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Thakur C, Qiu Y, Pawar A, Chen F. Epigenetic regulation of breast cancer metastasis. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2024; 43:597-619. [PMID: 37857941 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-023-10146-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed malignancy and the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality among women worldwide. Recurrent metastasis is associated with poor patient outcomes and poses a significant challenge in breast cancer therapies. Cancer cells adapting to a new tissue microenvironment is the key event in distant metastasis development, where the disseminating tumor cells are likely to acquire genetic and epigenetic alterations during the process of metastatic colonization. Despite several decades of research in this field, the exact mechanisms governing metastasis are not fully understood. However, emerging body of evidence indicates that in addition to genetic changes, epigenetic reprogramming of cancer cells and the metastatic niche are paramount toward successful metastasis. Here, we review and discuss the latest knowledge about the salient attributes of metastasis and epigenetic regulation in breast cancer and crucial research domains that need further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chitra Thakur
- Stony Brook Cancer Center, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Lauterbur Drive, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA.
| | - Yiran Qiu
- Stony Brook Cancer Center, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Lauterbur Drive, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA
| | - Aashna Pawar
- Stony Brook Cancer Center, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Lauterbur Drive, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA
| | - Fei Chen
- Stony Brook Cancer Center, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Lauterbur Drive, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA.
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2
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Chen Y, Zhu H, Luo Y, Tong S, Liu Y. EZH2: The roles in targeted therapy and mechanisms of resistance in breast cancer. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 175:116624. [PMID: 38670045 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116624] [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: 01/28/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Drug resistance presents a formidable challenge in the realm of breast cancer therapy. Accumulating evidence suggests that enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), a component of the polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), may serve as a key regulator in controlling drug resistance. EZH2 overexpression has been observed in breast cancer and many other malignancies, showing a strong correlation with poor outcomes. This review aims to summarize the mechanisms by which EZH2 regulates drug resistance, with a specific focus on breast cancer, in order to provide a comprehensive understanding of the underlying molecular processes. Additionally, we will discuss the current strategies and outcomes of targeting EZH2 using both single agents and combination therapies, with the goal of offering improved guidance for the clinical treatment of breast cancer patients who have developed drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Chen
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China; Clinical Pharmacy Innovation Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China.
| | - Hongyan Zhu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China; Clinical Pharmacy Innovation Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China.
| | - Yi Luo
- Clinical Pharmacy Innovation Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China; Biotheus Inc., Guangdong Province, Zhuhai 519080, PR China.
| | - Shuangmei Tong
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China; Clinical Pharmacy Innovation Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China.
| | - Yan Liu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China; Clinical Pharmacy Innovation Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China.
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3
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Srivastava A, Ahmad R, Yadav K, Siddiqui S, Trivedi A, Misra A, Mehrotra S, Ahmad B, Ali Khan M. An update on existing therapeutic options and status of novel anti-metastatic agents in breast cancer: Elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying the pleiotropic action of Withania somnifera (Indian ginseng) in breast cancer attenuation. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 136:112232. [PMID: 38815352 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Major significant advancements in pharmacology and drug technology have been made to heighten the impact of cancer therapies, improving the life expectancy of subjects diagnosed with malignancy. Statistically, 99% of breast cancers occur in women while 0.5-1% occur in men, the female gender being the strongest breast cancer risk factor. Despite several breakthroughs, breast cancer continues to have a worldwide impact and is one of the leading causes of mortality. Additionally, resistance to therapy is a crucial factor enabling cancer cell persistence and resurgence. As a result, the search and discovery of novel modulatory agents and effective therapies capable of controlling tumor progression and cancer cell proliferation is critical. Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (WS), commonly known as Indian ginseng, has long been used traditionally for the treatment of several ailments in the Indian context. Recently, WS and its phytoconstituents have shown promising anti-breast cancer properties and, as such, can be employed as prophylactic as well as therapeutic adjuncts to the main line of breast cancer treatment. The present review is an attempt to explore and provide experimental evidences in support of the prophylactic and therapeutic potential of WS in breast cancer, along with a deeper insight into the multiple molecular mechanisms and novel targets through which it acts against breast and other hormonally-induced cancers viz. ovarian, uterine and cervical. This exploration might prove crucial in providing better understanding of breast cancer progression and metastasis and its use as an adjunct in improving disease prognosis and therapeutic outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aditi Srivastava
- Dept. of Biochemistry, Era's Lucknow Medical College and Hospital, Era University, Sarfarazganj, Hardoi Road, Lucknow 226003, UP., India.
| | - Rumana Ahmad
- Dept. of Biochemistry, Era's Lucknow Medical College and Hospital, Era University, Sarfarazganj, Hardoi Road, Lucknow 226003, UP., India.
| | - Kusum Yadav
- Dept. of Biochemistry, University of Lucknow, Lucknow 226007, UP., India.
| | - Sahabjada Siddiqui
- Dept. of Biotechnology, Era's Lucknow Medical College & Hospital, Era University, Sarfarazganj, Hardoi Road, Lucknow 226003, UP., India.
| | - Anchal Trivedi
- Dept. of Biochemistry, Era's Lucknow Medical College and Hospital, Era University, Sarfarazganj, Hardoi Road, Lucknow 226003, UP., India.
| | - Aparna Misra
- Dept. of Biochemistry, Era's Lucknow Medical College and Hospital, Era University, Sarfarazganj, Hardoi Road, Lucknow 226003, UP., India.
| | - Sudhir Mehrotra
- Dept. of Biochemistry, University of Lucknow, Lucknow 226007, UP., India.
| | - Bilal Ahmad
- Research Cell, Era University, Sarfarazganj, Hardoi Road, Lucknow 226003, UP., India.
| | - Mohsin Ali Khan
- Dept. of Research & Development, Era University, Lucknow 226003, UP., India.
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4
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Zhuang K, Leng L, Su X, Wang S, Su Y, Chen Y, Yuan Z, Zi L, Li J, Xie W, Yan S, Xia Y, Wang H, Li H, Chen Z, Yuan T, Zhang J. Menin Deficiency Induces Autism-Like Behaviors by Regulating Foxg1 Transcription and Participates in Foxg1-Related Encephalopathy. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024:e2307953. [PMID: 38582517 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202307953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
FOXG1 syndrome is a developmental encephalopathy caused by FOXG1 (Forkhead box G1) mutations, resulting in high phenotypic variability. However, the upstream transcriptional regulation of Foxg1 expression remains unclear. This report demonstrates that both deficiency and overexpression of Men1 (protein: menin, a pathogenic gene of MEN1 syndrome known as multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1) lead to autism-like behaviors, such as social defects, increased repetitive behaviors, and cognitive impairments. Multifaceted transcriptome analyses revealed that Foxg1 signaling is predominantly altered in Men1 deficiency mice, through its regulation of the Alpha Thalassemia/Mental Retardation Syndrome X-Linked (Atrx) factor. Atrx recruits menin to bind to the transcriptional start region of Foxg1 and mediates the regulation of Foxg1 expression by H3K4me3 (Trimethylation of histone H3 lysine 4) modification. The deficits observed in menin deficient mice are rescued by the over-expression of Foxg1, leading to normalized spine growth and restoration of hippocampal synaptic plasticity. These findings suggest that menin may have a putative role in the maintenance of Foxg1 expression, highlighting menin signaling as a potential therapeutic target for Foxg1-related encephalopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Zhuang
- Institute of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361105, China
| | - Lige Leng
- Institute of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361105, China
| | - Xiao Su
- Institute of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361105, China
| | - Shuzhong Wang
- Institute of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361105, China
| | - Yuemin Su
- Institute of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361105, China
| | - Yanbing Chen
- Institute of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361105, China
| | - Ziqi Yuan
- Institute of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361105, China
| | - Liu Zi
- Institute of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361105, China
| | - Jieyin Li
- Institute of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361105, China
| | - Wenting Xie
- Institute of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361105, China
| | - Sihan Yan
- Institute of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361105, China
| | - Yujun Xia
- Institute of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361105, China
| | - Han Wang
- Institute of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361105, China
| | - Huifang Li
- Institute of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361105, China
| | - Zhenyi Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361105, China
| | - Tifei Yuan
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Institute of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361105, China
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361105, China
- The Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology, Ministry of Education, College of Basic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, China
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5
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Iwase T, Wang X, Thi Hanh Phi L, Sridhar N, Ueno NT, Lee J. Advances in targets in inflammatory breast cancer. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 384:125-152. [PMID: 38637096 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2023.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Toshiaki Iwase
- Section of Translational Breast Cancer Research, Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States; Morgan Welch Inflammatory Breast Cancer Research Program and Clinic, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States; University of Hawaii Cancer Center, Honolulu, HI, United States.
| | - Xiaoping Wang
- Section of Translational Breast Cancer Research, Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States; Morgan Welch Inflammatory Breast Cancer Research Program and Clinic, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Lan Thi Hanh Phi
- Section of Translational Breast Cancer Research, Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States; Morgan Welch Inflammatory Breast Cancer Research Program and Clinic, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Nithya Sridhar
- Section of Translational Breast Cancer Research, Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Naoto T Ueno
- Section of Translational Breast Cancer Research, Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States; Morgan Welch Inflammatory Breast Cancer Research Program and Clinic, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States; University of Hawaii Cancer Center, Honolulu, HI, United States
| | - Jangsoon Lee
- Section of Translational Breast Cancer Research, Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States; Morgan Welch Inflammatory Breast Cancer Research Program and Clinic, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
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Liu L, Xiao B, Hirukawa A, Smith HW, Zuo D, Sanguin-Gendreau V, McCaffrey L, Nam AJ, Muller WJ. Ezh2 promotes mammary tumor initiation through epigenetic regulation of the Wnt and mTORC1 signaling pathways. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2303010120. [PMID: 37549258 PMCID: PMC10438390 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2303010120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The regulation of gene expression through histone posttranslational modifications plays a crucial role in breast cancer progression. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the contribution of histone modification to tumor initiation remain unclear. To gain a deeper understanding of the role of the histone modifier Enhancer of Zeste homology 2 (Ezh2) in the early stages of mammary tumor progression, we employed an inducible mammary organoid system bearing conditional Ezh2 alleles that faithfully recapitulates key events of luminal B breast cancer initiation. We showed that the loss of Ezh2 severely impairs oncogene-induced organoid growth, with Ezh2-deficient organoids maintaining a polarized epithelial phenotype. Transcriptomic profiling showed that Ezh2-deficient mammary epithelial cells up-regulated the expression of negative regulators of Wnt signaling and down-regulated genes involved in mTORC1 (mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1) signaling. We identified Sfrp1, a Wnt signaling suppressor, as an Ezh2 target gene that is derepressed and expressed in Ezh2-deficient epithelium. Furthermore, an analysis of breast cancer data revealed that Sfrp1 expression was associated with favorable clinical outcomes in luminal B breast cancer patients. Finally, we confirmed that targeting Ezh2 impairs mTORC1 activity through an indirect mechanism that up-regulates the expression of the tumor suppressor Pten. These findings indicate that Ezh2 integrates the mTORC1 and Wnt signaling pathways during early mammary tumor progression, arguing that inhibiting Ezh2 or therapeutically targeting Ezh2-dependent programs could be beneficial for the treatment of early-stage luminal B breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linshan Liu
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
| | - Bin Xiao
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
| | - Alison Hirukawa
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
| | - Harvey W. Smith
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
| | - Dongmei Zuo
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
| | - Virginie Sanguin-Gendreau
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
| | - Luke McCaffrey
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
- Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
- Department of Oncology, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A0G4, Canada
| | - Alice Jisoo Nam
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
| | - William J. Muller
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
- Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QCH3A 1A3, Canada
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7
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Hong L, Williams NL, Jaffe M, Shields CE, Haynes KA. Synthetic Reader-Actuators Targeted to Polycomb-Silenced Genes Block Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Proliferation and Invasion. GEN BIOTECHNOLOGY 2023; 2:301-316. [PMID: 37928406 PMCID: PMC10623628 DOI: 10.1089/genbio.2023.0020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Scientists have used pharmacological inhibitors of polycomb proteins to restore the expression of tumor suppressor genes and stop cancer proliferation and invasion. A major limitation of this approach is that key transcriptional activators, such as TP53 and BAF SWI/SNF, are often mutated in cancer. Poor clinical results for polycomb-targeting therapies in solid cancers, including triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), could discourage the further development of epigenetic monotherapies. Here, we performed epigenome actuation with a synthetic reader-actuator (SRA) that binds trimethylated histone H3 lysine 27 in polycomb chromatin and modulates core transcriptional activators. In SRA-expressing TNBC BT-549 cells, 122 genes become upregulated ≥2-fold, including the genes involved in cell death, cell cycle arrest, and migration inhibition. The SRA-expressing spheroids showed reduced size in Matrigel and loss of invasion. Therefore, targeting Mediator-recruiting regulators to silenced chromatin can activate tumor suppressors and stimulate anti-cancer phenotypes, and further development of robust gene regulators might benefit TNBC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Hong
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia, USA; and Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Natecia L. Williams
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Maya Jaffe
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia, USA; and Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Cara E. Shields
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Karmella A. Haynes
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia, USA; and Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Takashima K, Lee DJ, Trovero MF, Rothi MH, Mistry M, Zhang Y, Li Z, Davis CP, Li Z, Natale J, Schmid E, Al Haddad J, Hoffmann GB, Dietmann S, Sui SH, Oshiumi H, Lieberman J, Greer EL. NOP16 is a histone mimetic that regulates Histone H3K27 methylation and gene repression. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.06.13.544862. [PMID: 37397991 PMCID: PMC10312736 DOI: 10.1101/2023.06.13.544862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
Post-translational modifications of histone tails alter chromatin accessibility to regulate gene expression. Some viruses exploit the importance of histone modifications by expressing histone mimetic proteins that contain histone-like sequences to sequester complexes that recognize modified histones. Here we identify an evolutionarily conserved and ubiquitously expressed, endogenous mammalian protein Nucleolar protein 16 (NOP16) that functions as a H3K27 mimic. NOP16 binds to EED in the H3K27 trimethylation PRC2 complex and to the H3K27 demethylase JMJD3. NOP16 knockout selectively globally increases H3K27me3, a heterochromatin mark, without altering methylation of H3K4, H3K9, or H3K36 or acetylation of H3K27. NOP16 is overexpressed and linked to poor prognosis in breast cancer. Depletion of NOP16 in breast cancer cell lines causes cell cycle arrest, decreases cell proliferation and selectively decreases expression of E2F target genes and of genes involved in cell cycle, growth and apoptosis. Conversely, ectopic NOP16 expression in triple negative breast cancer cell lines increases cell proliferation, cell migration and invasivity in vitro and tumor growth in vivo , while NOP16 knockout or knockdown has the opposite effect. Thus, NOP16 is a histone mimic that competes with Histone H3 for H3K27 methylation and demethylation. When it is overexpressed in cancer, it derepresses genes that promote cell cycle progression to augment breast cancer growth.
