1
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Piya S, Yang Y, Bhattacharya S, Sharma P, Ma H, Mu H, He H, Ruvolo V, Baran N, Davis RE, Jain AK, Konopleava M, Kantarjian H, Andreeff M, You MJ, Borthakur G. Targeting the NOTCH1-MYC-CD44 axis in leukemia-initiating cells in T-ALL. Leukemia 2022; 36:1261-1273. [PMID: 35173274 PMCID: PMC9061299 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-022-01516-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The NOTCH1-MYC-CD44 axis integrates cell-intrinsic and extrinsic signaling to ensure the persistence of leukemia-initiating cells (LICs) in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) but a common pathway to target this circuit is poorly defined. Bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4) is implicated to have a role in the transcriptional regulation of oncogenes MYC and targets downstream of NOTCH1, and here we demonstrate its role in transcriptional regulation of CD44. Hence, targeting BRD4 will dismantle the NOTCH1-MYC-CD44 axis. As a proof of concept, degrading BRD4 with proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) ARV-825, prolonged the survival of mice in Notch1 mutated patient-derived xenograft (PDX) and genetic models (ΔPTEN) of T-ALL. Single-cell proteomics analysis from the PDX model, demonstrated quantitative reduction of LICs (CD34+ CD7+ CD19−) and downregulation of the NOTCH1-MYC-CD44 axis, along with cell cycle, apoptosis and PI3K/Akt pathways. Moreover, secondary transplantation from PDX and ΔPTEN models of T-ALL, confirmed delayed leukemia development and extended survival of mice engrafted with T-ALL from ARV-825 treated mice, providing functional confirmation of depletion of LICs. Hence, BRD4 degradation is a promising LIC-targeting therapy for T-ALL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sujan Piya
- Department of Leukemia, Unit 428, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Yaling Yang
- Department of Hematopathology, Unit 72, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Seemana Bhattacharya
- Department of Leukemia, Unit 428, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Priyanka Sharma
- Department of Leukemia, Unit 428, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Huaxian Ma
- Department of Leukemia, Unit 428, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Hong Mu
- Department of Leukemia, Unit 428, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Hua He
- Department of Hematopathology, Unit 72, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Vivian Ruvolo
- Department of Leukemia, Unit 428, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Natalia Baran
- Department of Leukemia, Unit 428, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - R Eric Davis
- Department of Lymphoma/Myeloma, Unit 903, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Abhinav K Jain
- Department of Epigenetics & Molecular Carcinogenesis, Center for Cancer Epigenetics, Unit 1000, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Marina Konopleava
- Department of Leukemia, Unit 428, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Hagop Kantarjian
- Department of Leukemia, Unit 428, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Michael Andreeff
- Department of Leukemia, Unit 428, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - M James You
- Department of Hematopathology, Unit 72, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Gautam Borthakur
- Department of Leukemia, Unit 428, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
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Silic-Benussi M, Sharova E, Ciccarese F, Cavallari I, Raimondi V, Urso L, Corradin A, Kotler H, Scattolin G, Buldini B, Francescato S, Basso G, Minuzzo SA, Indraccolo S, D'Agostino DM, Ciminale V. mTOR inhibition downregulates glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and induces ROS-dependent death in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia cells. Redox Biol 2022; 51:102268. [PMID: 35248829 PMCID: PMC8899410 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2022.102268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Vittoria Raimondi
- Department of Surgery, Oncology, and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Loredana Urso
- Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV - IRCCS, Padova, Italy; Department of Surgery, Oncology, and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Alberto Corradin
- Istituto Tecnico Industriale Statale "Alessandro Rossi", Vicenza, Italy
| | - Harel Kotler
- Department of Surgery, Oncology, and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Gloria Scattolin
- Department of Surgery, Oncology, and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Barbara Buldini
- Pediatric Hemato Oncology, Maternal and Child Health Department, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Samuela Francescato
- Pediatric Hemato Oncology, Maternal and Child Health Department, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Basso
- Pediatric Hemato Oncology, Maternal and Child Health Department, University of Padova, Padova, Italy; Italian Institute for Genomic Medicine, Turin, Italy
| | - Sonia A Minuzzo
- Department of Surgery, Oncology, and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Stefano Indraccolo
- Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV - IRCCS, Padova, Italy; Department of Surgery, Oncology, and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Donna M D'Agostino
- Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV - IRCCS, Padova, Italy; Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Ciminale
- Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV - IRCCS, Padova, Italy; Department of Surgery, Oncology, and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.
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El-Khazragy N, Abdel Aziz MA, Hesham M, Matbouly S, Mostafa SA, Bakkar A, Abouelnile M, Noufal Y, Mahran NA, Abd Elkhalek MA, Abdelmaksoud MF. Upregulation of leukemia-induced non-coding activator RNA (LUNAR1) predicts poor outcome in pediatric T-acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Immunobiology 2021; 226:152149. [PMID: 34735923 DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2021.152149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
T-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (T-ALL) accounts for around 10-15% of all lymphoblastic leukemia in children. Previous studies have proven that dysregulation of Leukemia-induced non-coding activator RNA-1 (LUNAR1) expression promotes T-ALL cell growth by enhancing the NOTCH1/IGF-1R signaling pathway. We aimed to investigate the prognostic value of LUNAR1 in pediatric T-ALL, in addition, to find out its association with NOTCH1 and IGF-1R. The LUNAR1, NOTCH1, and IGF-IR gene expression were measured in peripheral blood (PB) samples of l85 children with T-ALL and forty non-leukemic samples as a control group. Cox regression analysis revealed that overexpression of LUNAR1, NOTCH1, and IGF-IR was significantly correlated with poor prognosis, short overall survival, and progression-free survival. We concluded that LUNAR1 could serve as an independent prognostic biomarker for T-ALL in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nashwa El-Khazragy
- Department of Clinical Pathology-Hematology and Ain Shams Medical Research Institute (MASRI), Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt.
