expression levels in ERG(+) metastatic cancer. Neither AR nor ERG expression was associated with clinical outcome. Our findings confirm that TMPRSS2-ERG fusion is AR-dependent and is associated with increased AR expression. Our data suggest that the AR pathway may play an important role in the development of ERG(+) PCa and ERG status may be useful in stratifying PCa patients for hormonal therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jason Rosenbaum
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison Madison, WI 53705
| | - Sally Drew
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison Madison, WI 53705
| | - Wei Huang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison Madison, WI 53705
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Falzarano SM, Magi-Galluzzi C. ERG protein expression as a biomarker of prostate cancer. Biomark Med 2014; 7:851-65. [PMID: 24266818 DOI: 10.2217/bmm.13.105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
TMPRSS2-ERG is a recurrent rearrangement specific for prostate cancer, leading to the overexpression of a truncated ERG protein product that is amenable to immunohistochemical detection. Two monoclonal anti-ERG antibodies have currently been validated, with comparable sensitivity and specificity for detecting ERG rearrangement. ERG immunostaining has been applied in different settings to elucidate the role of ERG rearrangement and overexpression in prostate cancer tumorigenesis and progression, as well as to investigate potential diagnostic and prognostic applications. In this article we review the literature on the topic and suggest potential future applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Moscovita Falzarano
- R.T. Pathology & Laboratory Medicine Institute, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue, L25, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Xu B, Chevarie-Davis M, Chevalier S, Scarlata E, Zeizafoun N, Dragomir A, Tanguay S, Kassouf W, Aprikian A, Brimo F. The prognostic role of ERG immunopositivity in prostatic acinar adenocarcinoma: a study including 454 cases and review of the literature. Hum Pathol 2014; 45:488-97. [DOI: 10.1016/j.humpath.2013.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2013] [Revised: 10/04/2013] [Accepted: 10/10/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
|
22
|
|
23
|
Wu L, Zhao JC, Kim J, Jin HJ, Wang CY, Yu J. ERG is a critical regulator of Wnt/LEF1 signaling in prostate cancer. Cancer Res 2013; 73:6068-79. [PMID: 23913826 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-13-0882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Chromosomal translocations juxtaposing the androgen-responsive TMPRSS2 promoter with the ETS-family transcription factor ERG result in aberrant ERG upregulation in approximately 50% of prostate cancers. Studies to date have shown important roles of ERG in inducing oncogenic properties of prostate cancer. Its molecular mechanisms of action, however, are yet to be fully understood. Here, we report that ERG activates Wnt/LEF1 signaling cascade through multiple mechanisms. ERG bound to the promoters of various Wnt genes to directly increase ligand expression. Consequently, ERG overexpression increased active β-catenin level in the cells and enhanced TCF/LEF1 luciferase reporter activity, which could be partially blocked by WNT-3A inhibitor IWP-2. Most importantly, our data defined LEF1 as a direct target of ERG and that LEF1 inhibition fully abolished ERG-induced Wnt signaling and target gene expression. Furthermore, functional assays showed that Wnt/LEF1 activation phenocopied that of ERG in inducing cell growth, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, and cell invasion, whereas blockade of Wnt signaling attenuated these effects. Concordantly, LEF1 expression is significantly upregulated in ERG-high human prostate cancers. Overall, this study provides an important mechanism of activation of Wnt signaling in prostate cancer and nominates LEF1 as a critical mediator of ERG-induced tumorigenesis. Wnt/LEF1 pathway might provide novel targets for therapeutic management of patients with fusion-positive prostate cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Longtao Wu
- Authors' Affiliations: Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois; and Laboratory of Molecular Signaling, Division of Oral Biology and Medicine, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Szász AM, Majoros A, Rosen P, Srivastava S, Dobi A, Szendrői A, Kulka J, Nyirády P. Prognostic potential of ERG (ETS-related gene) expression in prostatic adenocarcinoma. Int Urol Nephrol 2013; 45:727-33. [PMID: 23686669 DOI: 10.1007/s11255-013-0406-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2012] [Accepted: 02/15/2013] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Following patients after prostatectomy can be expensive and stressful, therefore, a novel and reliable approach to improve stratification is needed both at diagnosis of PCa and following its treatment. We evaluate the association of both ERG and claudin-4, claudin-5, and beta-catenin expression in tumor tissues of patients with organ-confined and advanced prostatic adenocarcinomas. METHODS A total of 30 patients were included in the study. Nine men who underwent radical prostatectomy for organ-confined (pT2N0M0) cancer (OCC), 10 patients with clinically advanced cancer (CAC), and 11 controls with benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH). Using immunohistochemistry applied to tissue microarrays, each group was evaluated for beta-catenin, claudin-4, claudin-5, and ERG expression. RESULTS The expression of ERG was higher in the CAC group when compared to OCC and BPH (p = 0.7684, p = 0.0224, respectively). Among these patients, 5 from the CAC (45 %) and 5 from the OCC group (56 %) stained positively for ERG (p = 1.0). The mean staining score for those with ERG+ advanced cancer was greater than that for the ERG+ organ-confined cancer (p = 0.0209). ERG staining correlated with Gleason score (Pearson's correlation: 0.498, p = 0.0051), but not with serum PSA level (Pearson's correlation: 0.404, p = 0.1202). When analyzing outcome data, high ERG expressing tumors have shown a significantly worse overall survival (p = 0.0084). CONCLUSIONS Our results of presence or absence of claudin-4 and claudin-5 and ERG staining intensities suggest their potential as prognostic factors for prostate cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Marcell Szász
- 2nd Department of Pathology, Semmelweis University, 93 Üllői út, 1091, Budapest, Hungary.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|