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Williams NL, Hong L, Jaffe M, Shields CE, Haynes KA. PIC recruitment by synthetic reader-actuators to polycomb-silenced genes blocks triple-negative breast cancer invasion. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.01.23.525196. [PMID: 36747762 PMCID: PMC9900809 DOI: 10.1101/2023.01.23.525196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Scientists have used small molecule inhibitors and genetic knockdown of gene-silencing polycomb repressive complexes (PRC1/2) to determine if restoring the expression of tumor suppressor genes can block proliferation and invasion of cancer cells. A major limitation of this approach is that inhibitors can not restore key transcriptional activators that are mutated in many cancers, such as p53 and members of the BRAF SWI/SNF complex. Furthermore, small molecule inhibitors can alter the activity of, rather than inhibit, the polycomb enzyme EZH2. While chromatin has been shown to play a major role in gene regulation in cancer, poor clinical results for polycomb chromatin-targeting therapies for diseases like triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) could discourage further development of this emerging avenue for treatment. To overcome the limitations of inhibiting polycomb to study epigenetic regulation, we developed an engineered chromatin protein to manipulate transcription. The synthetic reader-actuator (SRA) is a fusion protein that directly binds a target chromatin modification and regulates gene expression. Here, we report the activity of an SRA built from polycomb chromodomain and VP64 modules that bind H3K27me3 and subunits of the Mediator complex, respectively. In SRA-expressing BT-549 cells, we identified 122 upregulated differentially expressed genes (UpDEGs, ≥ 2-fold activation, adjusted p < 0.05). On-target epigenetic regulation was determined by identifying UpDEGs at H3K27me3-enriched, closed chromatin. SRA activity induced activation of genes involved in cell death, cell cycle arrest, and the inhibition of migration and invasion. SRA-expressing BT-549 cells showed reduced spheroid size in Matrigel over time, loss of invasion, and activation of apoptosis. These results show that Mediator-recruiting regulators broadly targeted to silenced chromatin activate silenced tumor suppressor genes and stimulate anti-cancer phenotypes. Therefore further development of gene-activating epigenetic therapies might benefit TNBC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natecia L Williams
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30312 USA
| | - Lauren Hong
- Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332
| | - Maya Jaffe
- Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332
| | - Cara E Shields
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30312 USA
| | - Karmella A Haynes
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30312 USA
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10
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Chen F, Byrd AL, Liu J, Flight RM, DuCote TJ, Naughton KJ, Song X, Edgin AR, Lukyanchuk A, Dixon DT, Gosser CM, Esoe DP, Jayswal RD, Orkin SH, Moseley HNB, Wang C, Brainson CF. Polycomb deficiency drives a FOXP2-high aggressive state targetable by epigenetic inhibitors. Nat Commun 2023; 14:336. [PMID: 36670102 PMCID: PMC9859827 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-35784-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Inhibitors of the Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 (PRC2) histone methyltransferase EZH2 are approved for certain cancers, but realizing their wider utility relies upon understanding PRC2 biology in each cancer system. Using a genetic model to delete Ezh2 in KRAS-driven lung adenocarcinomas, we observed that Ezh2 haplo-insufficient tumors were less lethal and lower grade than Ezh2 fully-insufficient tumors, which were poorly differentiated and metastatic. Using three-dimensional cultures and in vivo experiments, we determined that EZH2-deficient tumors were vulnerable to H3K27 demethylase or BET inhibitors. PRC2 loss/inhibition led to de-repression of FOXP2, a transcription factor that promotes migration and stemness, and FOXP2 could be suppressed by BET inhibition. Poorly differentiated human lung cancers were enriched for an H3K27me3-low state, representing a subtype that may benefit from BET inhibition as a single therapy or combined with additional EZH2 inhibition. These data highlight diverse roles of PRC2 in KRAS-driven lung adenocarcinomas, and demonstrate the utility of three-dimensional cultures for exploring epigenetic drug sensitivities for cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Chen
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, 510060, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Aria L Byrd
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Jinpeng Liu
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Robert M Flight
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Biochemistry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Tanner J DuCote
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Kassandra J Naughton
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Xiulong Song
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Abigail R Edgin
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Alexsandr Lukyanchuk
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Danielle T Dixon
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Christian M Gosser
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Dave-Preston Esoe
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Rani D Jayswal
- Markey Cancer Center Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Shared Resource Facility, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Stuart H Orkin
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Hunter N B Moseley
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Biochemistry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Chi Wang
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Christine Fillmore Brainson
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA.
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA.
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11
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EZH2-H3K27me3 mediated KRT14 upregulation promotes TNBC peritoneal metastasis. Nat Commun 2022; 13:7344. [PMID: 36446780 PMCID: PMC9708848 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-35059-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) has a poor prognosis and adverse clinical outcomes among all breast cancer subtypes as there is no available targeted therapy. Overexpression of Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) has been shown to correlate with TNBC's poor prognosis, but the contribution of EZH2 catalytic (H3K27me3) versus non-catalytic EZH2 (NC-EZH2) function in TNBC progression remains elusive. We reveal that selective hyper-activation of functional EZH2 (H3K27me3) over NC-EZH2 alters TNBC metastatic landscape and fosters its peritoneal metastasis, particularly splenic. Instead of H3K27me3-mediated repression of gene expression; here, it promotes KRT14 transcription by attenuating binding of repressor SP1 to its promoter. Further, KRT14 loss significantly reduces TNBC migration, invasion, and peritoneal metastasis. Consistently, human TNBC metastasis displays positive correlation between H3K27me3 and KRT14 levels. Finally, EZH2 knockdown or H3K27me3 inhibition by EPZ6438 reduces TNBC peritoneal metastasis. Altogether, our preclinical findings suggest a rationale for targeting TNBC with EZH2 inhibitors.
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12
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Day CA, Hinchcliffe EH, Robinson JP. H3K27me3 in Diffuse Midline Glioma and Epithelial Ovarian Cancer: Opposing Epigenetic Changes Leading to the Same Poor Outcomes. Cells 2022; 11:cells11213376. [PMID: 36359771 PMCID: PMC9655269 DOI: 10.3390/cells11213376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Histone post-translational modifications modulate gene expression through epigenetic gene regulation. The core histone H3 family members, H3.1, H3.2, and H3.3, play a central role in epigenetics. H3 histones can acquire many post-translational modifications, including the trimethylation of H3K27 (H3K27me3), which represses transcription. Triple methylation of H3K27 is performed by the histone methyltransferase Enhancer of Zeste Homologue 2 (EZH2), a component of the Polycomb Repressive Complex 2. Both global increases and decreases in H3K27me3 have been implicated in a wide range of cancer types. Here, we explore how opposing changes in H3K27me3 contribute to cancer by highlighting its role in two vastly different cancer types; (1) a form of glioma known as diffuse midline glioma H3K27-altered and (2) epithelial ovarian cancer. These two cancers vary widely in the age of onset, sex, associated mutations, and cell and organ type. However, both diffuse midline glioma and ovarian cancer have dysregulation of H3K27 methylation, triggering changes to the cancer cell transcriptome. In diffuse midline glioma, the loss of H3K27 methylation is a primary driving factor in tumorigenesis that promotes glial cell stemness and silences tumor suppressor genes. Conversely, hypermethylation of H3K27 occurs in late-stage epithelial ovarian cancer, which promotes tumor vascularization and tumor cell migration. By using each cancer type as a case study, this review emphasizes the importance of H3K27me3 in cancer while demonstrating that the mechanisms of histone H3 modification and subsequent gene expression changes are not a one-size-fits-all across cancer types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles A. Day
- Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, MN 55912, USA
- Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55902, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Edward H. Hinchcliffe
- Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, MN 55912, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - James P. Robinson
- Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, MN 55912, USA
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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13
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Feng J, Meng X. Histone modification and histone modification-targeted anti-cancer drugs in breast cancer: Fundamentals and beyond. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:946811. [PMID: 36188615 PMCID: PMC9522521 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.946811] [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: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Dysregulated epigenetic enzymes and resultant abnormal epigenetic modifications (EMs) have been suggested to be closely related to tumor occurrence and progression. Histone modifications (HMs) can assist in maintaining genome stability, DNA repair, transcription, and chromatin modulation within breast cancer (BC) cells. In addition, HMs are reversible, dynamic processes involving the associations of different enzymes with molecular compounds. Abnormal HMs (e.g. histone methylation and histone acetylation) have been identified to be tightly related to BC occurrence and development, even though their underlying mechanisms remain largely unclear. EMs are reversible, and as a result, epigenetic enzymes have aroused wide attention as anti-tumor therapeutic targets. At present, treatments to restore aberrant EMs within BC cells have entered preclinical or clinical trials. In addition, no existing studies have comprehensively analyzed aberrant HMs within BC cells; in addition, HM-targeting BC treatments remain to be further investigated. Histone and non-histone protein methylation is becoming an attractive anti-tumor epigenetic therapeutic target; such methylation-related enzyme inhibitors are under development at present. Consequently, the present work focuses on summarizing relevant studies on HMs related to BC and the possible mechanisms associated with abnormal HMs. Additionally, we also aim to analyze existing therapeutic agents together with those drugs approved and tested through pre-clinical and clinical trials, to assess their roles in HMs. Moreover, epi-drugs that target HMT inhibitors and HDAC inhibitors should be tested in preclinical and clinical studies for the treatment of BC. Epi-drugs that target histone methylation (HMT inhibitors) and histone acetylation (HDAC inhibitors) have now entered clinical trials or are approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Therefore, the review covers the difficulties in applying HM-targeting treatments in clinics and proposes feasible approaches for overcoming such difficulties and promoting their use in treating BC cases.