| | | | - Manar Hesham
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Safa Matbouly
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Sally Abdallah Mostafa
- Medical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Ashraf Bakkar
- Faculty of Biotechnology, October University for Modern Sciences and Arts, Giza, Egypt
| | - Mariam Abouelnile
- Faculty of Biotechnology, October University for Modern Sciences and Arts, Giza, Egypt
| | - Yassmin Noufal
- Faculty of Biotechnology, October University for Modern Sciences and Arts, Giza, Egypt
| | - Nievin Ahmed Mahran
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Sinai University, Kanatra, Egypt
| | - Marwa Ali Abd Elkhalek
- Department of Medical Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
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4
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Shenouda S, Kulkarni K, Abuetabh Y, Sergi C. Cancer Stem Cells and their Management in Cancer Therapy. Recent Pat Anticancer Drug Discov 2021; 15:212-227. [PMID: 32660407 DOI: 10.2174/1574892815666200713145931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the last decade, the proposed Cancer Stem Cell (CSC) hypothesis has steadily changed the way cancer treatment is approached. CSCs may be the source of the heterogeneous non-tumorigenic cell population included in a neoplasm. Intratumor and intertumoral heterogeneity is a well-known phenomenon that massively entangles the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. The literature seems to suggest that heterogeneity develops progressively within tumor-initiating stem cells. CSCs harbor genetic and/or epigenetic alterations that allow them to differentiate into multiple tumor cell types sequentially. OBJECTIVE The CSC hypothesis, cellular therapy, and the most recent patents on CSCs were reviewed. METHODS PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar were screened for this information. Also, an analysis of the most recent data targeting CSCs in pediatric cancer developed at two Canadian institutions is provided. The genes involved with the activation of CSCs and the drugs used to antagonize them are also highlighted. RESULTS It is underlined that (1) CSCs possess stem cell-like properties, including the ability for self-renewal; (2) CSCs can start carcinogenesis and are responsible for tumor recurrence after treatment; (3) Although some limitations have been raised, which may oppose the CSC hypothesis, cancer progression and metastasis have been recognized to be caused by CSCs. CONCLUSION The significant roles of cell therapy may include an auto-transplant with high-dose treatment, an improvement of the immune function, creation of chimeric antigen receptor T cells, and the recruitment of NK cell-based immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzan Shenouda
- Department of Lab. Medicine and Pathology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Ketan Kulkarni
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Yasser Abuetabh
- Department of Lab. Medicine and Pathology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Consolato Sergi
- Department of Lab. Medicine and Pathology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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5
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Fathi E, Farahzadi R, Montazersaheb S, Bagheri Y. Epigenetic Modifications in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: From Cellular Mechanisms to Therapeutics. Curr Gene Ther 2021; 21:60-71. [PMID: 33183201 DOI: 10.2174/1566523220999201111194554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epigenetic modification pattern is considered as a characteristic feature in blood malignancies. Modifications in the DNA methylation modulators are recurrent in lymphoma and leukemia, so that the distinct methylation pattern defines different types of leukemia. Generally, the role of epigenetics is less understood, and most investigations are focused on genetic abnormalities and cytogenic studies to develop novel treatments for patients with hematologic disorders. Recently, understanding the underlying mechanism of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), especially epigenetic alterations as a driving force in the development of ALL opens a new era of investigation for developing promising strategy, beyond available conventional therapy. OBJECTIVE This review will focus on a better understanding of the epigenetic mechanisms in cancer development and progression, with an emphasis on epigenetic alterations in ALL including, DNA methylation, histone modification, and microRNA alterations. Other topics that will be discussed include the use of epigenetic alterations as a promising therapeutic target in order to develop novel, well-suited approaches against ALL. CONCLUSION According to the literature review, leukemogenesis of ALL is extensively influenced by epigenetic modifications, particularly DNA hyper-methylation, histone modification, and miRNA alteration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ezzatollah Fathi
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Raheleh Farahzadi
- Hematology and Oncology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Soheila Montazersaheb
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Yasin Bagheri
- Young Researchers and Elite Club, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran
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6
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Kong D, Fan S, Sun L, Chen X, Zhao Y, Zhao L, Guo Z, Li Y. Growth inhibition and suppression of the mTOR and Wnt/β-catenin pathways in T-acute lymphoblastic leukemia by rapamycin and MYCN depletion. Hematol Oncol 2020; 39:222-230. [PMID: 33300153 DOI: 10.1002/hon.2831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Revised: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is an aggressive malignancy. Understanding of the molecular pathogenesis may lead to novel therapeutic targets. Rapamycin, the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor, showed inhibitory effects on T-ALL cells. In this study, we showed that rapamycin significantly reduced MYCN mRNA and protein in a concentration-dependent manner in T-ALL cells. Selective knockdown of MYCN by small interfering RNA had similar effects to rapamycin to inhibit T-ALL proliferation and colony formation and to induce G1-phase cell-cycle arrest and apoptosis. The inhibitory effects of rapamycin and MYCN depletion were also found in a Molt-4 xenograft model. Rapamycin and MYCN inhibition suppressed both Wnt/β-catenin and mTOR signaling pathways. The results suggest the effects of rapamycin on adult T-ALL is likely mediated by downregulation of MYCN. The findings suggest MYCN a potential target for the treatment of adult T-ALL. Additionally, dual targeting of mTOR and Wnt/β-catenin pathways may represent a novel strategy in the treatment of adult T-ALL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Desheng Kong
- Department of Hematology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Shengjin Fan
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Lili Sun
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Xi Chen
- Department of Hematology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yanqiu Zhao
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Linlin Zhao
- Department of Blood Transfusion, The First Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Zhibo Guo
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yinghua Li
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
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7
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Wei M, Haney MG, Rivas DR, Blackburn JS. Protein tyrosine phosphatase 4A3 (PTP4A3/PRL-3) drives migration and progression of T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia in vitro and in vivo. Oncogenesis 2020; 9:6. [PMID: 32001668 PMCID: PMC6992623 DOI: 10.1038/s41389-020-0192-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2019] [Revised: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is an aggressive blood cancer. There are no immunotherapies and few molecularly targeted therapeutics available for treatment of this malignancy. The identification and characterization of genes and pathways that drive T-ALL progression are critical for the development of new therapies for T-ALL. Here, we determined that the protein tyrosine phosphatase 4A3 (PTP4A3 or PRL-3) plays a critical role in T-ALL initiation and progression by promoting leukemia cell migration. PRL-3 is highly expressed in patient T-ALL samples at both the mRNA and protein levels compared to normal lymphocytes. Knock-down of PRL-3 expression using short-hairpin RNA (shRNA) in human T-ALL cell lines significantly impeded T-ALL cell migration capacity in vitro and reduced their ability to engraft and proliferate in vivo in xenograft mouse models. Additionally, PRL-3 overexpression in a Myc-induced zebrafish T-ALL model significantly accelerated disease onset and shortened the time needed for cells to enter blood circulation. Reverse-phase protein array (RPPA) and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) revealed that the SRC signaling pathway is affected by PRL-3. Immunoblot analyses validated that manipulation of PRL-3 expression in T-ALL cells affected the SRC signaling pathway, which is directly involved in cell migration, although Src was not a direct substrate of PRL-3. More importantly, T-ALL cell growth and migration were inhibited by small molecule inhibition of PRL-3, suggesting that PRL-3 has potential as a therapeutic target in T-ALL. Taken together, our study identifies PRL-3 as an oncogenic driver in T-ALL both in vitro and in vivo and provides a strong rationale for targeted therapies that interfere with PRL-3 function.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Wei
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 4053, USA
| | - M G Haney
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 4053, USA
- Markey Cancer Center, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - D R Rivas
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 4053, USA
| | - J S Blackburn
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 4053, USA.
- Markey Cancer Center, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA.
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8
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Simioni C, Bergamini F, Ferioli M, Rimondi E, Caruso L, Neri LM. New biomarkers and therapeutic strategies in acute lymphoblastic leukemias: Recent advances. Hematol Oncol 2019; 38:22-33. [PMID: 31487068 DOI: 10.1002/hon.2678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Revised: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 09/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) represents a heterogeneous group of hematologic malignancies, and it is normally characterized by an aberrant proliferation of immature lymphoid cells. Moreover, dysregulation of multiple signaling pathways that normally regulate cellular transcription, growth, translation, and proliferation is frequently encountered in this malignancy. ALL is the most frequent tumor in childhood, and adult ALL patients still correlate with poor survival. This review focuses on modern therapies in ALL that move beyond standard chemotherapy, with a particular emphasis on immunotherapeutic approaches as new treatment strategies. Bi-specific T-cell Engagers (BiTE) antibodies, the chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells, or CRISPR-Cas9 (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats [CRISPR]-associated nuclease 9) represent other new innovative approaches for this disease. Target and tailored therapy could make the difference in previously untreatable cases, i.e., precision and personalized medicine. Clinical trials will help to select the most efficient novel therapies in ALL management and to integrate them with existing treatments to achieve durable cures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Simioni
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fabio Bergamini
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Martina Ferioli
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Erika Rimondi
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,LTTA-Electron Microscopy Center, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Caruso
- Department of Biomedical and Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Luca M Neri
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,LTTA-Electron Microscopy Center, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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9
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Evaluation of Insulin-mediated Regulation of AKT Signaling in Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. J Pediatr Hematol Oncol 2019; 41:96-104. [PMID: 30688831 DOI: 10.1097/mph.0000000000001425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Hyperglycemia increases the risk of early recurrence and high mortality in some adult blood cancers. In response to increased glucose levels, insulin is secreted, and several studies have shown that insulin-induced AKT signaling can regulate tumor cell proliferation and apoptosis. The AKT pathway is aberrantly activated in adult acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), but the mechanisms underlying this activation and its impact in pediatric patients with ALL are unclear. MATERIALS AND METHODS We evaluated the insulin-induced chemoresistance and AKT pathway activation by measuring cell proliferation, apoptosis, and other parameters in ALL cell lines (Jurkat and Reh cells), as well as in primary pediatric leukemic cell samples, after culture with insulin, the chemotherapeutic drugs daunorubicin (DNR), vincristine (VCR), and L-asparaginase (L-Asp), or anti-insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R) monoclonal antibody. RESULTS DNR, VCR, and L-Asp-induced toxicity in Jurkat and Reh cells was reduced in the presence of insulin. DNR promoted cell proliferation, whereas DNR, VCR, and L-Asp all reduced apoptosis in both cell lines cotreated with insulin compared with that in cell lines treated with chemotherapeutics alone (P<0.05). Furthermore, addition of an anti-IGF-1R monoclonal antibody promoted apoptosis, downregulated IGF-1R expression, and decreased the phosphorylation of AKT, P70S6K, and mTOR intracellular signaling pathway proteins in both cell lines, as well as in primary cultures (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that insulin-induced chemoresistance and activation of the AKT signaling pathway in pediatric ALL cells.
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10
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Targeting mTOR in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Cells 2019; 8:cells8020190. [PMID: 30795552 PMCID: PMC6406494 DOI: 10.3390/cells8020190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2019] [Revised: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) is an aggressive hematologic disorder and constitutes approximately 25% of cancer diagnoses among children and teenagers. Pediatric patients have a favourable prognosis, with 5-years overall survival rates near 90%, while adult ALL still correlates with poorer survival. However, during the past few decades, the therapeutic outcome of adult ALL was significantly ameliorated, mainly due to intensive pediatric-based protocols of chemotherapy. Mammalian (or mechanistic) target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a conserved serine/threonine kinase belonging to the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)-related kinase family (PIKK) and resides in two distinct signalling complexes named mTORC1, involved in mRNA translation and protein synthesis and mTORC2 that controls cell survival and migration. Moreover, both complexes are remarkably involved in metabolism regulation. Growing evidence reports that mTOR dysregulation is related to metastatic potential, cell proliferation and angiogenesis and given that PI3K/Akt/mTOR network activation is often associated with poor prognosis and chemoresistance in ALL, there is a constant need to discover novel inhibitors for ALL treatment. Here, the current knowledge of mTOR signalling and the development of anti-mTOR compounds are documented, reporting the most relevant results from both preclinical and clinical studies in ALL that have contributed significantly into their efficacy or failure.
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11
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Jia Y, Qi Y, Wang Y, Ma X, Xu Y, Wang J, Zhang X, Gao M, Cong B, Han S. Overexpression of CD59 inhibits apoptosis of T-acute lymphoblastic leukemia via AKT/Notch1 signaling pathway. Cancer Cell Int 2019; 19:9. [PMID: 30636930 PMCID: PMC6325688 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-018-0714-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND T-acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) was a hematological malignancy characterized by the accumulation of immature T cells in bone marrow and peripheral blood. In this study, we tried to explore the physiological role of CD59 in T-ALL. METHODS In this study, we collected the bone marrow samples from 17 T-ALL patients and 38 healthy participants to find differences in CD59 expression patterns. Then, CD59 was over-expressed in T-ALL cell line Jurkat, and its biological functions were detected. In addition, in order to understand the active site of CD59, the Trp40 was mutated. Further, we constructed a mouse model by transplanting Jurkat cells into the nude mice to verify the function of CD59 in vitro. At last, mechanism studies were performed by western blot. RESULTS We found that the proportion of T lymphocytes expressing CD59 in bone marrow of T-ALL patients was significantly higher than that of healthy individuals. Then, we found that the overexpression of CD59 in Jurkat cells was beneficial to the cell survival by inhibiting apoptosis and promoting IL-2 secretion. In this process, Trp40 of CD59 was a key functional site. Further, the high expression of CD59 inhibited apoptosis of bone marrow and peripheral blood cells, and promoted IL-2 secretion in mouse model. At last, mechanism studies showed that the activation of AKT, STAT5 and Notch1 signaling pathways in Jurkat cells, may be involved in the regulation of apoptosis by CD59; and mutation in the Trp40 affect the interaction of CD59 with these signaling pathways. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, CD59 inhibited apoptosis of T-ALL by regulating AKT/Notch1 signaling pathway, providing a new perspective for the treatment of T-ALL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanfei Jia
- Medical Research and Laboratory Diagnostic Center, Jinan Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, 115 Jie Fang Road, Jinan, Shandong 250013 People’s Republic of China
| | - Yan Qi
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao, Shandong People’s Republic of China
| | - Yunshan Wang
- Medical Research and Laboratory Diagnostic Center, Jinan Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, 115 Jie Fang Road, Jinan, Shandong 250013 People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaoli Ma
- Medical Research and Laboratory Diagnostic Center, Jinan Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, 115 Jie Fang Road, Jinan, Shandong 250013 People’s Republic of China
| | - Yihui Xu
- Medical Research and Laboratory Diagnostic Center, Jinan Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, 115 Jie Fang Road, Jinan, Shandong 250013 People’s Republic of China
| | - Jun Wang
- Medical Research and Laboratory Diagnostic Center, Jinan Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, 115 Jie Fang Road, Jinan, Shandong 250013 People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaoqian Zhang
- Medical Research and Laboratory Diagnostic Center, Jinan Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, 115 Jie Fang Road, Jinan, Shandong 250013 People’s Republic of China
| | - Meihua Gao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao, Shandong People’s Republic of China
| | - Beibei Cong
- Medical Research and Laboratory Diagnostic Center, Jinan Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, 115 Jie Fang Road, Jinan, Shandong 250013 People’s Republic of China
| | - Shuyi Han
- Medical Research and Laboratory Diagnostic Center, Jinan Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, 115 Jie Fang Road, Jinan, Shandong 250013 People’s Republic of China
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12