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14
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Thakur C, Qiu Y, Fu Y, Bi Z, Zhang W, Ji H, Chen F. Epigenetics and environment in breast cancer: New paradigms for anti-cancer therapies. Front Oncol 2022; 12:971288. [PMID: 36185256 PMCID: PMC9520778 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.971288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer remains the most frequently diagnosed cancer in women worldwide. Delayed presentation of the disease, late stage at diagnosis, limited therapeutic options, metastasis, and relapse are the major factors contributing to breast cancer mortality. The development and progression of breast cancer is a complex and multi-step process that incorporates an accumulation of several genetic and epigenetic alterations. External environmental factors and internal cellular microenvironmental cues influence the occurrence of these alterations that drives tumorigenesis. Here, we discuss state-of-the-art information on the epigenetics of breast cancer and how environmental risk factors orchestrate major epigenetic events, emphasizing the necessity for a multidisciplinary approach toward a better understanding of the gene-environment interactions implicated in breast cancer. Since epigenetic modifications are reversible and are susceptible to extrinsic and intrinsic stimuli, they offer potential avenues that can be targeted for designing robust breast cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chitra Thakur
- Department of Pathology, Stony Brook Cancer Center, Stony Brook, NY, United States
- Department of Pathology, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| | - Yiran Qiu
- Department of Pathology, Stony Brook Cancer Center, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| | - Yao Fu
- Department of Pathology, Stony Brook Cancer Center, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| | - Zhuoyue Bi
- Department of Pathology, Stony Brook Cancer Center, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| | - Wenxuan Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Stony Brook Cancer Center, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| | - Haoyan Ji
- Department of Pathology, Stony Brook Cancer Center, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| | - Fei Chen
- Department of Pathology, Stony Brook Cancer Center, Stony Brook, NY, United States
- Department of Pathology, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, United States
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15
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Mao XD, Wei X, Xu T, Li TP, Liu KS. Research progress in breast cancer stem cells: characterization and future perspectives. Am J Cancer Res 2022; 12:3208-3222. [PMID: 35968346 PMCID: PMC9360222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
More and more studies have proved that there are a small number of cells with self-renewal and differentiation ability in breast tumors, namely breast cancer stem cells. Such cells play a key role in the initiation, development and migration of breast tumors. The properties of breast tumor stem cells are regulated by a range of intracellular and extracellular factors, including important signaling pathways, transcription factors, non-coding RNAs, and cytokines such as Hedgehog, Wnt, Notch, microRNA93, microRNA100, and IL-6. Tumor microenvironment (such as mesenchymal stem cells, macrophages and cytokines) plays an important role in the regulation of breast tumor stem cells. Using the keywords including "breast cancer stem cells", "signal pathway", "chemotherapy tolerance", and "non-coding RNA", "triple negative breast cancer", "inhibitors", this study retrieved the original articles and reviews published before October 3, 2021, from PubMed and WEB OF SCI database and this study performed a comprehensive review of them. After treatment, there is a correlation between the metastasis-prone nature and recurrence with breast cancer stem cells. The signaling pathway of breast cancer stem cells plays a significant role in activating the function of breast cancer cells, regulating the differentiation of breast cancer cells and controlling the division of breast cancer cells. This imbalance leads to the uncontrolled growth and development of breast cancer cells. Targeted therapy that blocks the corresponding pathway may become a new perspective for breast cancer treatment. In addition, corresponding therapeutic strategies can be used according to the expression characteristics of different molecular types of breast cancer stem cells. For ER-positive breast cancer, simultaneous endocrine therapy and targeted therapy of tumor stem cells may improve the efficacy of endocrine therapy. Trastuzumab therapy significantly reduces the risk of recurrence of HER2-positive breast cancer. For drug-resistant patients, combination therapy is required due to the different phenotypes of epithelial-mesenchymal transforming tumor stem cells. This study briefly reviews the research progress of breast cancer stem cell-related signaling pathways and their inhibitors, in order to provide a reference for breast cancer patients to obtain more effective clinical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Dong Mao
- Department of Endocrinology, Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese MedicineNanjing 210028, Jiangsu, China
- Key Laboratory of TCM Syndrome & Treatment of Yingbing of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese MedicineNanjing 210028, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiao Wei
- Department of Endocrinology, Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese MedicineNanjing 210028, Jiangsu, China
- Key Laboratory of TCM Syndrome & Treatment of Yingbing of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese MedicineNanjing 210028, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tao Xu
- Xi’an Jiaotong University Global Health InstituteXi’an 710049, Shanxi, China
| | - Tai-Ping Li
- Department of Neuro-Psychiatric Institute, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical UniversityNanjing 210029, Jiangsu, China
| | - Kang-Sheng Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Women’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care HospitalNanjing 210029, Jiangsu, China
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16
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H3K27m3 overexpression as a new, BCL2 independent diagnostic tool in follicular and cutaneous follicle center lymphomas. Virchows Arch 2022; 481:489-497. [PMID: 35661922 PMCID: PMC9485181 DOI: 10.1007/s00428-022-03347-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Approximately 15% of follicular lymphomas (FL) lack overexpression of BCL2 and the underlying translocation t(14;18). These cases can be diagnostically challenging, especially regarding follicular hyperplasia (FH). In a subset of FL, mutations in genes encoding for epigenetic modifiers, such as the histone-lysine N-methyltransferase EZH2 (enhancer of zeste homolog 2), were found, which might be used diagnostically. These molecular alterations can lead to an increased tri-methylation of histone H3 at position lysine 27 (H3K27m3) that, in turn, can be visualized immunohistochemically. The aim of this study was to analyze the expression of H3K27m3 in FL, primary cutaneous follicle center lymphomas (PCFCL), and pediatric-type FL (PTFL) in order to investigate its value in the differential diagnosis to FH and other B cell lymphomas and to correlate it to BCL2 expression and the presence of t(14;18). Additionally, the mutational profile of selected cases was considered to address H3K27m3’s potential use as a surrogate parameter for mutations in genes encoding for epigenetic modifiers. Eighty-nine percent of FL and 100% of PCFCL cases overexpressed H3K27m3, independently of BCL2, EZH2, and the presence of mutations. In contrast, 95% of FH and 100% of PTFL cases lacked H3K27m3 overexpression. Other B cell lymphomas considered for differential diagnosis also showed overexpression of H3K27m3 in the majority of cases. In summary, overexpression of H3K27m3 can serve as a new, BCL2 independent marker in the differential diagnosis of FL and PCFCL, but not PTFL, to FH, while being not of help in the differential diagnosis of FL to other B cell lymphomas.
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17
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Genome-wide CRISPR screen identifies PRC2 and KMT2D-COMPASS as regulators of distinct EMT trajectories that contribute differentially to metastasis. Nat Cell Biol 2022; 24:554-564. [PMID: 35411083 PMCID: PMC9037576 DOI: 10.1038/s41556-022-00877-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) programs operate within carcinoma
cells in which they generate phenotypes associated with malignant progression.
In their various manifestations, EMT programs enable epithelial cells to enter
into a series of intermediate states arrayed along the E-M phenotypic spectrum.
At present, we lack a coherent understanding of how carcinoma cells control
their entrance into and continued residence in these various states, and which
of these states favor the process of metastasis. Here, we characterize a layer
of EMT-regulating machinery that governs E-M plasticity (EMP). This machinery
consists of two chromatin-modifying complexes, PRC2 and KMT2D-COMPASS, that
operate as critical regulators to maintain a stable epithelial state.
Interestingly, loss of these two complexes unlocks two distinct EMT
trajectories. Dysfunction of PRC2, but not KMT2D-COMPASS, yields a
quasi-mesenchymal state that is associated with highly metastatic capabilities
and poor survival of breast cancer patients, suggesting great caution should be
applied when PRC2 inhibitors are evaluated clinically in certain patient
cohorts. These observations identify epigenetic factors that regulate E-M
plasticity, determine specific intermediate EMT states and, as a direct
consequence, govern the metastatic ability of carcinoma cells.
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18
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Joshi S, Garlapati C, Aneja R. Epigenetic Determinants of Racial Disparity in Breast Cancer: Looking beyond Genetic Alterations. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14081903. [PMID: 35454810 PMCID: PMC9025441 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14081903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary A substantial disparity in breast cancer incidence and mortality exists between African American (AA) and European American (EA) women. However, the basis for these disparities is poorly understood. In this article, we describe that gene–environment interactions mediated through epigenetic modifications may play a significant role in racial disparities in BC incidence and outcomes. Our in silico analyses and an in-depth literature survey suggest that there exists a significant difference in epigenetic patterns between AA and EA women with breast cancer. Herein, we describe the environmental factors that contribute to these epigenetic changes, which may underlie the disparate racial burden in patients with breast cancer. We suggest that AA women with higher basal epigenetic changes, may have higher pre-disposition to cancer onset, and an aggressive disease course. Pre-existing racial differences in epigenetic profiles of breast tissues raises the possibility of examining these profiles for early diagnosis. Abstract Breast cancer (BC) is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women. Despite advancements in BC screening, prevention, and treatment, BC incidence and mortality remain high among African American (AA) women. Compared with European American (EA) women, AA women tend to be diagnosed with more advanced and aggressive tumors and exhibit worse survival outcomes. Most studies investigating the determinants of racial disparities in BC have focused on genetic factors associated with African ancestry. However, various environmental and social stressors over an individual’s life course can also shape racial stratification in BC. These social and environmental exposures result in long-term changes in gene expression mediated by epigenetic mechanisms. Epigenetics is often portrayed as an intersection of socially patterned stress and genetic expression. The enduring nature of epigenetic changes makes them suitable for studying the effects of different environmental exposures over an individual’s life course on gene expression. The role of differential social and environmental exposures in racial disparities in BC suggests varied epigenetic profiles or signatures associated with specific BC subtypes in AA and EA women. These epigenetic profiles in EA and AA women could be used as biomarkers for early BC diagnosis and disease prognosis and may prove valuable for the development of targeted therapies for BC. This review article discusses the current state of knowledge regarding epigenetic differences between AA and EA women with BC. We also discuss the role of socio-environmental factors, including psychosocial stress, environmental toxicants, and dietary factors, in delineating the different epigenetic profiles in AA and EA patients with BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shriya Joshi
- Department of Biology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA; (S.J.); (C.G.)
| | | | - Ritu Aneja
- Department of Biology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA; (S.J.); (C.G.)
- Department of Clinical and Diagnostics Sciences, School of Health Professions, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
- Correspondence: or
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19
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Epigenetic Factors as Etiological Agents, Diagnostic Markers, and Therapeutic Targets for Luminal Breast Cancer. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10040748. [PMID: 35453496 PMCID: PMC9031900 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10040748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Luminal breast cancer, an etiologically heterogeneous disease, is characterized by high steroid hormone receptor activity and aberrant gene expression profiles. Endocrine therapy and chemotherapy are promising therapeutic approaches to mitigate breast cancer proliferation and recurrence. However, the treatment of therapy-resistant breast cancer is a major challenge. Recent studies on breast cancer etiology have revealed the critical roles of epigenetic factors in luminal breast cancer tumorigenesis and drug resistance. Tumorigenic epigenetic factor-induced aberrant chromatin dynamics dysregulate the onset of gene expression and consequently promote tumorigenesis and metastasis. Epigenetic dysregulation, a type of somatic mutation, is a high-risk factor for breast cancer progression and therapy resistance. Therefore, epigenetic modulators alone or in combination with other therapies are potential therapeutic agents for breast cancer. Several clinical trials have analyzed the therapeutic efficacy of potential epi-drugs for breast cancer and reported beneficial clinical outcomes, including inhibition of tumor cell adhesion and invasiveness and mitigation of endocrine therapy resistance. This review focuses on recent findings on the mechanisms of epigenetic factors in the progression of luminal breast cancer. Additionally, recent findings on the potential of epigenetic factors as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for breast cancer are discussed.
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20
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Aspros KGM, Carter JM, Hoskin TL, Suman VJ, Subramaniam M, Emch MJ, Ye Z, Sun Z, Sinnwell JP, Thompson KJ, Tang X, Rodman EPB, Wang X, Nelson AW, Chernukhin I, Hamdan FH, Bruinsma ES, Carroll JS, Fernandez-Zapico ME, Johnsen SA, Kalari KR, Huang H, Leon-Ferre RA, Couch FJ, Ingle JN, Goetz MP, Hawse JR. Estrogen receptor beta repurposes EZH2 to suppress oncogenic NFκB/p65 signaling in triple negative breast cancer. NPJ Breast Cancer 2022; 8:20. [PMID: 35177654 PMCID: PMC8854734 DOI: 10.1038/s41523-022-00387-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) accounts for 15-20% of all breast cancer cases, yet is responsible for a disproportionately high percentage of breast cancer mortalities. Thus, there is an urgent need to identify novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets based on the molecular events driving TNBC pathobiology. Estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) is known to elicit anti-cancer effects in TNBC, however its mechanisms of action remain elusive. Here, we report the expression profiles of ERβ and its association with clinicopathological features and patient outcomes in the largest cohort of TNBC to date. In this cohort, ERβ was expressed in approximately 18% of TNBCs, and expression of ERβ was associated with favorable clinicopathological features, but correlated with different overall survival outcomes according to menopausal status. Mechanistically, ERβ formed a co-repressor complex involving enhancer of zeste homologue 2/polycomb repressive complex 2 (EZH2/PRC2) that functioned to suppress oncogenic NFκB/RELA (p65) activity. Importantly, p65 was shown to be required for formation of this complex and for ERβ-mediated suppression of TNBC. Our findings indicate that ERβ+ tumors exhibit different characteristics compared to ERβ- tumors and demonstrate that ERβ functions as a molecular switch for EZH2, repurposing it for tumor suppressive activities and repression of oncogenic p65 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten G M Aspros
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Jodi M Carter
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Tanya L Hoskin
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Vera J Suman
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Malayannan Subramaniam
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Michael J Emch
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Zhenqing Ye
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Zhifu Sun
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Jason P Sinnwell
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Kevin J Thompson
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Xiaojia Tang
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Esther P B Rodman
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Xiyin Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Adam W Nelson
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Research Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Igor Chernukhin
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Research Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Feda H Hamdan
- Gene Regulatory Mechanisms and Molecular Epigenetics Lab, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Elizabeth S Bruinsma
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Jason S Carroll
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Research Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Martin E Fernandez-Zapico
- Shulze Center for Novel Therapeutics, Division of Oncology Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Steven A Johnsen
- Gene Regulatory Mechanisms and Molecular Epigenetics Lab, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Krishna R Kalari
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Haojie Huang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
- Department of Urology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | | | - Fergus J Couch
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - James N Ingle
- Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Matthew P Goetz
- Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - John R Hawse
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA.