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Haider Z, Larsson P, Landfors M, Köhn L, Schmiegelow K, Flaegstad T, Kanerva J, Heyman M, Hultdin M, Degerman S. An integrated transcriptome analysis in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia links DNA methylation subgroups to dysregulated TAL1 and ANTP homeobox gene expression. Cancer Med 2018; 8:311-324. [PMID: 30575306 PMCID: PMC6346238 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.1917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2018] [Revised: 11/12/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Classification of pediatric T‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T‐ALL) patients into CIMP (CpG Island Methylator Phenotype) subgroups has the potential to improve current risk stratification. To investigate the biology behind these CIMP subgroups, diagnostic samples from Nordic pediatric T‐ALL patients were characterized by genome‐wide methylation arrays, followed by targeted exome sequencing, telomere length measurement, and RNA sequencing. The CIMP subgroups did not correlate significantly with variations in epigenetic regulators. However, the CIMP+ subgroup, associated with better prognosis, showed indicators of longer replicative history, including shorter telomere length (P = 0.015) and older epigenetic (P < 0.001) and mitotic age (P < 0.001). Moreover, the CIMP+ subgroup had significantly higher expression of ANTP homeobox oncogenes, namely TLX3, HOXA9, HOXA10, and NKX2‐1, and novel genes in T‐ALL biology including PLCB4, PLXND1, and MYO18B. The CIMP− subgroup, with worse prognosis, was associated with higher expression of TAL1 along with frequent STIL‐TAL1 fusions (2/40 in CIMP+ vs 11/24 in CIMP−), as well as stronger expression of BEX1. Altogether, our findings suggest different routes for leukemogenic transformation in the T‐ALL CIMP subgroups, indicated by different replicative histories and distinct methylomic and transcriptomic profiles. These novel findings can lead to new therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Haider
- Department of Medical Biosciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Pär Larsson
- Department of Medical Biosciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Mattias Landfors
- Department of Medical Biosciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Linda Köhn
- Department of Radiation Sciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Kjeld Schmiegelow
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Trond Flaegstad
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Tromsø and University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Jukka Kanerva
- Children's Hospital, Helsinki University Central Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Mats Heyman
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Magnus Hultdin
- Department of Medical Biosciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Sofie Degerman
- Department of Medical Biosciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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13
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Luo M, Zhang Q, Xia M, Hu F, Ma Z, Chen Z, Guo AY. Differential Co-expression and Regulatory Network Analysis Uncover the Relapse Factor and Mechanism of T Cell Acute Leukemia. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2018; 12:184-194. [PMID: 30195757 PMCID: PMC6023839 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2018.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2017] [Revised: 04/02/2018] [Accepted: 05/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The pediatric T cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) still remains a cancer with worst prognosis for high recurrence. Massive studies were conducted for the leukemia relapse based on diagnosis and relapse paired samples. However, the initially diagnostic samples may contain the relapse information and mechanism, which were rarely studied. In this study, we collected mRNA and microRNA (miRNA) data from initially diagnosed pediatric T-ALL samples with their relapse or remission status after treatment. Integrated differential co-expression and miRNA-transcription factor (TF)-gene regulatory network analyses were used to reveal the possible relapse mechanisms for pediatric T-ALL. We detected miR-1246/1248 and NOTCH2 served as key nodes in the relapse network, and they combined with TF WT1/SOX4/REL to form regulatory modules that influence the progress of T-ALL. A regulatory loop miR-429-MYCN-MFHAS1 was found potentially associated with the remission of T-ALL. Furthermore, we proved miR-1246/1248 combined with NOTCH2 could promote cell proliferation in the T-ALL cell line by experiments. Meanwhile, analysis based on the miRNA-drug relationships demonstrated that drugs 5-fluorouracil, ascorbate, and trastuzumab targeting miR-1246 could serve as potential supplements for the standard therapy. In conclusion, our findings revealed the potential molecular mechanisms of T-ALL relapse by the combination of co-expression and regulatory network, and they provide preliminary clues for precise treatment of T-ALL patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Luo
- Department of Bioinformatics and Systems Biology, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Qiong Zhang
- Department of Bioinformatics and Systems Biology, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Mengxuan Xia
- Department of Bioinformatics and Systems Biology, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Feifei Hu
- Department of Bioinformatics and Systems Biology, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Zhaowu Ma
- Laboratory of Neuronal Network and Brain Diseases Modulation, School of Medicine, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei 434023, China
| | - Zehua Chen
- Joint Laboratory for the Research of Pharmaceutics-Huazhong University of Science and Technology and Infinitus, Wuhan, China
| | - An-Yuan Guo
- Department of Bioinformatics and Systems Biology, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China.
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14
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Dual inhibition of PI3K/mTOR signaling in chemoresistant AML primary cells. Adv Biol Regul 2018; 68:2-9. [PMID: 29576448 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbior.2018.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2018] [Revised: 03/18/2018] [Accepted: 03/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
A main cause of treatment failure for AML patients is resistance to chemotherapy. Survival of AML cells may depend on mechanisms that elude conventional drugs action and/or on the presence of leukemia initiating cells at diagnosis, and their persistence after therapy. MDR1 gene is an ATP-dependent drug efflux pump known to be a risk factor for the emergence of resistance, when combined to unstable cytogenetic profile of AML patients. In the present study, we analyzed the sensitivity to conventional chemotherapeutic drugs of 26 samples of primary blasts collected from AML patients at diagnosis. Detection of cell viability and apoptosis allowed to identify two group of samples, one resistant and one sensitive to in vitro treatment. The cells were then analyzed for the presence and the activity of P-glycoprotein. A comparative analysis showed that resistant samples exhibited a high level of MDR1 mRNA as well as of P-glycoprotein content and activity. Moreover, they also displayed high PI3K signaling. Therefore, we checked whether the association with signaling inhibitors might resensitize resistant samples to chemo-drugs. The combination showed a very potent cytotoxic effect, possibly through down modulation of MDR1, which was maintained also when primary blasts were co-cultured with human stromal cells. Remarkably, dual PI3K/mTOR inactivation was cytotoxic also to leukemia initiating cells. All together, our findings indicate that signaling activation profiling associated to gene expression can be very useful to stratify patients and improve therapy.
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15
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Synergistic effects of selective inhibitors targeting the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway or NUP214-ABL1 fusion protein in human Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Oncotarget 2018; 7:79842-79853. [PMID: 27821800 PMCID: PMC5346755 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.13035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2016] [Accepted: 10/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Philadelphia chromosome-positive (Ph+) Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) accounts for 25–30% of adult ALL and its incidence increases with age in adults >40 years old. Irrespective of age, the ABL1 fusion genes are markers of poor prognosis and amplification of the NUP214-ABL1 oncogene can be detected mainly in patients with T-ALL. T cell malignancies harboring the ABL1 fusion genes are sensitive to many cytotoxic agents, but up to date complete remissions have not been achieved. The PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway is often activated in leukemias and plays a crucial role in leukemogenesis. We analyzed the effects of three BCR-ABL1 tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), alone and in combination with a panel of selective PI3K/Akt/mTOR inhibitors, on three NUP214-ABL1 positive T-ALL cell lines that also displayed PI3K/Akt/mTOR activation. Cells were sensitive to anti BCR-ABL1 TKIs Imatinib, Nilotinib and GZD824, that specifically targeted the ABL1 fusion protein, but not the PI3K/Akt/mTOR axis. Four drugs against the PI3K/Akt/mTOR cascade, GSK690693, NVP-BGT226, ZSTK474 and Torin-2, showed marked cytotoxic effects on T-leukemic cells, without affecting the NUP214-ABL1 kinase and related pathway. Dephosphorylation of pAkt and pS6 showed the cytotoxicity of these compounds. Either single or combined administration of drugs against the different targets displayed inhibition of cellular viability associated with a concentration-dependent induction of apoptosis, cell cycle arrest in G0/G1 phase and autophagy, having the combined treatments a significant synergistic cytotoxic effect. Co-targeting NUP214-ABL1 fusion gene and PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway could represent a new and effective pharmacological strategy to improve the outcome in NUP214-ABL1 positive T-ALL.