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21
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Gong Y, Wei C, Cheng L, Ma F, Lu S, Peng Q, Liu L, Wang Y. Tracking the Dynamic Histone Methylation of H3K27 in Live Cancer Cells. ACS Sens 2021; 6:4369-4378. [PMID: 34878766 PMCID: PMC9013700 DOI: 10.1021/acssensors.1c01670] [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] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Histone methylations play a crucial role in chromatin remodeling and genome regulations. However, there is a lack of tools to visualize these histone modifications with high spatiotemporal resolutions in live cells. We have developed a biosensor based on fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) and incorporated it into nucleosomes, capable of monitoring the trimethylation of H3K27 (H3K27me3) in live cells. We also revealed that the performance of the FRET biosensor can be significantly improved by adjusting the linkers within the biosensor. An improved biosensor enables the live-cell imaging of different histone methylation status, induced by the suppressive H3.3K27M or existing in breast cancer cells with varying genetic backgrounds. We have further applied the biosensor to reveal the dynamic coupling between H3K27me3 changes and caspase activity representing the initiation of apoptosis in cancer cells by imaging both H3K27me3 and caspase activity simultaneously in the same live cells. Thus, this new FRET biosensor can provide a powerful tool to visualize the epigenetic regulation in live cells with high spatial temporal resolutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya Gong
- Department of Bioengineering, Institute of Engineering in Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0435, United States
| | - Chujun Wei
- Department of Bioengineering, Institute of Engineering in Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0435, United States
| | - Leonardo Cheng
- Department of Bioengineering, Institute of Engineering in Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0435, United States
| | - Fengyi Ma
- Department of Bioengineering, Institute of Engineering in Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0435, United States
| | - Shaoying Lu
- Department of Bioengineering, Institute of Engineering in Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0435, United States
| | - Qin Peng
- Department of Bioengineering, Institute of Engineering in Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0435, United States
| | - Longwei Liu
- Department of Bioengineering, Institute of Engineering in Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0435, United States
| | - Yingxiao Wang
- Department of Bioengineering, Institute of Engineering in Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0435, United States
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22
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Divergent Effects of EZH1 and EZH2 Protein Expression on the Prognosis of Patients with T-Cell Lymphomas. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9121842. [PMID: 34944658 PMCID: PMC8698684 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9121842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
T-cell lymphomas are highly heterogeneous and their prognosis is poor under the currently available therapies. Enhancers of zeste homologue 1 and 2 (EZH1/2) are histone H3 lysine-27 trimethyltransferases (H3K27me3). Despite the rapid development of new drugs inhibiting EZH2 and/or EZH1, the molecular interplay of these proteins and the impact on disease progression and prognosis of patients with T-cell lymphomas remains insufficiently understood. In this study, EZH1/2 mutation status was evaluated in 33 monomorphic epitheliotropic intestinal T-cell lymphomas by next generation sequencing and EZH1/2 and H3K27me3 protein expression levels were detected by immunohistochemistry in 46 T-cell lymphomas. Correlations with clinicopathologic features were analyzed and survival curves generated. No EZH1 mutations and one (3%) EZH2 missense mutation were identified. In univariable analysis, high EZH1 expression was associated with an improved overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) whereas high EZH2 and H3K27me3 expression were associated with poorer OS and PFS. Multivariable analysis revealed EZH1 (hazard ratio (HR) = 0.183; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.044–0.767; p = 0.020;) and EZH2 (HR = 8.245; 95% CI: 1.898–35.826; p = 0.005) to be independent, divergent prognostic markers for OS. In conclusion, EZH1/2 protein expression had opposing effects on the prognosis of T-cell lymphoma patients.
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23
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Borkiewicz L. Histone 3 Lysine 27 Trimethylation Signature in Breast Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:12853. [PMID: 34884658 PMCID: PMC8657745 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222312853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer development and progression rely on complicated genetic and also epigenetic changes which regulate gene expression without altering the DNA sequence. Epigenetic mechanisms such as DNA methylation, histone modifications, and regulation by lncRNAs alter protein expression by either promoting gene transcription or repressing it. The presence of so-called chromatin modification marks at various gene promoters and gene bodies is associated with normal cell development but also with tumorigenesis and progression of different types of cancer, including the most frequently diagnosed breast cancer. This review is focused on the significance of one of the abundant post-translational modifications of histone 3- trimethylation of lysine 27 (H3K27me3), which was shown to participate in tumour suppressor genes' silencing. Unlike other reviews in the field, here the overview of existing evidence linking H3K27me3 status with breast cancer biology and the tumour outcome is presented especially in the context of diverse breast cancer subtypes. Moreover, the potential of agents that target H3K27me3 for the treatment of this complex disease as well as H3K27 methylation in cross-talk with other chromatin modifications and lncRNAs are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidia Borkiewicz
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-059 Lublin, Poland
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24
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Ruiz TFR, Colleta SJ, Zuccari DAPDC, Vilamaior PSL, Leonel ECR, Taboga SR. Hormone receptor expression in aging mammary tissue and carcinoma from a rodent model after xenoestrogen disruption. Life Sci 2021; 285:120010. [PMID: 34606849 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.120010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Hormone receptors are the main markers applied for prognosis of breast cancer subtypes. Among modulators, exogenous chemical agents known as endocrine disruptors interact with certain receptors, triggering molecular pathways or increasing their expression. Bisphenol A (BPA), a xenoestrogen, interacts with several hormone receptors. Thus, our aim was to characterize the hormone receptor status in the mammary gland (MG) of aged female Mongolian gerbils exposed to BPA in pregnancy and lactation. METHODS We evaluated the expression of receptors for estrogens (ERα and ERβ), progesterone (PR), prolactin (PRL-R), HER2/ErbB2, and androgen (AR) in normal and hyperplastic mammary tissue and in carcinomas developed after BPA exposure. KEY FINDINGS BPA-exposed MG presented increased ERα, whereas ERβ, PR, and PRL-R showed lower expression. AR and HER2/ErbB2 showed similar expression in normal and hyperplastic tissue from control, vehicle, and BPA groups. Both receptors were found in cytoplasm and nucleus in BPA-induced carcinoma. We demonstrate the presence of EZH2 expression, an epigenetic and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) marker, with a high H-score in BPA-exposed MG, which was associated with poor prognosis of cancer. Co-localization of ERα and EZH2 was present in normal and carcinoma features, corroborating the installation of ERα-positive mammary cancer associated with the EMT process. Enhanced EZH2 in BPA-exposed mammary tissue could decrease ERβ expression and promote tumorigenesis progress through HER2/ErbB2. SIGNIFICANCE The present study proposes the Mongolian gerbil as an experimental model for mammary carcinogenesis studies, based on BPA disruption that triggers a phenotype of increased ERα/HER2 positivity and depletion of ERβ/PR expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thalles Fernando Rocha Ruiz
- Department of Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Rua Cristóvão Colombo 2265, Jardim Nazareth, 15054-000 São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Simone Jacovaci Colleta
- Department of Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Rua Cristóvão Colombo 2265, Jardim Nazareth, 15054-000 São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Patrícia Simone Leite Vilamaior
- Department of Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Rua Cristóvão Colombo 2265, Jardim Nazareth, 15054-000 São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ellen Cristina Rivas Leonel
- Department of Histology, Embryology and Cell Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences (ICB III), Federal University of Goiás (UFG), Avenida Esperança, s/n, Campus Samambaia, 74001-970 Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil
| | - Sebastião Roberto Taboga
- Department of Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Rua Cristóvão Colombo 2265, Jardim Nazareth, 15054-000 São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil.
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25
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Li W, Wu H, Sui S, Wang Q, Xu S, Pang D. Targeting Histone Modifications in Breast Cancer: A Precise Weapon on the Way. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:736935. [PMID: 34595180 PMCID: PMC8476812 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.736935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Histone modifications (HMs) contribute to maintaining genomic stability, transcription, DNA repair, and modulating chromatin in cancer cells. Furthermore, HMs are dynamic and reversible processes that involve interactions between numerous enzymes and molecular components. Aberrant HMs are strongly associated with tumorigenesis and progression of breast cancer (BC), although the specific mechanisms are not completely understood. Moreover, there is no comprehensive overview of abnormal HMs in BC, and BC therapies that target HMs are still in their infancy. Therefore, this review summarizes the existing evidence regarding HMs that are involved in BC and the potential mechanisms that are related to aberrant HMs. Moreover, this review examines the currently available agents and approved drugs that have been tested in pre-clinical and clinical studies to evaluate their effects on HMs. Finally, this review covers the barriers to the clinical application of therapies that target HMs, and possible strategies that could help overcome these barriers and accelerate the use of these therapies to cure patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Li
- Harbin Medical University Third Hospital: Tumor Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Hao Wu
- Harbin Medical University Third Hospital: Tumor Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Shiyao Sui
- Harbin Medical University Third Hospital: Tumor Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Qin Wang
- Harbin Medical University Third Hospital: Tumor Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Shouping Xu
- Harbin Medical University Third Hospital: Tumor Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Da Pang
- Harbin Medical University Third Hospital: Tumor Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China.,Heilongjiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Harbin, China
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26
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Llinàs-Arias P, Íñiguez-Muñoz S, McCann K, Voorwerk L, Orozco JIJ, Ensenyat-Mendez M, Sesé B, DiNome ML, Marzese DM. Epigenetic Regulation of Immunotherapy Response in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:4139. [PMID: 34439290 PMCID: PMC8394958 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13164139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is defined by the absence of estrogen receptor and progesterone receptor and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) overexpression. This malignancy, representing 15-20% of breast cancers, is a clinical challenge due to the lack of targeted treatments, higher intrinsic aggressiveness, and worse outcomes than other breast cancer subtypes. Immune checkpoint inhibitors have shown promising efficacy for early-stage and advanced TNBC, but this seems limited to a subgroup of patients. Understanding the underlying mechanisms that determine immunotherapy efficiency is essential to identifying which TNBC patients will respond to immunotherapy-based treatments and help to develop new therapeutic strategies. Emerging evidence supports that epigenetic alterations, including aberrant chromatin architecture conformation and the modulation of gene regulatory elements, are critical mechanisms for immune escape. These alterations are particularly interesting since they can be reverted through the inhibition of epigenetic regulators. For that reason, several recent studies suggest that the combination of epigenetic drugs and immunotherapeutic agents can boost anticancer immune responses. In this review, we focused on the contribution of epigenetics to the crosstalk between immune and cancer cells, its relevance on immunotherapy response in TNBC, and the potential benefits of combined treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pere Llinàs-Arias
- Cancer Epigenetics Laboratory at the Cancer Cell Biology Group, Institut d’Investigació Sanitària Illes Balears (IdISBa), 07120 Palma, Spain; (P.L.-A.); (S.Í.-M.); (M.E.-M.); (B.S.)
| | - Sandra Íñiguez-Muñoz
- Cancer Epigenetics Laboratory at the Cancer Cell Biology Group, Institut d’Investigació Sanitària Illes Balears (IdISBa), 07120 Palma, Spain; (P.L.-A.); (S.Í.-M.); (M.E.-M.); (B.S.)
| | - Kelly McCann
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA;
| | - Leonie Voorwerk
- Division of Tumor Biology & Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Javier I. J. Orozco
- Saint John’s Cancer Institute, Providence Saint John’s Health Center, Santa Monica, CA 90404, USA;
| | - Miquel Ensenyat-Mendez
- Cancer Epigenetics Laboratory at the Cancer Cell Biology Group, Institut d’Investigació Sanitària Illes Balears (IdISBa), 07120 Palma, Spain; (P.L.-A.); (S.Í.-M.); (M.E.-M.); (B.S.)
| | - Borja Sesé
- Cancer Epigenetics Laboratory at the Cancer Cell Biology Group, Institut d’Investigació Sanitària Illes Balears (IdISBa), 07120 Palma, Spain; (P.L.-A.); (S.Í.-M.); (M.E.-M.); (B.S.)
| | - Maggie L. DiNome
- Department of Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University California Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA;
| | - Diego M. Marzese
- Cancer Epigenetics Laboratory at the Cancer Cell Biology Group, Institut d’Investigació Sanitària Illes Balears (IdISBa), 07120 Palma, Spain; (P.L.-A.); (S.Í.-M.); (M.E.-M.); (B.S.)