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16
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Pruitt MM, Marin W, Waarts MR, de Jong JLO. Isolation of the Side Population in Myc-induced T-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in Zebrafish. J Vis Exp 2017. [PMID: 28518092 DOI: 10.3791/55711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Heterogeneous cell populations, from either healthy or malignant tissues, may contain a population of cells characterized by a differential ability to efflux the DNA-binding dye Hoechst 33342. This "side population" of cells can be identified using flow cytometric methods after the Hoechst 33342 dye is excited by an ultraviolet (UV) laser. The side population of many cell types contains stem- or progenitor-like cells. However, not all cell types have an identifiable side population. Danio rerio, zebrafish, have a robust in vivo model of T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL), but whether these zebrafish T-ALLs have a side population is unknown. The method described here outlines how to isolate the side population cells in zebrafish T-ALL. To begin, the T-ALL in zebrafish is generated via the microinjection of tol2 plasmids into one-cell stage embryos. Once the tumors have grown to a stage at which they expand into more than half of the animal's body, the T-ALL cells can be harvested. The cells are then stained with Hoechst 33342 and examined by flow cytometry for side population cells. This method has broad applications in zebrafish T-ALL research. While there are no known cell surface markers in zebrafish that confirm whether these side population cells are cancer stem cell-like, in vivo functional transplantation assays are possible. Furthermore, single-cell transcriptomics could be applied to identify the genetic features of these side population cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret M Pruitt
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology-Oncology, The University of Chicago; Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute
| | - Wilfredo Marin
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology-Oncology, The University of Chicago
| | - Michael R Waarts
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology-Oncology, The University of Chicago
| | - Jill L O de Jong
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology-Oncology, The University of Chicago;
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17
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McCubrey JA, Rakus D, Gizak A, Steelman LS, Abrams SL, Lertpiriyapong K, Fitzgerald TL, Yang LV, Montalto G, Cervello M, Libra M, Nicoletti F, Scalisi A, Torino F, Fenga C, Neri LM, Marmiroli S, Cocco L, Martelli AM. Effects of mutations in Wnt/β-catenin, hedgehog, Notch and PI3K pathways on GSK-3 activity-Diverse effects on cell growth, metabolism and cancer. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2016; 1863:2942-2976. [PMID: 27612668 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2016.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2016] [Revised: 08/14/2016] [Accepted: 09/02/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3) is a serine/threonine kinase that participates in an array of critical cellular processes. GSK-3 was first characterized as an enzyme that phosphorylated and inactivated glycogen synthase. However, subsequent studies have revealed that this moon-lighting protein is involved in numerous signaling pathways that regulate not only metabolism but also have roles in: apoptosis, cell cycle progression, cell renewal, differentiation, embryogenesis, migration, regulation of gene transcription, stem cell biology and survival. In this review, we will discuss the roles that GSK-3 plays in various diseases as well as how this pivotal kinase interacts with multiple signaling pathways such as: PI3K/PTEN/Akt/mTOR, Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK, Wnt/beta-catenin, hedgehog, Notch and TP53. Mutations that occur in these and other pathways can alter the effects that natural GSK-3 activity has on regulating these signaling circuits that can lead to cancer as well as other diseases. The novel roles that microRNAs play in regulation of the effects of GSK-3 will also be evaluated. Targeting GSK-3 and these other pathways may improve therapy and overcome therapeutic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- James A McCubrey
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University Greenville, NC 27858, USA.
| | - Dariusz Rakus
- Department of Animal Molecular Physiology, Institute of Experimental Biology, Wroclaw University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Gizak
- Department of Animal Molecular Physiology, Institute of Experimental Biology, Wroclaw University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Linda S Steelman
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University Greenville, NC 27858, USA
| | - Steve L Abrams
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University Greenville, NC 27858, USA
| | - Kvin Lertpiriyapong
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, USA
| | - Timothy L Fitzgerald
- Department of Surgery, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, USA
| | - Li V Yang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hematology/Oncology Section, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, USA
| | - Giuseppe Montalto
- Biomedical Department of Internal Medicine and Specialties, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy; Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Istituto di Biomedicina e Immunologia Molecolare "Alberto Monroy", Palermo, Italy
| | - Melchiorre Cervello
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Istituto di Biomedicina e Immunologia Molecolare "Alberto Monroy", Palermo, Italy
| | - Massimo Libra
- Department of Bio-medical Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | | - Aurora Scalisi
- Unit of Oncologic Diseases, ASP-Catania, Catania 95100, Italy
| | - Francesco Torino
- Department of Systems Medicine, Chair of Medical Oncology, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Concettina Fenga
- Department of Biomedical, Odontoiatric, Morphological and Functional Images, Occupational Medicine Section - Policlinico "G. Martino" - University of Messina, Messina 98125, Italy
| | - Luca M Neri
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Sandra Marmiroli
- Department of Surgery, Medicine, Dentistry and Morphology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Lucio Cocco
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alberto M Martelli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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18
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Steelman LS, Martelli AM, Cocco L, Libra M, Nicoletti F, Abrams SL, McCubrey JA. The therapeutic potential of mTOR inhibitors in breast cancer. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2016; 82:1189-1212. [PMID: 27059645 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.12958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2015] [Revised: 03/29/2016] [Accepted: 03/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Rapamycin and modified rapamycins (rapalogs) have been used to prevent allograft rejection after organ transplant for over 15 years. The mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) has been determined to be a key component of the mTORC1 complex which consists of the serine/threonine kinase TOR and at least five other proteins which are involved in regulating its activity. Some of the best characterized substrates of mTORC1 are proteins which are key kinases involved in the regulation of cell growth (e.g., p70S6K) and protein translation (e.g., 4E-BP1). These proteins may in some cases serve as indicators to sensitivity to rapamycin-related therapies. Dysregulation of mTORC1 activity frequently occurs due to mutations at, or amplifications of, upstream growth factor receptors (e.g., human epidermal growth factor receptor-2, HER2) as well as kinases (e.g., PI3K) and phosphatases (e.g., PTEN) critical in the regulation of cell growth. More recently, it has been shown that certain rapalogs may enhance the effectiveness of hormonal-based therapies for breast cancer patients who have become resistant to endocrine therapy. The combined treatment of certain rapalogs (e.g., everolimus) and aromatase inhibitors (e.g., exemestane) has been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) and other drug regulatory agencies to treat estrogen receptor positive (ER+) breast cancer patients who have become resistant to hormonal-based therapies and have progressed. This review will summarize recent basic and clinical research in the area and evaluate potential novel therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda S Steelman
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Alberto M Martelli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Lucio Cocco
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Massimo Libra
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Laboratory of Translational Oncology & Functional Genomics, Section of Pathology & Oncology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Ferdinando Nicoletti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Laboratory of Translational Oncology & Functional Genomics, Section of Pathology & Oncology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Stephen L Abrams
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - James A McCubrey
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA.
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19
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The PI3K/Akt/PTEN/mTOR pathway: a fruitful target for inducing cell death in rheumatoid arthritis? Future Med Chem 2016; 7:1137-47. [PMID: 26132523 DOI: 10.4155/fmc.15.55] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling regulates diverse cellular processes. Abnormal PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling is a characteristic feature of cancer. As such inhibition of PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling using small molecule inhibitors has been a focus of recently developed anticancer drugs. Rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis are autoimmune-mediated inflammatory diseases. PI3K signaling could now be targeted to determine its contribution to rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis where deregulated proliferation and aberrant survival of activated immune cells, macrophages, monocytes, dendritic cells and synovial fibroblasts significantly overlap with abnormal growth of cancer cells. The results of some recent studies in psoriatic arthritis using PI3K signaling inhibitors suggests that small molecule inhibitor strategies directed at PI3K signaling may be a useful future therapy for immune-mediated arthritis.