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27
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Zhang L, Yao J, Wei Y, Zhou Z, Li P, Qu J, Badu-Nkansah A, Yuan X, Huang YW, Fukumura K, Mao X, Chang WC, Saunus J, Lakhani S, Huse JT, Hung MC, Yu D. Blocking immunosuppressive neutrophils deters pY696-EZH2-driven brain metastases. Sci Transl Med 2021; 12:12/545/eaaz5387. [PMID: 32461334 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aaz5387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The functions of immune cells in brain metastases are unclear because the brain has traditionally been considered "immune privileged." However, we found that a subgroup of immunosuppressive neutrophils is recruited into the brain, enabling brain metastasis development. In brain metastatic cells, enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is highly expressed and phosphorylated at tyrosine-696 (pY696)-EZH2 by nuclear-localized Src tyrosine kinase. Phosphorylation of EZH2 at Y696 changes its binding preference from histone H3 to RNA polymerase II, which consequently switches EZH2's function from a methyltransferase to a transcription factor that increases c-JUN expression. c-Jun up-regulates protumorigenic inflammatory cytokines, including granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), which recruits Arg1+- and PD-L1+ immunosuppressive neutrophils into the brain to drive metastasis outgrowth. G-CSF-blocking antibodies or immune checkpoint blockade therapies combined with Src inhibitors impeded brain metastasis in multiple mouse models. These findings indicate that pY696-EZH2 can function as a methyltransferase-independent transcription factor to facilitate the brain infiltration of immunosuppressive neutrophils, which could be clinically targeted for brain metastasis treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Zhang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jun Yao
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Yongkun Wei
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Zhifen Zhou
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Ping Li
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jingkun Qu
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Akosua Badu-Nkansah
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Xiangliang Yuan
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Yu-Wen Huang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Center for Molecular Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Kazutaka Fukumura
- Department of Pathology and Translational Molecular Pathology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Xizeng Mao
- Department of Genomic Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Wei-Chao Chang
- Center for Molecular Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Jodi Saunus
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Sunil Lakhani
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia.,Pathology Queensland, The Royal Brisbane & Women's Hospital, Herston, QLD 4029, Australia
| | - Jason T Huse
- Department of Pathology and Translational Molecular Pathology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Mien-Chie Hung
- Center for Molecular Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Dihua Yu
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA. .,MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Center for Molecular Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
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28
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Inhibition of EZH2 Catalytic Activity Selectively Targets a Metastatic Subpopulation in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Cell Rep 2021; 30:755-770.e6. [PMID: 31968251 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2019.12.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2019] [Revised: 11/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic changes are increasingly being appreciated as key events in breast cancer progression. However, breast cancer subtype-specific epigenetic regulation remains poorly investigated. Here we report that EZH2 is a leading candidate of epigenetic modulators associated with the TNBC subtype and that it predicts poor overall survival in TNBC patients. We demonstrate that specific pharmacological or genetic inhibition of EZH2 catalytic activity impairs distant metastasis. We further define a specific EZH2high population with enhanced invasion, mammosphere formation, and metastatic potential that exhibits marked sensitivity to EZH2 inhibition. Mechanistically, EZH2 inhibition differentiates EZH2high basal cells to a luminal-like phenotype by derepressing GATA3 and renders them sensitive to endocrine therapy. Furthermore, dissection of human TNBC heterogeneity shows that EZH2high basal-like 1 and mesenchymal subtypes have exquisite sensitivity to EZH2 inhibition compared with the EZH2low luminal androgen receptor subtype. These preclinical findings provide a rationale for clinical development of EZH2 as a targeted therapy against TNBC metastasis.
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29
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Noncanonical Functions of the Polycomb Group Protein EZH2 in Breast Cancer. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2021; 191:774-783. [PMID: 33556366 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2021.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Enhancer of Zeste Homologue 2 (EZH2) is the catalytic subunit of the polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) that is critical for determining cell identity. An epigenetic writer, EZH2 has a well-defined role in transcriptional repression by depositing trimethyl marks on lysine 27 of histone H3. However, there is mounting evidence that histone methyltransferases like EZH2 exert histone methyltransferase-independent functions. The relevance of these functions to breast cancer progression and their regulatory mechanisms are only beginning to become understood. Here, we review the current understanding of EZH2 H3K27me3-independent, noncanonical, functions and their regulation in breast cancer.
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30
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Mukherjee S, Adhikary S, Gadad SS, Mondal P, Sen S, Choudhari R, Singh V, Adhikari S, Mandal P, Chaudhuri S, Sengupta A, Lakshmanaswamy R, Chakrabarti P, Roy S, Das C. Suppression of poised oncogenes by ZMYND8 promotes chemo-sensitization. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:1073. [PMID: 33323928 PMCID: PMC7738522 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-03129-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The major challenge in chemotherapy lies in the gain of therapeutic resistance properties of cancer cells. The relatively small fraction of chemo-resistant cancer cells outgrows and are responsible for tumor relapse, with acquired invasiveness and stemness. We demonstrate that zinc-finger MYND type-8 (ZMYND8), a putative chromatin reader, suppresses stemness, drug resistance, and tumor-promoting genes, which are hallmarks of cancer. Reinstating ZMYND8 suppresses chemotherapeutic drug doxorubicin-induced tumorigenic potential (at a sublethal dose) and drug resistance, thereby resetting the transcriptional program of cells to the epithelial state. The ability of ZMYND8 to chemo-sensitize doxorubicin-treated metastatic breast cancer cells by downregulating tumor-associated genes was further confirmed by transcriptome analysis. Interestingly, we observed that ZMYND8 overexpression in doxorubicin-treated cells stimulated those involved in a good prognosis in breast cancer. Consistently, sensitizing the cancer cells with ZMYND8 followed by doxorubicin treatment led to tumor regression in vivo and revert back the phenotypes associated with drug resistance and stemness. Intriguingly, ZMYND8 modulates the bivalent or poised oncogenes through its association with KDM5C and EZH2, thereby chemo-sensitizing the cells to chemotherapy for better disease-free survival. Collectively, our findings indicate that poised chromatin is instrumental for the acquisition of chemo-resistance by cancer cells and propose ZMYND8 as a suitable epigenetic tool that can re-sensitize the chemo-refractory breast carcinoma.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology
- Breast Neoplasms/drug therapy
- Breast Neoplasms/genetics
- Breast Neoplasms/pathology
- Carcinogenesis/drug effects
- Carcinogenesis/genetics
- Carcinogenesis/pathology
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Cell Movement/drug effects
- Cell Movement/genetics
- Down-Regulation/drug effects
- Down-Regulation/genetics
- Doxorubicin/pharmacology
- Doxorubicin/therapeutic use
- Drug Resistance, Neoplasm/drug effects
- Drug Resistance, Neoplasm/genetics
- Enhancer of Zeste Homolog 2 Protein/metabolism
- Epigenesis, Genetic/drug effects
- Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition/drug effects
- Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition/genetics
- Female
- Gene Expression Profiling
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic/drug effects
- Genome, Human
- Histone Demethylases/metabolism
- Humans
- Mice, Inbred BALB C
- Mice, Nude
- Neoplastic Stem Cells/metabolism
- Neoplastic Stem Cells/pathology
- Oncogenes
- Phenotype
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Treatment Outcome
- Triple Negative Breast Neoplasms/drug therapy
- Triple Negative Breast Neoplasms/genetics
- Triple Negative Breast Neoplasms/pathology
- Tumor Suppressor Proteins/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Shravanti Mukherjee
- Biophysics and Structural Genomics Division, Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, 1/AF Bidhannagar, Kolkata, 700064, India
| | - Santanu Adhikary
- Biophysics and Structural Genomics Division, Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, 1/AF Bidhannagar, Kolkata, 700064, India
- Structural Biology and Bioinformatics Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, 4 Raja S.C. Mullick Road, Kolkata, 700032, India
| | - Shrikanth S Gadad
- Center of Emphasis in Cancer, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, TX, 79905, USA
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, TX, 79905, USA
- Cecil H. and Ida Green Center for Reproductive Biology Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Payel Mondal
- Biophysics and Structural Genomics Division, Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, 1/AF Bidhannagar, Kolkata, 700064, India
- Homi Bhaba National Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - Sabyasachi Sen
- Biophysics and Structural Genomics Division, Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, 1/AF Bidhannagar, Kolkata, 700064, India
| | - Ramesh Choudhari
- Center of Emphasis in Cancer, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, TX, 79905, USA
- Shri B. M. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, BLDE (Deemed to be University), Vijayapura, Karnataka, 586103, India
| | - Vipin Singh
- Biophysics and Structural Genomics Division, Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, 1/AF Bidhannagar, Kolkata, 700064, India
- Homi Bhaba National Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - Swagata Adhikari
- Biophysics and Structural Genomics Division, Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, 1/AF Bidhannagar, Kolkata, 700064, India
- Homi Bhaba National Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - Pratiti Mandal
- Cell Biology and Physiology Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, 4 Raja S.C. Mullick Road, Kolkata, 700032, India
| | - Soumi Chaudhuri
- Biophysics and Structural Genomics Division, Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, 1/AF Bidhannagar, Kolkata, 700064, India
| | - Amrita Sengupta
- Biophysics and Structural Genomics Division, Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, 1/AF Bidhannagar, Kolkata, 700064, India
| | - Rajkumar Lakshmanaswamy
- Center of Emphasis in Cancer, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, TX, 79905, USA
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, TX, 79905, USA
| | - Partha Chakrabarti
- Cell Biology and Physiology Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, 4 Raja S.C. Mullick Road, Kolkata, 700032, India
| | - Siddhartha Roy
- Structural Biology and Bioinformatics Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, 4 Raja S.C. Mullick Road, Kolkata, 700032, India
| | - Chandrima Das
- Biophysics and Structural Genomics Division, Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, 1/AF Bidhannagar, Kolkata, 700064, India.
- Homi Bhaba National Institute, Mumbai, India.
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31
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Yang AY, Choi EB, So Park M, Kim SK, Park MS, Kim MY. PARP1 and PRC2 double deficiency promotes BRCA-proficient breast cancer growth by modification of the tumor microenvironment. FEBS J 2020; 288:2888-2910. [PMID: 33205541 DOI: 10.1111/febs.15636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP1) and polycomb-repressive complex 2 (PRC2) are each known for their individual roles in cancer, but their cooperative roles have only been studied in the DNA damage repair process in the context of BRCA-mutant cancers. Here, we show that simultaneous inhibition of PARP1 and PRC2 in the MDA-MB-231 BRCA-proficient triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cell line leads to a synthetic viability independent of the mechanisms of DNA damage repair. Specifically, we find that either genetic depletion or pharmacological inhibition of both PARP1 and PRC2 can accelerate tumor growth rate. We attribute this to modifications in the tumor microenvironment (TME) that are induced by double-depleted breast cancer cells, such as promoting intratumoral angiogenesis and increasing the proportion of tumor-promoting type 2 (M2) macrophages. These changes subsequently inhibit cell death and promote proliferation. Mechanistically, we find that PARP1 and PRC2 double depletion induces not only a basal activation of the NF-κB pathway but also a maximal activation of NF-κB within the TME in response to external stimuli such as hypoxia and the presence of macrophages. In summary, our study reveals an unprecedented synthetic viable interaction between PARP1 and PRC2 in BRCA-proficient TNBC and identifies NF-κB as the downstream mediator. DATABASE: RNA-seq data are available in the GEO databases under the accession GSE142769.
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Affiliation(s)
- A-Yeong Yang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Korea
| | - Eun-Bee Choi
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.,Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Mi So Park
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Korea
| | - Seon-Kyu Kim
- Personalized Genomic Medicine Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience & Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Korea
| | - Min-Seok Park
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Korea
| | - Mi-Young Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Korea.,KAIST Institute for the BioCentury, Cancer Metastasis Control Center, Daejeon, Korea
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32
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Vougiouklakis T, Bernard BJ, Nigam N, Burkitt K, Nakamura Y, Saloura V. Clinicopathologic significance of protein lysine methyltransferases in cancer. Clin Epigenetics 2020; 12:146. [PMID: 33050946 PMCID: PMC7557092 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-020-00897-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein lysine methyltransferases (PKMTs) constitute a large family of approximately 50 chromatin modifiers that mono-, di- and/or tri-methylate lysine residues on histone and non-histone substrates. With the advent of The Cancer Genome Atlas, it became apparent that this family of chromatin modifiers harbors frequent genetic and expression alterations in multiple types of cancer. In this regard, past and ongoing preclinical studies have provided insight into the mechanisms of action of some of these enzymes, laying the ground for the ongoing development of PKMT inhibitors as novel anticancer therapeutics. The purpose of this review is to summarize existing data obtained by different research groups through immunohistochemical analysis of the protein expression levels of PKMTs, and their respective clinicopathologic associations. We focused on studies that used immunohistochemistry to associate protein expression levels of specific PKMTs, as well as several established histone methylation marks, with clinicopathologic features and survival outcomes in various cancer types. We also review ongoing clinical trials of PKMT inhibitors in cancer treatment. This review underscores the clinical relevance and potential of targeting the family of PKMT enzymes as the next generation of cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Benjamin J Bernard
- Thoracic and GI Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, 41 Medlars Drive, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Nupur Nigam
- Thoracic and GI Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, 41 Medlars Drive, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Kyunghee Burkitt
- Thoracic and GI Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, 41 Medlars Drive, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Yusuke Nakamura
- Cancer Precision Medicine Research Center, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Koto, Japan
| | - Vassiliki Saloura
- Thoracic and GI Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, 41 Medlars Drive, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
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Reduction of Global H3K27me 3 Enhances HER2/ErbB2 Targeted Therapy. Cell Rep 2020; 29:249-257.e8. [PMID: 31597089 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2019.08.105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Revised: 07/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) targeting the oncogenic receptor tyrosine kinase ERBB2/HER2, such as Trastuzumab, are the standard of care therapy for breast cancers driven by ERBB2 overexpression and activation. However, a substantial proportion of patients exhibit de novo resistance. Here, by comparing matched Trastuzumab-naive and post-treatment patient samples from a neoadjuvant trial, we link resistance with elevation of H3K27me3, a repressive histone modification catalyzed by polycomb repressor complex 2 (PRC2). In ErbB2+ breast cancer models, PRC2 silences endogenous retroviruses (ERVs) to suppress anti-tumor type-I interferon (IFN) responses. In patients, elevated H3K27me3 in tumor cells following Trastuzumab treatment correlates with suppression of interferon-driven viral defense gene expression signatures and poor response. Using an immunocompetent model, we provide evidence that EZH2 inhibitors promote interferon-driven immune responses that enhance the efficacy of anti-ErbB2 mAbs, suggesting the potential clinical benefit of epigenomic reprogramming by H3K27me3 depletion in Trastuzumab-resistant disease.
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COCOA: coordinate covariation analysis of epigenetic heterogeneity. Genome Biol 2020; 21:240. [PMID: 32894181 PMCID: PMC7487606 DOI: 10.1186/s13059-020-02139-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
A key challenge in epigenetics is to determine the biological significance of epigenetic variation among individuals. We present Coordinate Covariation Analysis (COCOA), a computational framework that uses covariation of epigenetic signals across individuals and a database of region sets to annotate epigenetic heterogeneity. COCOA is the first such tool for DNA methylation data and can also analyze any epigenetic signal with genomic coordinates. We demonstrate COCOA’s utility by analyzing DNA methylation, ATAC-seq, and multi-omic data in supervised and unsupervised analyses, showing that COCOA provides new understanding of inter-sample epigenetic variation. COCOA is available on Bioconductor (http://bioconductor.org/packages/COCOA).
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Jeon SA, Kim DW, Lee DB, Cho JY. NEDD4 Plays Roles in the Maintenance of Breast Cancer Stem Cell Characteristics. Front Oncol 2020; 10:1680. [PMID: 33014839 PMCID: PMC7509455 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.01680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive type with poor prognosis among the breast cancers and has a high population of cancer stem cells (CSCs), which are the main target to cure and inhibit TNBC. In this study, we examined the role of neural precursor cell expressed developmentally downregulated protein 4 (NEDD4) in the proliferation, migration, and CSC characteristics of MDA-MB-231, a TNBC cell line. Interestingly, the Kaplan–Meier plotter showed that the survival rate of patients with a higher expression level of NEDD4 was significantly shorter than those of patients with a lower expression only in relatively aggressive and higher stage (grade 3) breast cancer patients. The knockdown of NEDD4 drastically decreased the proliferation, migration, and mammosphere formation in MDA-MB-231 cells. A proteomic analysis revealed the alteration of CSC-related proteins; notably, Myc targets stem cell-like signatures in siNEDD4-treated MDA-MB-231. An immunoassay also showed that the expression and the activity of breast CSC markers are decreased in NEDD4-deleted MDA-MB-231. Taken together, these results indicate that NEDD4 is involved in the maintenance of populations and characteristics of breast CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seon-Ae Jeon
- Department of Veterinary Biochemistry, BK21 Plus and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, School of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Dong Wook Kim
- Department of Veterinary Biochemistry, BK21 Plus and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, School of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Da-Bin Lee
- Department of Veterinary Biochemistry, BK21 Plus and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, School of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Je-Yoel Cho
- Department of Veterinary Biochemistry, BK21 Plus and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, School of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
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36
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Epigenetic Mechanisms of Resistance to Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10071061. [PMID: 32708698 PMCID: PMC7407667 DOI: 10.3390/biom10071061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have demonstrated to be highly efficient in treating solid tumors; however, many patients have limited benefits in terms of response and survival. This rapidly led to the investigation of combination therapies to enhance response rates. Moreover, predictive biomarkers were assessed to better select patients. Although PD-L1 expression remains the only validated marker in clinics, molecular profiling has brought valuable information, showing that the tumor mutation load and microsatellite instability (MSI) status were associated to higher response rates in nearly all cancer types. Moreover, in lung cancer, EGFR and MET mutations, oncogene fusions or STK11 inactivating mutations were associated with low response rates. Cancer progression towards invasive phenotypes that impede immune surveillance relies on complex regulatory networks and cell interactions within the tumor microenvironment. Epigenetic modifications, such as the alteration of histone patterns, chromatin structure, DNA methylation status at specific promoters and changes in microRNA levels, may alter the cell phenotype and reshape the tumor microenvironment, allowing cells to grow and escape from immune surveillance. The objective of this review is to make an update on the identified epigenetic changes that target immune surveillance and, ultimately, ICI responses, such as histone marks, DNA methylation and miR signatures. Translational studies or clinical trials, when available, and potential epigenetic biomarkers will be discussed as perspectives in the context of combination treatment strategies to enhance ICI responses in patients with solid tumors.
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37
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Huang T, Song X, Xu D, Tiek D, Goenka A, Wu B, Sastry N, Hu B, Cheng SY. Stem cell programs in cancer initiation, progression, and therapy resistance. Am J Cancer Res 2020; 10:8721-8743. [PMID: 32754274 PMCID: PMC7392012 DOI: 10.7150/thno.41648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 190] [Impact Index Per Article: 47.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the past few decades, substantial evidence has convincingly revealed the existence of cancer stem cells (CSCs) as a minor subpopulation in cancers, contributing to an aberrantly high degree of cellular heterogeneity within the tumor. CSCs are functionally defined by their abilities of self-renewal and differentiation, often in response to cues from their microenvironment. Biological phenotypes of CSCs are regulated by the integrated transcriptional, post-transcriptional, metabolic, and epigenetic regulatory networks. CSCs contribute to tumor progression, therapeutic resistance, and disease recurrence through their sustained proliferation, invasion into normal tissue, promotion of angiogenesis, evasion of the immune system, and resistance to conventional anticancer therapies. Therefore, elucidation of the molecular mechanisms that drive cancer stem cell maintenance, plasticity, and therapeutic resistance will enhance our ability to improve the effectiveness of targeted therapies for CSCs. In this review, we highlight the key features and mechanisms that regulate CSC function in tumor initiation, progression, and therapy resistance. We discuss factors for CSC therapeutic resistance, such as quiescence, induction of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and resistance to DNA damage-induced cell death. We evaluate therapeutic approaches for eliminating therapy-resistant CSC subpopulations, including anticancer drugs that target key CSC signaling pathways and cell surface markers, viral therapies, the awakening of quiescent CSCs, and immunotherapy. We also assess the impact of new technologies, such as single-cell sequencing and CRISPR-Cas9 screening, on the investigation of the biological properties of CSCs. Moreover, challenges remain to be addressed in the coming years, including experimental approaches for investigating CSCs and obstacles in therapeutic targeting of CSCs.
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Simond AM, Muller WJ. In vivo modeling of the EGFR family in breast cancer progression and therapeutic approaches. Adv Cancer Res 2020; 147:189-228. [PMID: 32593401 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acr.2020.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Modeling breast cancer through the generation of genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs) has become the gold standard in the study of human breast cancer. Notably, the in vivo modeling of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) family has been key to the development of therapeutics and has helped better understand the signaling pathways involved in cancer initiation, progression and metastasis. The HER2/ErbB2 receptor is a member of the EGFR family and 20% of breast cancers are found to belong in the HER2-positive histological subtype. Historical and more recent advances in the field have shaped our understanding of HER2-positive breast cancer signaling and therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra M Simond
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Center, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada; Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - William J Muller
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Center, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada; Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada; Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
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39
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Nandy D, Rajam SM, Dutta D. A three layered histone epigenetics in breast cancer metastasis. Cell Biosci 2020; 10:52. [PMID: 32257110 PMCID: PMC7106732 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-020-00415-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Thanks to the advancement in science and technology and a significant number of cancer research programs being carried out throughout the world, the prevention, prognosis and treatment of breast cancer are improving with a positive and steady pace. However, a stern thoughtful attention is required for the metastatic breast cancer cases—the deadliest of all types of breast cancer, with a character of relapse even when treated. In an effort to explore the less travelled avenues, we summarize here studies underlying the aspects of histone epigenetics in breast cancer metastasis. Authoritative reviews on breast cancer epigenetics are already available; however, there is an urgent need to focus on the epigenetics involved in metastatic character of this cancer. Here we put forward a comprehensive review on how different layers of histone epigenetics comprising of histone chaperones, histone variants and histone modifications interplay to create breast cancer metastasis landscape. Finally, we propose a hypothesis of integrating histone-epigenetic factors as biomarkers that encompass different breast cancer subtypes and hence could be exploited as a target of larger population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debparna Nandy
- Regenerative Biology Program, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thycaud PO, Poojappura, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695014 India
| | - Sruthy Manuraj Rajam
- Regenerative Biology Program, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thycaud PO, Poojappura, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695014 India
| | - Debasree Dutta
- Regenerative Biology Program, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thycaud PO, Poojappura, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695014 India
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40
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Fontes-Sousa M, Lobo J, Lobo S, Salta S, Amorim M, Lopes P, Antunes L, de Sousa SP, Henrique R, Jerónimo C. Digital imaging-assisted quantification of H3K27me3 immunoexpression in luminal A/B-like, HER2-negative, invasive breast cancer predicts patient survival and risk of recurrence. Mol Med 2020; 26:22. [PMID: 32050892 PMCID: PMC7017542 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-020-0147-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Breast cancer (BC) is a major health concern and better understanding of its biology might improve treatment decisions and patient outcomes. Histone3 Lysine27 tri-methylation (H3K27me3) is a post-translational histone modification frequently associated with altered gene expression. In BC patients, lower H3K27me3 expression has been associated with worse prognosis. We assessed H3K27me3 immunoexpression with digital imaging software assistance, in a cohort of luminal-like BC patients with long-term follow-up time and evaluated its association with clinically relevant endpoints and its clinical usefulness. Methods H3K27me3 immunoexpression was assessed, by means of digital-imaging system, in archival tissue samples of 160 luminal A/B-like HER2-negative invasive BC, stages I-III. Survival analysis was performed using Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression. Cases were categorized as ‘low’ or ‘high’ expression based on cut-off defined by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Results The patient cohort showed a median age of 61-years, with a median follow-up time of 11.7 years. Low H3K27me3 expression (below 85% cut-off) was significantly associated with recurrence, both in univariable (HR = 1.99, 95%CI 1.066–3.724) and multivariable analysis when adjusting for grade and age (HR = 1.89, 95%CI 1.004–3.559). A trend for higher risk of death in low H3K27me3 expression BC was observed (p = 0.069), reaching statistical significance in younger patients (p = 0.021). Conclusions H3K27me3 immunoexpression assessed by digital imaging scoring software is an independent prognosis biomarker in luminal-like BC patients and may assist in more individualized adjuvant treatment decisions, thus potentially reducing recurrences after curative-intent treatment, while sparing unnecessary toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mário Fontes-Sousa
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, IPO Porto Research Center (CI-IPOP), Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Porto (IPO Porto), Research Center-LAB 3, F Bdg., 1st floor, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal.,Department of Medical Oncology, Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - João Lobo
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, IPO Porto Research Center (CI-IPOP), Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Porto (IPO Porto), Research Center-LAB 3, F Bdg., 1st floor, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal.,Department of Pathology, Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar - University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Porto, Portugal
| | - Silvana Lobo
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, IPO Porto Research Center (CI-IPOP), Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Porto (IPO Porto), Research Center-LAB 3, F Bdg., 1st floor, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sofia Salta
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, IPO Porto Research Center (CI-IPOP), Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Porto (IPO Porto), Research Center-LAB 3, F Bdg., 1st floor, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria Amorim
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, IPO Porto Research Center (CI-IPOP), Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Porto (IPO Porto), Research Center-LAB 3, F Bdg., 1st floor, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal
| | - Paula Lopes
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, IPO Porto Research Center (CI-IPOP), Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Porto (IPO Porto), Research Center-LAB 3, F Bdg., 1st floor, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal.,Department of Pathology, Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Luís Antunes
- Department of Epidemiology, Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Susana Palma de Sousa
- Department of Medical Oncology, Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Rui Henrique
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, IPO Porto Research Center (CI-IPOP), Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Porto (IPO Porto), Research Center-LAB 3, F Bdg., 1st floor, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal.,Department of Pathology, Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar - University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Porto, Portugal
| | - Carmen Jerónimo
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, IPO Porto Research Center (CI-IPOP), Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Porto (IPO Porto), Research Center-LAB 3, F Bdg., 1st floor, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal. .,Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar - University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Porto, Portugal.