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20
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Cani A, Simioni C, Martelli AM, Zauli G, Tabellini G, Ultimo S, McCubrey JA, Capitani S, Neri LM. Triple Akt inhibition as a new therapeutic strategy in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Oncotarget 2016; 6:6597-610. [PMID: 25788264 PMCID: PMC4466637 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.3260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2014] [Accepted: 01/29/2015] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is an aggressive neoplastic disorder in which chemotherapy resistance and refractory relapses occur, with a poorer prognostic outcome. Constitutively active PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway is a common feature of T-ALL upregulating cell proliferation, survival and drug resistance. This pathway is currently under clinical trials with small molecules inhibitors (SMI). To verify whether a multi-inhibition treatment against Akt protein could enhance the efficacy of individual drug administration and overcome drug resistance as well as to obtain a decrease in single drug concentration, we tested on T-ALL cell lines the effects of combined treatments with three Akt inhibitors with different mode of action, GSK690693, MK-2206 and Perifosine. In cells with hyperactivated Akt, combined administration of the drugs displayed a significant synergistic and cytotoxic effect and affected PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway at much lower concentration than single drug use. Highest synergistic effect for full inhibition of Akt was also related to the timing of every drug administration. Furthermore the triple treatment had greater efficacy in inducing cell cycle arrest in G0/G1 phase and both apoptosis and autophagy. Targeting Akt as a key protein of PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway with multiple drugs might represent a new and promising pharmacological strategy for treatment of T-ALL patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Cani
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carolina Simioni
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alberto M Martelli
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giorgio Zauli
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", Trieste, Italy
| | - Giovanna Tabellini
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Simona Ultimo
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - James A McCubrey
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Silvano Capitani
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,LTTA Center, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Luca M Neri
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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21
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Sarmento LM, Barata JT. CHK1 and replicative stress in T-cell leukemia: Can an irreverent tumor suppressor end up playing the oncogene? Adv Biol Regul 2016; 60:115-121. [PMID: 26527132 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbior.2015.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2015] [Revised: 10/19/2015] [Accepted: 10/20/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Replicative stress (RS) is a cell-intrinsic phenomenon enhanced by oncogenic transformation. Checkpoint kinase 1 (CHK1) is a key component of the ATR-dependent DNA damage response pathway that protects cells from RS by preventing replication fork collapse and activating homologous DNA repair. Taking this knowledge into account, one would predict CHK1 behaves strictly as a tumor suppressor. However, the reality seems far more complex. CHEK1 loss-of-function mutations have not been found in human tumors, and transgenic expression of Chek1 in mice promotes oncogene-induced transformation through RS inhibition. Moreover, CHK1 is overexpressed in various human cancers and CHK1 inhibitors have been developed as sensitizers to enhance the cytotoxicity of DNA damage-inducing chemotherapies. Here, we summarize the literature on the involvement of CHK1 in cancer progression, including our recent observation that CHK1 sustains T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) cell viability. We also debate the importance of identifying patients that could benefit the most from treatment with CHK1 inhibitors, taking T-ALL as a model, and propose possible markers of therapeutic response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonor M Sarmento
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - João T Barata
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
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22
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Chappell WH, Abrams SL, Lertpiriyapong K, Fitzgerald TL, Martelli AM, Cocco L, Rakus D, Gizak A, Terrian D, Steelman LS, McCubrey JA. Novel roles of androgen receptor, epidermal growth factor receptor, TP53, regulatory RNAs, NF-kappa-B, chromosomal translocations, neutrophil associated gelatinase, and matrix metalloproteinase-9 in prostate cancer and prostate cancer stem cells. Adv Biol Regul 2015; 60:64-87. [PMID: 26525204 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbior.2015.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2015] [Accepted: 10/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Approximately one in six men will be diagnosed with some form of prostate cancer in their lifetime. Over 250,000 men worldwide die annually due to complications from prostate cancer. While advancements in prostate cancer screening and therapies have helped in lowering this statistic, better tests and more effective therapies are still needed. This review will summarize the novel roles of the androgen receptor (AR), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), the EGFRvIII variant, TP53, long-non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), microRNAs (miRs), NF-kappa-B, chromosomal translocations, neutrophil associated gelatinase, (NGAL), matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), the tumor microenvironment and cancer stem cells (CSC) have on the diagnosis, development and treatment of prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- William H Chappell
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA
| | - Stephen L Abrams
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA
| | - Kvin Lertpiriyapong
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Timothy L Fitzgerald
- Department of Surgery, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Alberto M Martelli
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Lucio Cocco
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Dariusz Rakus
- Department of Animal Molecular Physiology, Institute of Experimental Biology, Wroclaw University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Gizak
- Department of Animal Molecular Physiology, Institute of Experimental Biology, Wroclaw University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - David Terrian
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Linda S Steelman
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA
| | - James A McCubrey
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA.
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Chiarini F, Lonetti A, Evangelisti C, Buontempo F, Orsini E, Evangelisti C, Cappellini A, Neri LM, McCubrey JA, Martelli AM. Advances in understanding the acute lymphoblastic leukemia bone marrow microenvironment: From biology to therapeutic targeting. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2015; 1863:449-463. [PMID: 26334291 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2015.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2015] [Revised: 08/26/2015] [Accepted: 08/27/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The bone marrow (BM) microenvironment regulates the properties of healthy hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) localized in specific niches. Two distinct microenvironmental niches have been identified in the BM, the "osteoblastic (endosteal)" and "vascular" niches. Nevertheless, these niches provide sanctuaries where subsets of leukemic cells escape chemotherapy-induced death and acquire a drug-resistant phenotype. Moreover, it is emerging that leukemia cells are able to remodel the BM niches into malignant niches which better support neoplastic cell survival and proliferation. This review focuses on the cellular and molecular biology of microenvironment/leukemia interactions in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) of both B- and T-cell lineage. We shall also highlight the emerging role of exosomes/microvesicles as efficient messengers for cell-to-cell communication in leukemia settings. Studies on the interactions between the BM microenvironment and ALL cells have led to the discovery of potential therapeutic targets which include cytokines/chemokines and their receptors, adhesion molecules, signal transduction pathways, and hypoxia-related proteins. The complex interplays between leukemic cells and BM microenvironment components provide a rationale for innovative, molecularly targeted therapies, designed to improve ALL patient outcome. A better understanding of the contribution of the BM microenvironment to the process of leukemogenesis and leukemia persistence after initial remission, may provide new targets that will allow destruction of leukemia cells without adversely affecting healthy HSCs. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Tumor Microenvironment Regulation of Cancer Cell Survival, Metastasis,Inflammation, and Immune Surveillance edited by Peter Ruvolo and Gregg L. Semenza.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Chiarini
- Institute of Molecular Genetics, National Research Council, Rizzoli Orthopedic Institute, Bologna, Italy
| | - Annalisa Lonetti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Camilla Evangelisti
- Institute of Molecular Genetics, National Research Council, Rizzoli Orthopedic Institute, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesca Buontempo
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Ester Orsini
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Cecilia Evangelisti
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alessandra Cappellini
- Department of Human Social and Health Sciences, University of Cassino, Cassino, Italy
| | - Luca M Neri
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - James A McCubrey
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Alberto M Martelli
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
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24
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Kriplani N, Hermida MA, Brown ER, Leslie NR. Class I PI 3-kinases: Function and evolution. Adv Biol Regul 2015; 59:53-64. [PMID: 26159297 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbior.2015.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2015] [Accepted: 05/25/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
In many human cell types, the class I phosphoinositide 3-kinases play key roles in the control of diverse cellular processes including growth, proliferation, survival and polarity. This is achieved through their activation by many cell surface receptors, leading to the synthesis of the phosphoinositide lipid signal, PIP3, which in turn influences the function of numerous direct PIP3-binding proteins. Here we review PI3K pathway biology and analyse the evolutionary distribution of its components and their functions. The broad phylogenetic distribution of class I PI3Ks in metazoa, amoebozoa and choannoflagellates, implies that these enzymes evolved in single celled organisms and were later co-opted into metazoan intercellular communication. A similar distribution is evident for the AKT and Cytohesin groups of downstream PIP3-binding proteins, with other effectors and pathway components appearing to evolve later. The genomic and functional phylogeny of regulatory systems such as the PI3K pathway provides a framework to improve our understanding of the mechanisms by which key cellular processes are controlled in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisha Kriplani
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Biophysics and Bioengineering, Heriot Watt University, Edinburgh, EH14 4AS, UK
| | - Miguel A Hermida
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Biophysics and Bioengineering, Heriot Watt University, Edinburgh, EH14 4AS, UK
| | - Euan R Brown
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Biophysics and Bioengineering, Heriot Watt University, Edinburgh, EH14 4AS, UK
| | - Nicholas R Leslie
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Biophysics and Bioengineering, Heriot Watt University, Edinburgh, EH14 4AS, UK.
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25
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Roles of NGAL and MMP-9 in the tumor microenvironment and sensitivity to targeted therapy. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2015; 1863:438-448. [PMID: 26278055 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2015.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2015] [Revised: 08/08/2015] [Accepted: 08/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Various, diverse molecules contribute to the tumor microenvironment and influence invasion and metastasis. In this review, the roles of neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) in the tumor microenvironment and sensitivity to therapy will be discussed. The lipocalin family of proteins has many important functions. For example when NGAL forms a complex with MMP-9 it increases its stability which is important in cancer metastasis. Small hydrophobic molecules are bound by NGAL which can alter their entry into and efflux from cells. Iron transport and storage are also influenced by NGAL activity. Regulation of iron levels is important for survival in the tumor microenvironment as well as metastasis. Innate immunity is also regulated by NGAL as it can have bacteriostatic properties. NGAL and MMP-9 expression may also affect the sensitivity of cancer cells to chemotherapy as well as targeted therapy. Thus NGAL and MMP-9 play important roles in key processes involved in metastasis as well as response to therapy. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Tumor Microenvironment Regulation of Cancer Cell Survival, Metastasis, Inflammation, and Immune Surveillance edited by Peter Ruvolo and Gregg L. Semenza.
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26
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Durinck K, Goossens S, Peirs S, Wallaert A, Van Loocke W, Matthijssens F, Pieters T, Milani G, Lammens T, Rondou P, Van Roy N, De Moerloose B, Benoit Y, Haigh J, Speleman F, Poppe B, Van Vlierberghe P. Novel biological insights in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Exp Hematol 2015; 43:625-39. [PMID: 26123366 DOI: 10.1016/j.exphem.2015.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2015] [Accepted: 05/24/2015] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is an aggressive type of blood cancer that accounts for about 15% of pediatric and 25% of adult acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) cases. It is considered as a paradigm for the multistep nature of cancer initiation and progression. Genetic and epigenetic reprogramming events, which transform T-cell precursors into malignant T-ALL lymphoblasts, have been extensively characterized over the past decade. Despite our comprehensive understanding of the genomic landscape of human T-ALL, leukemia patients are still treated by high-dose multiagent chemotherapy, potentially followed by hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Even with such aggressive treatment regimens, which are often associated with considerable acute and long-term side effects, about 15% of pediatric and 40% of adult T-ALL patients still relapse, owing to acquired therapy resistance, and present with very dismal survival perspectives. Unfortunately, the molecular mechanisms by which residual T-ALL tumor cells survive chemotherapy and act as a reservoir for leukemic progression and hematologic relapse remain poorly understood. Nevertheless, it is expected that enhanced molecular understanding of T-ALL disease biology will ultimately facilitate a targeted therapy driven approach that can reduce chemotherapy-associated toxicities and improve survival of refractory T-ALL patients through personalized salvage therapy. In this review, we summarize recent biological insights into the molecular pathogenesis of T-ALL and speculate how the genetic landscape of T-ALL could trigger the development of novel therapeutic strategies for the treatment of human T-ALL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaat Durinck
- Center for Medical Genetics, Department for Pediatrics, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Steven Goossens
- Department for Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; Unit for Molecular Oncology, VIB Inflammation Research Center, Ghent, Belgium; Mammalian Functional Genetics Laboratory, Division of Blood Cancers, Australian Centre for Blood Diseases, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sofie Peirs
- Center for Medical Genetics, Department for Pediatrics, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Annelynn Wallaert
- Center for Medical Genetics, Department for Pediatrics, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Wouter Van Loocke
- Center for Medical Genetics, Department for Pediatrics, Ghent, Belgium
| | | | - Tim Pieters
- Center for Medical Genetics, Department for Pediatrics, Ghent, Belgium; Department for Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; Unit for Molecular Oncology, VIB Inflammation Research Center, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Gloria Milani
- Center for Medical Genetics, Department for Pediatrics, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Tim Lammens
- Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Pieter Rondou
- Center for Medical Genetics, Department for Pediatrics, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Nadine Van Roy
- Center for Medical Genetics, Department for Pediatrics, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Barbara De Moerloose
- Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Yves Benoit
- Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jody Haigh
- Mammalian Functional Genetics Laboratory, Division of Blood Cancers, Australian Centre for Blood Diseases, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Frank Speleman
- Center for Medical Genetics, Department for Pediatrics, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Bruce Poppe
- Center for Medical Genetics, Department for Pediatrics, Ghent, Belgium
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27
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Wang JY, Jia XH, Xing HY, Li YJ, Fan WW, Li N, Xie SY. Inhibition of Forkhead box protein M1 by thiostrepton increases chemosensitivity to doxorubicin in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Mol Med Rep 2015; 12:1457-64. [PMID: 25760224 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2015.3469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2014] [Accepted: 02/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is an aggressive type of blood malignancy, deriving from T-cell progenitors in the thymus, and comprises 10-15% of pediatric and 25% of adult primary ALL cases. Despite advances, 20% of pediatric and the majority of adult patients with T-ALL succumb to mortality from resistant or relapsed disease, and the survival rate for patients with resistant or relapsed T-ALL remains poor. Alterations in the expression of Forkhead box protein M1 (FoxM1) have been detected in several types of cancer, and the inhibition of FoxM1 has been investigated as therapeutic strategy in cancer. The present study investigated the effects of the inhibition of FoxM1 by thiostrepton in human T-ALL Jurkat cells. The cells were treated with different concentrations of thiostrepton, either alone or in combination with doxorubicin. Cell viability was measured using CCK-8 assays and the cell cycle distribution, apoptosis and cell-associated mean fluorescence intensity of intracellular doxorubicin were assessed using flow cytometric analysis. The mRNA and protein expression levels were detected by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot analyses. The inhibition of FoxM1 by thiostrepton significantly decreased the proliferation of the Jurkat cells proliferation in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Cell arrest at the G2/M phase, and apoptosis was significantly increased in the thiostrepton-treated Jurkat cells. Thiostrepton reduced the half maximal inhibitory concentration of doxorubicin in the Jurkat cells, and significantly enhanced the cytotoxicity of doxorubicin within the Jurkat cells by enhancing doxorubicin-induced apoptosis and increasing the accumulation of intracellular doxorubicin. Furthermore, the inhibition of FoxM1 by thiostrepton enhanced doxorubicin-induced apoptosis, possibly through a caspase-3-dependent pathway, and increased the accumulation of intracellular doxorubicin, possibly through downregulating the expression of glutathione S-transferase pi. Collectively, the results of the present study suggested that targeting FoxM1 with thiostrepton resulted in potent antileukemia activity and chemosensitizing effects in human T-ALL Jurkat cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Yong Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, The Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou, Shandong 256603, P.R. China
| | - Xiu-Hong Jia
- Department of Pediatrics, The Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou, Shandong 256603, P.R. China
| | - Hai-Yan Xing
- Department of Respiration, Binzhou People's Hospital, Binzhou, Shandong 256603, P.R. China
| | - You-Jie Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Key Laboratory of Tumour Molecular Biology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong 264003, P.R. China
| | - Wen-Wen Fan
- Department of Pediatrics, Women and Children Hospital of Qingdao, Qingdao, Shandong 266011, P.R. China
| | - Na Li
- Department of Pediatrics, The Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou, Shandong 256603, P.R. China
| | - Shu-Yang Xie
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Key Laboratory of Tumour Molecular Biology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong 264003, P.R. China
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28