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Ma A, Stratikopoulos E, Park KS, Wei J, Martin TC, Yang X, Schwarz M, Leshchenko V, Rialdi A, Dale B, Lagana A, Guccione E, Parekh S, Parsons R, Jin J. Discovery of a first-in-class EZH2 selective degrader. Nat Chem Biol 2020; 16:214-222. [PMID: 31819273 PMCID: PMC6982609 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-019-0421-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 10/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is the main enzymatic subunit of the PRC2 complex, which catalyzes trimethylation of histone H3 lysine 27 (H3K27me3) to promote transcriptional silencing. EZH2 is overexpressed in multiple types of cancer including triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), and high expression levels correlate with poor prognosis. Several EZH2 inhibitors, which inhibit the methyltransferase activity of EZH2, have shown promise in treating sarcoma and follicular lymphoma in clinics. However, EZH2 inhibitors are ineffective at blocking proliferation of TNBC cells, even though they effectively reduce the H3K27me3 mark. Using a hydrophobic tagging approach, we generated MS1943, a first-in-class EZH2 selective degrader that effectively reduces EZH2 levels in cells. Importantly, MS1943 has a profound cytotoxic effect in multiple TNBC cells, while sparing normal cells, and is efficacious in vivo, suggesting that pharmacologic degradation of EZH2 can be advantageous for treating the cancers that are dependent on EZH2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anqi Ma
- Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutics Discovery, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Elias Stratikopoulos
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kwang-Su Park
- Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutics Discovery, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jieli Wei
- Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutics Discovery, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Tiphaine C Martin
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Xiaobao Yang
- Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutics Discovery, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Megan Schwarz
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Violetta Leshchenko
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alexander Rialdi
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Brandon Dale
- Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutics Discovery, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alessandro Lagana
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Institute for Next Generation Healthcare, Icahn Institute for Data Science and Genomic Technology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ernesto Guccione
- Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutics Discovery, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Samir Parekh
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ramon Parsons
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Jian Jin
- Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutics Discovery, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
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42
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Mollah SA, Subramaniam S. Histone Signatures Predict Therapeutic Efficacy in Breast Cancer. IEEE OPEN JOURNAL OF ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1:74-82. [PMID: 32412527 PMCID: PMC7207876 DOI: 10.1109/ojemb.2020.2967105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2019] [Revised: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: Regulatory abnormalities caused by chromatin modifications are being increasingly recognized as contributors to cancer. While many molecularly targeted drugs have the potential to revert these modifications, their precise mechanism of action in cellular reprogramming is not known. Methods: To address this, we introduce an integrated phosphoprotein-histone-drug network (iPhDNet) approach to generate “global chromatin fingerprints of histone signatures.” The method integrates proteomic/phosphoproteomic, transcriptomic and regulatory genomic data to provide a causal mechanistic network and histone signatures of drug response. Results: We demonstrate the utility of iPhDNet in identifying H3K27me3K36me3 histone mark as a key fingerprint of response, mediated by chromatin remodelers BRD4, NSD3, EZH2, and a proto-oncogene MYC when treated with CDK inhibitors. Conclusions: We construct a regulatory network of breast cancer response to treatment and show that histone H3K27me3K36me3 status changes, driven by the BRD4/MYC pathway, upon treatment with drugs are hallmarks of response to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shamim A Mollah
- 11Bioinformatics & Systems Biology ProgramThe University of California San DiegoLa JollaCA92093USA
| | - Shankar Subramaniam
- 33Departments of Bioengineering, Cellular & Molecular Medicine and Computer Science & EngineeringThe University of California San DiegoLa JollaCA92093USA
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Hsieh IY, He J, Wang L, Lin B, Liang Z, Lu B, Chen W, Lu G, Li F, Lv W, Zhao W, Li J. H3K27me3 loss plays a vital role in CEMIP mediated carcinogenesis and progression of breast cancer with poor prognosis. Biomed Pharmacother 2019; 123:109728. [PMID: 31846842 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2019.109728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2019] [Revised: 11/13/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND H3K27me3 modification inactivates gene transcription by resulting in condensed chromatin. However, the landscape and biological functions of H3K27me3 in breast cancer remain unclear. METHODS Fluorescence enzyme assay was used to analyze the cell proliferation. Transwell assay was used to test the ability of migration and invasion in MDA-MB-231 cells with designed treatment. Transfection of exogenous plasmid was used to intervene specific gene expression. Nude mouse tumor xenograft model was employed to detect the effect of GSKJ-4 in vivo. ChIP-Seq analyzed the modification state of H3K27me3 around the TSS of the gene CEMIP. RNA-Seq was used to analyze the mRNA levels after treating with GSKJ-4 in MDA-MB-231 cells. RESULTS Loss of H3K27me3 is specific for aggressive subtypes of breast cancer and may be a useful diagnostic marker. Epigenetic chemical screening identified histone H3K27me3 demethylation inhibition as a therapeutic strategy for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Functional studies and RNA-seq/ChIP-seq data revealed that inactivation of the protein CEMIP (which is translated by oncogene KIAA1199) by increasing H3K27me3 leads to decreased tumor cell growth and migration. Moreover, survival analysis showed that CEMIP was associated with poor outcome in TNBC. CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest H3K27me3 loss as an important event in CEMIP mediated breast cancer carcinogenesis and progression. Loss of H3K27me3 is specific for aggressive subtypes of breast cancer and may be a useful diagnostic marker.
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Affiliation(s)
- I-Yun Hsieh
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jincan He
- RNA Biomedical Institute, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China; Key Laboratory of Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering (Sun Yat-Sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Li Wang
- RNA Biomedical Institute, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China; Key Laboratory of Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering (Sun Yat-Sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Bo Lin
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhen Liang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Childrens Medical Center, Guangzhou, 510623, China
| | - Bing Lu
- RNA Biomedical Institute, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China; Key Laboratory of Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering (Sun Yat-Sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Weixin Chen
- RNA Biomedical Institute, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China; Key Laboratory of Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering (Sun Yat-Sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Guohao Lu
- RNA Biomedical Institute, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China; Key Laboratory of Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering (Sun Yat-Sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Fuxi Li
- RNA Biomedical Institute, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China; Key Laboratory of Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering (Sun Yat-Sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Weiming Lv
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Wei Zhao
- RNA Biomedical Institute, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China; Key Laboratory of Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering (Sun Yat-Sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
| | - Jie Li
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
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44
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Wong KM, Song J, Saini V, Wong YH. Small Molecules as Drugs to Upregulate Metastasis Suppressors in Cancer Cells. Curr Med Chem 2019; 26:5876-5899. [PMID: 29788870 DOI: 10.2174/0929867325666180522090842] [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: 01/04/2018] [Revised: 03/20/2018] [Accepted: 05/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
It is well-recognized that the majority of cancer-related deaths is attributed to metastasis, which can arise from virtually any type of tumor. Metastasis is a complex multistep process wherein cancer cells must break away from the primary tumor, intravasate into the circulatory or lymphatic systems, extravasate, proliferate and eventually colonize secondary sites. Since these molecular processes involve the coordinated actions of numerous proteins, targeted disruptions of key players along these pathways represent possible therapeutic interventions to impede metastasis formation and reduce cancer mortality. A diverse group of proteins with demonstrated ability to inhibit metastatic colonization have been identified and they are collectively known as metastasis suppressors. Given that the metastasis suppressors are often downregulated in tumors, drug-induced re-expression or upregulation of these proteins represents a promising approach to limit metastasis. Indeed, over 40 compounds are known to exhibit efficacy in upregulating the expression of metastasis suppressors via transcriptional or post-transcriptional mechanisms, and the most promising ones are being evaluated for their translational potentials. These small molecules range from natural products to drugs in clinical use and they apparently target different molecular pathways, reflecting the diverse nature of the metastasis suppressors. In this review, we provide an overview of the different classes of compounds known to possess the ability to upregulate one or more metastasis suppressors, with an emphasis on their mechanisms of action and therapeutic potentials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ka Ming Wong
- Division of Life Science and the Biotechnology Research Institute, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Jiaxing Song
- Division of Life Science and the Biotechnology Research Institute, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Vasu Saini
- Division of Life Science and the Biotechnology Research Institute, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Yung H Wong
- Division of Life Science and the Biotechnology Research Institute, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong.,State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, and the Molecular Neuroscience Center, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Science, Disease and Drug Development, HKUST Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, China
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45
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Tsai CC, Chien MN, Chang YC, Lee JJ, Dai SH, Cheng SP. Overexpression of Histone H3 Lysine 27 Trimethylation Is Associated with Aggressiveness and Dedifferentiation of Thyroid Cancer. Endocr Pathol 2019; 30:305-311. [PMID: 31396854 DOI: 10.1007/s12022-019-09586-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
A variety of epigenetic dysregulations are observed in thyroid malignancies. EZH2, the catalytic subunit of polycomb repressive complex 2, is upregulated in advanced thyroid cancers. EZH2 can catalyze trimethylation of histone H3 at lysine 27 (H3K27me3) and contribute to transcriptional silencing of target genes. Here, we investigated the immunohistochemical expression of H3K27me3 in neoplastic and normal thyroid tissues. Normal thyroid epithelial cells typically exhibited nuclear staining of moderate intensity. A similar expression pattern was observed in nodular goiters and follicular adenomas. By contrast, strong H3K27me3 expression was evident in 80% (8/10) lymphocytic thyroiditis, 63% (80/127) papillary thyroid cancer, 41% (7/17) follicular thyroid cancer, and 73% (8/11) poorly differentiated and anaplastic thyroid cancer. In differentiated thyroid cancer, strong H3K27me3 expression was associated with extrathyroidal extension (p < 0.001), lymphovascular invasion (p = 0.029), lymph node metastasis (p = 0.006), and higher risk of recurrence (p = 0.003). Our results indicate that H3K27me3 overexpression may be implicated in aggressiveness and dedifferentiation of thyroid cancer. In addition to prognostication, the predictive value of H3K27me3 expression deserves further investigation given the recent development of epigenetic targeting agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Chi Tsai
- Department of Surgery, MacKay Memorial Hospital and Mackay Medical College, 92, Section 2, Chung-Shan North Road, Taipei, 10449, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Nan Chien
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, MacKay Memorial Hospital and Mackay Medical College, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yuan-Ching Chang
- Department of Surgery, MacKay Memorial Hospital and Mackay Medical College, 92, Section 2, Chung-Shan North Road, Taipei, 10449, Taiwan
| | - Jie-Jen Lee
- Department of Surgery, MacKay Memorial Hospital and Mackay Medical College, 92, Section 2, Chung-Shan North Road, Taipei, 10449, Taiwan
| | - Shuen-Han Dai
- Department of Pathology, MacKay Memorial Hospital and Mackay Medical College, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Ping Cheng
- Department of Surgery, MacKay Memorial Hospital and Mackay Medical College, 92, Section 2, Chung-Shan North Road, Taipei, 10449, Taiwan.