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Milella M, Falcone I, Conciatori F, Cesta Incani U, Del Curatolo A, Inzerilli N, Nuzzo CMA, Vaccaro V, Vari S, Cognetti F, Ciuffreda L. PTEN: Multiple Functions in Human Malignant Tumors. Front Oncol 2015; 5:24. [PMID: 25763354 PMCID: PMC4329810 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2015.00024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 322] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2014] [Accepted: 01/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
PTEN is the most important negative regulator of the PI3K signaling pathway. In addition to its canonical, PI3K inhibition-dependent functions, PTEN can also function as a tumor suppressor in a PI3K-independent manner. Indeed, the PTEN network regulates a broad spectrum of biological functions, modulating the flow of information from membrane-bound growth factor receptors to nuclear transcription factors, occurring in concert with other tumor suppressors and oncogenic signaling pathways. PTEN acts through its lipid and protein phosphatase activity and other non-enzymatic mechanisms. Studies conducted over the past 10 years have expanded our understanding of the biological role of PTEN, showing that in addition to its ability to regulate proliferation and cell survival, it also plays an intriguing role in regulating genomic stability, cell migration, stem cell self-renewal, and tumor microenvironment. Changes in PTEN protein levels, location, and enzymatic activity through various molecular mechanisms can generate a continuum of functional PTEN levels in inherited syndromes, sporadic cancers, and other diseases. PTEN activity can indeed, be modulated by mutations, epigenetic silencing, transcriptional repression, aberrant protein localization, and post-translational modifications. This review will discuss our current understanding of the biological role of PTEN, how PTEN expression and activity are regulated, and the consequences of PTEN dysregulation in human malignant tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Milella
- Division of Medical Oncology A, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute , Rome , Italy
| | - Italia Falcone
- Division of Medical Oncology A, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute , Rome , Italy
| | - Fabiana Conciatori
- Division of Medical Oncology A, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute , Rome , Italy
| | - Ursula Cesta Incani
- Division of Medical Oncology A, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute , Rome , Italy
| | - Anais Del Curatolo
- Division of Medical Oncology A, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute , Rome , Italy
| | - Nicola Inzerilli
- Division of Medical Oncology A, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute , Rome , Italy
| | - Carmen M A Nuzzo
- Division of Medical Oncology A, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute , Rome , Italy
| | - Vanja Vaccaro
- Division of Medical Oncology A, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute , Rome , Italy
| | - Sabrina Vari
- Division of Medical Oncology A, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute , Rome , Italy
| | - Francesco Cognetti
- Division of Medical Oncology A, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute , Rome , Italy
| | - Ludovica Ciuffreda
- Division of Medical Oncology A, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute , Rome , Italy
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29
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Follo MY, Manzoli L, Poli A, McCubrey JA, Cocco L. PLC and PI3K/Akt/mTOR signalling in disease and cancer. Adv Biol Regul 2014; 57:10-6. [PMID: 25482988 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbior.2014.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2014] [Accepted: 10/22/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Cancer cell metabolism is deregulated, and signalling pathways can be involved. For instance, PI3K/Akt/mTOR is associated with normal proliferation and differentiation, and its alteration is detectable in cancer cells, that exploit the normal mechanisms to overcome apoptosis. On the other hand, also the family of Phospholipase C (PLC) enzymes play a critical role in cell growth, and any change concerning these enzymes or their downstream targets can be associated with neoplastic transformation. Here, we review the role of PLC and PI3K/Akt/mTOR signal transduction pathways in pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matilde Y Follo
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, Cellular Signalling Laboratory, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Lucia Manzoli
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, Cellular Signalling Laboratory, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alessandro Poli
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, Cellular Signalling Laboratory, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - James A McCubrey
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Lucio Cocco
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, Cellular Signalling Laboratory, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
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30
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McCubrey JA, Abrams SL, Fitzgerald TL, Cocco L, Martelli AM, Montalto G, Cervello M, Scalisi A, Candido S, Libra M, Steelman LS. Roles of signaling pathways in drug resistance, cancer initiating cells and cancer progression and metastasis. Adv Biol Regul 2014; 57:75-101. [PMID: 25453219 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbior.2014.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2014] [Accepted: 09/13/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The EGFR/PI3K/PTEN/Akt/mTORC pathway plays prominent roles in malignant transformation, prevention of apoptosis, drug resistance, cancer initiating cells (CICs) and metastasis. The expression of this pathway is frequently altered in breast and other cancers due to mutations at or aberrant expression of: HER2, EGFR1, PIK3CA, and PTEN as well as other oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes. miRs and epigenetic mechanisms of gene regulation are also important events which regulate this pathway. In some breast cancer cases, mutations at certain components of this pathway (e.g., PIK3CA) are associated with a better prognosis than breast cancers lacking these mutations. The expression of this pathway has been associated with CICs and in some cases resistance to therapeutics. We will review the effects of activation of the EGFR/PI3K/PTEN/Akt/mTORC pathway primarily in breast cancer and development of drug resistance. The targeting of this pathway and other interacting pathways will be discussed as well as clinical trials with novel small molecule inhibitors as well as established drugs that are used to treat other diseases. In this manuscript, we will discuss an inducible EGFR model (v-ERB-B:ER) and its effects on cell growth, cell cycle progression, activation of signal transduction pathways, prevention of apoptosis in hematopoietic, breast and prostate cancer models.
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Affiliation(s)
- James A McCubrey
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA.
| | - Stephen L Abrams
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Timothy L Fitzgerald
- Department of Surgery, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Lucio Cocco
- Cellular Signalling Laboratory, Department of Anatomical Sciences, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy; Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alberto M Martelli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Montalto
- Biomedical Department of Internal Medicine and Specialties, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Melchiorre Cervello
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Istituto di Biomedicina e Immunologia Molecolare "Alberto Monroy", Palermo, Italy
| | - Aurora Scalisi
- Unit of Oncologic Diseases, ASP-Catania, Catania 95100, Italy
| | - Saverio Candido
- Department of Bio-Medical Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Massimo Libra
- Department of Bio-Medical Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Linda S Steelman
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
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31
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Fragoso R, Barata JT. PTEN and leukemia stem cells. Adv Biol Regul 2014; 56:22-29. [PMID: 24961634 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbior.2014.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2014] [Revised: 05/21/2014] [Accepted: 05/22/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Leukemia stem cells (LSCs) are considered responsible for leukemia initiation, relapse and resistance to chemotherapy. These cells have self-renewal capacity and originate the other cells in the leukemia pool. Therefore, in order to completely eradicate leukemia cells and consequently cure the disease, therapies should in principle necessarily target LSCs. However, the fact that LSCs share functional and phenotypic properties with normal hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) poses a significant challenge: how to target LSCs without damaging normal HSCs and compromising hematopoiesis? The discovery that PTEN regulates LSCs and HSCs through different mechanisms, demonstrated that it is possible to identify pathways that differentially impact leukemia and normal stem cell function and opened new therapeutic perspectives for the selective elimination of LSCs. In this review, we briefly discuss the mechanisms that regulate PTEN function in LSCs and HSCs and their potential for the development of LSC-targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Fragoso
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - João T Barata
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
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