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.
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46
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Mortimer T, Wainwright EN, Patel H, Siow BM, Jaunmuktane Z, Brandner S, Scaffidi P. Redistribution of EZH2 promotes malignant phenotypes by rewiring developmental programmes. EMBO Rep 2019; 20:e48155. [PMID: 31468686 PMCID: PMC6776892 DOI: 10.15252/embr.201948155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2019] [Revised: 08/05/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic regulators are often hijacked by cancer cells to sustain malignant phenotypes. How cells repurpose key regulators of cell identity as tumour-promoting factors is unclear. The antithetic role of the Polycomb component EZH2 in normal brain and glioma provides a paradigm to dissect how wild-type chromatin modifiers gain a pathological function in cancer. Here, we show that oncogenic signalling induces redistribution of EZH2 across the genome, and through misregulation of homeotic genes corrupts the identity of neural cells. Characterisation of EZH2 targets in de novo transformed cells, combined with analysis of glioma patient datasets and cell lines, reveals that acquisition of tumorigenic potential is accompanied by a transcriptional switch involving de-repression of spinal cord-specifying HOX genes and concomitant silencing of the empty spiracles homologue EMX2, a critical regulator of neurogenesis in the forebrain. Maintenance of tumorigenic potential by glioblastoma cells requires EMX2 repression, since forced EMX2 expression prevents tumour formation. Thus, by redistributing EZH2 across the genome, cancer cells subvert developmental transcriptional programmes that specify normal cell identity and remove physiological breaks that restrain cell proliferation.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Carcinogenesis/genetics
- Carcinogenesis/pathology
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Cell Transformation, Neoplastic/metabolism
- Cell Transformation, Neoplastic/pathology
- Chromatin/metabolism
- DNA Methylation/genetics
- Enhancer of Zeste Homolog 2 Protein/metabolism
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
- Genes, Homeobox
- Glioma/genetics
- Glioma/pathology
- Humans
- Male
- Mice, Inbred NOD
- Models, Biological
- Phenotype
- Protein Binding
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Transcription, Genetic
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Mortimer
- Cancer Epigenetics LaboratoryThe Francis Crick InstituteLondonUK
| | | | - Harshil Patel
- Bioinformatics and BiostatisticsThe Francis Crick InstituteLondonUK
| | | | - Zane Jaunmuktane
- Department of Clinical and Movement NeurosciencesQueen Square Brain BankUCL Queen Square Institute of NeurologyLondonUK
- Division of NeuropathologyNational Hospital for Neurology and NeurosurgeryUniversity College London Hospitals NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
| | - Sebastian Brandner
- Division of NeuropathologyNational Hospital for Neurology and NeurosurgeryUniversity College London Hospitals NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
- Department of Neurodegenerative DiseaseUCL Queen Square Institute of NeurologyLondonUK
| | - Paola Scaffidi
- Cancer Epigenetics LaboratoryThe Francis Crick InstituteLondonUK
- UCL Cancer InstituteUniversity College LondonLondonUK
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47
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Duan S, Chan WK, Oman A, Basile DP, Alvira CM, Buxton IL, Iosef C. NF-κB/NKILA signaling modulates the anti-cancerous effects of EZH2 inhibition. J Cell Mol Med 2019; 23:6182-6192. [PMID: 31282094 PMCID: PMC6714229 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.14500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2018] [Revised: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
A wealth of evidence supports the broad therapeutic potential of NF-κB and EZH2 inhibitors as adjuvants for breast cancer treatment. We contribute to this knowledge by elucidating, for the first time, unique regulatory crosstalk between EZH2, NF-κB and the NF-κB interacting long non-coding RNA (NKILA). We define a novel signaling loop encompassing canonical and non-canonical actions of EZH2 on the regulation of NF-κB/NKILA homeostasis, with relevance to breast cancer treatment. We applied a respective silencing approach in non-transformed breast epithelial cells, triple negative MDA-MB-231 cells and hormone responsive MCF-7 cells, and measured changes in EZH2/NF-κB/NKILA levels to confirm their interdependence. We demonstrate cell line-specific fluctuations in these factors that functionally contribute to epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) remodelling and cell fate response. EZH2 inhibition attenuates MDA-MB-231 cell motility and CDK4-mediated MCF-7 cell cycle regulation, while inducing global H3K27 methylation and an EMT phenotype in non-transformed cells. Notably, these events are mediated by a cell-context dependent gain or loss of NKILA and NF-κB. Depletion of NF-κB in non-transformed cells enhances their sensitivity to growth factor signaling and suggests a role for the host microenvironment milieu in regulating EZH2/NF-κB/NKILA homeostasis. Taken together, this knowledge critically informs the delivery and assessment of EZH2 inhibitors in breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzann Duan
- University of Nevada Reno, School of MedicineRenoNevada
| | | | - Andrew Oman
- University of Nevada Reno, School of MedicineRenoNevada
| | | | | | | | - Cristiana Iosef
- University of Nevada Reno, School of MedicineRenoNevada
- Stanford University School of MedicineStanfordCalifornia
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48
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Puppe J, Opdam M, Schouten PC, Jóźwiak K, Lips E, Severson T, van de Ven M, Brambillasca C, Bouwman P, van Tellingen O, Bernards R, Wesseling J, Eichler C, Thangarajah F, Malter W, Pandey GK, Ozretić L, Caldas C, van Lohuizen M, Hauptmann M, Rhiem K, Hahnen E, Reinhardt HC, Büttner R, Mallmann P, Schömig-Markiefka B, Schmutzler R, Linn S, Jonkers J. EZH2 Is Overexpressed in BRCA1-like Breast Tumors and Predictive for Sensitivity to High-Dose Platinum-Based Chemotherapy. Clin Cancer Res 2019; 25:4351-4362. [PMID: 31036541 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-18-4024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Revised: 02/25/2019] [Accepted: 04/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE BRCA1-deficient breast cancers carry a specific DNA copy-number signature ("BRCA1-like") and are hypersensitive to DNA double-strand break (DSB) inducing compounds. Here, we explored whether (i) EZH2 is overexpressed in human BRCA1-deficient breast tumors and might predict sensitivity to DSB-inducing drugs; (ii) EZH2 inhibition potentiates cisplatin efficacy in Brca1-deficient murine mammary tumors. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN EZH2 expression was analyzed in 497 breast cancers using IHC or RNA sequencing. We classified 370 tumors by copy-number profiles as BRCA1-like or non-BRCA1-like and examined its association with EZH2 expression. Additionally, we assessed BRCA1 loss through mutation or promoter methylation status and investigated the predictive value of EZH2 expression in a study population of breast cancer patients treated with adjuvant high-dose platinum-based chemotherapy compared with standard anthracycline-based chemotherapy. To explore whether EZH2 inhibition by GSK126 enhances sensitivity to platinum drugs in EZH2-overexpressing breast cancers we used a Brca1-deficient mouse model. RESULTS The highest EZH2 expression was found in BRCA1-associated tumors harboring a BRCA1 mutation, BRCA1-promoter methylation or were classified as BRCA1 like. We observed a greater benefit from high-dose platinum-based chemotherapy in BRCA1-like and non-BRCA1-like patients with high EZH2 expression. Combined treatment with the EZH2 inhibitor GSK126 and cisplatin decreased cell proliferation and improved survival in Brca1-deficient mice in comparison with single agents. CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrate that EZH2 is expressed at significantly higher levels in BRCA1-deficient breast cancers. EZH2 overexpression can identify patients with breast cancer who benefit significantly from intensified DSB-inducing platinum-based chemotherapy independent of BRCA1-like status. EZH2 inhibition improves the antitumor effect of platinum drugs in Brca1-deficient breast tumors in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian Puppe
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Center of Familial Breast and Ovarian Cancer, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Mark Opdam
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Philip C Schouten
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Katarzyna Jóźwiak
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Esther Lips
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Tesa Severson
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marieke van de Ven
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Chiara Brambillasca
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Peter Bouwman
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Olaf van Tellingen
- Division of Pharmacology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - René Bernards
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Division of Molecular Carcinogenesis, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jelle Wesseling
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Christian Eichler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Fabinshy Thangarajah
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Wolfram Malter
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Gaurav Kumar Pandey
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Division of Molecular Genetics, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Luka Ozretić
- Department of Pathology, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | | | - Maarten van Lohuizen
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Division of Molecular Genetics, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Michael Hauptmann
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Kerstin Rhiem
- Center of Familial Breast and Ovarian Cancer, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Eric Hahnen
- Center of Familial Breast and Ovarian Cancer, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | | | - Reinhard Büttner
- Department of Pathology, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Peter Mallmann
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | | | - Rita Schmutzler
- Center of Familial Breast and Ovarian Cancer, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Sabine Linn
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jos Jonkers
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Center of Familial Breast and Ovarian Cancer, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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49
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An ErbB2/c-Src axis links bioenergetics with PRC2 translation to drive epigenetic reprogramming and mammary tumorigenesis. Nat Commun 2019; 10:2901. [PMID: 31263101 PMCID: PMC6603039 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-10681-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2018] [Accepted: 05/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Dysregulation of histone modifications promotes carcinogenesis by altering transcription. Breast cancers frequently overexpress the histone methyltransferase EZH2, the catalytic subunit of Polycomb Repressor Complex 2 (PRC2). However, the role of EZH2 in this setting is unclear due to the context-dependent functions of PRC2 and the heterogeneity of breast cancer. Moreover, the mechanisms underlying PRC2 overexpression in cancer are obscure. Here, using multiple models of breast cancer driven by the oncogene ErbB2, we show that the tyrosine kinase c-Src links energy sufficiency with PRC2 overexpression via control of mRNA translation. By stimulating mitochondrial ATP production, c-Src suppresses energy stress, permitting sustained activation of the mammalian/mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1), which increases the translation of mRNAs encoding the PRC2 subunits Ezh2 and Suz12. We show that Ezh2 overexpression and activity are pivotal in ErbB2-mediated mammary tumourigenesis. These results reveal the hitherto unknown c-Src/mTORC1/PRC2 axis, which is essential for ErbB2-driven carcinogenesis. Polycomb Repressor Complex 2 (PRC2) is frequently up-regulated in cancers. Here, the authors show that the tyrosine kinase c-Src stimulates mitochondrial function to signal energy sufficiency to mTORC1, increasing translation of the PRC2 subunits EZH2 and SUZ12 to support ErbB2-dependent tumours.
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50
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The SLC34A2-ROS-HIF-1-induced up-regulation of EZH2 expression promotes proliferation and chemo-resistance to apoptosis in colorectal cancer. Biosci Rep 2019; 39:BSR20180268. [PMID: 30038060 PMCID: PMC6527931 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20180268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2018] [Revised: 04/07/2018] [Accepted: 09/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Growing evidence has uncovered that SLC34A2 plays an evident role in the progression in several types of tumors. However, the biological function and underlying molecular mechanisms of SLC34A2 remain largely unknown. Here, we indicated that SLC34A2 expression was markedly increased in SW480 and HT29 cell line cells compared with that in normal colorectal epithelial cell line cells. Array analysis displayed that the expression of enhancer of zeste 2 (EZH2) decreased considerably when SLC34A2 was knocked down. We demonstrated that SLC34A2 induced EZH2 expression and activated its promoter activity. Serial 5′ deletion and site-directed mutagenesis revealed that the induction of EZH2 expression by SLC34A2 was dependent upon the hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF-1)-2 binding site directly within EZH2 promoter. Moreover, HIF-1 activation was proved essential for SLC34A2-induced EZH2 expression. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation contributed to the stabilization of HIF-1α by leading to the binding of HIF-1α to the EZH2 promoter, which resulted in increased EZH2 expression. Additionally, we showed that the inhibition of both HIF-1α expression and ROS generation by YC-1 or BHA, respectively, decreased SLC34A2-induced EZH2 overexpression. Significantly, SLC34A2-induced EZH2 overexpression promoted the proliferation and chemo-resistance to apoptosis in colorectal cancer (CRC) cells in vitro and in vivo. Altogether, we conclude that the SLC34A2-ROS-HIF-1-induced overexpression of EZH2 promotes CRC cells proliferation and chemo-resistance to apoptosis. SLC34A2-ROS-HIF-1-EZH2 signaling pathway might serve as a novel therapeutic target against CRC.
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