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Hojjatipour T, Ajeli M, Maali A, Azad M. Epigenetic-modifying agents: The potential game changers in the treatment of hematologic malignancies. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2024; 204:104498. [PMID: 39244179 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2024.104498] [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: 06/10/2024] [Revised: 08/27/2024] [Accepted: 08/30/2024] [Indexed: 09/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Hematologic malignancies are lethal diseases arising from accumulated leukemic cells with substantial genetic or epigenetic defects in their natural development. Epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation and histone modifications, are critical in hematologic malignancy formation, propagation, and treatment response. Both mutations and aberrant recruitment of epigenetic modifiers are reported in different hematologic malignancies, which regarding the reversible nature of epigenetic regulations, make them a potential target for cancer treatment. Here, we have first outlined a comprehensive overview of current knowledge related to epigenetic regulation's impact on the development and prognosis of hematologic malignancies. Furthermore, we have presented an updated overview regarding the current status of epigenetic-based drugs in hematologic malignancies treatment. And finally, discuss current challenges and ongoing clinical trials based on the manipulation of epigenetic modifies in hematologic malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahereh Hojjatipour
- Cancer Immunology Group, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham Biodiscovery Institute, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Mina Ajeli
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Guilan, Iran
| | - Amirhosein Maali
- Department of Immunology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran; Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Mehdi Azad
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Paramedicine, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran.
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2
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Silva-Hurtado TJ, Inocencio JF, Yong RL. Emerging applications of hypomethylating agents in the treatment of glioblastoma (Review). Mol Clin Oncol 2024; 21:59. [PMID: 39006906 PMCID: PMC11240870 DOI: 10.3892/mco.2024.2757] [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: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
DNA hypomethylating agents (HMAs) such as decitabine and 5-azacytidine have established roles in the treatment paradigms for myelodysplastic syndrome and acute myelogenous leukemia, where they are considered to exert their anticancer effects by restoring the expression of tumor suppressor genes. Due to their relatively favorable adverse effect profile and known ability to pass through the blood-brain barrier, applications in the treatment of glioblastoma (GBM) and other central nervous system malignancies are under active investigation. The present review examines the types of HMAs currently available, their known and less-understood antineoplastic mechanisms, and the evidence to date of their preclinical and clinical efficacy in glioblastoma and other solid malignancies. The present review discusses the potential synergies HMAs may have with established and emerging GBM treatments, including temozolomide, immune checkpoint inhibitors and cancer vaccines. Recent successes and setbacks in clinical trials for newly diagnosed and recurrent GBM are summarized in order to highlight opportunities for HMAs to improve therapeutic responses. Challenges for future clinical trials are also assessed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thenzing J. Silva-Hurtado
- Department of Neurosurgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Julio F. Inocencio
- Leo M. Davidoff Department of Neurosurgery, Montefiore Medical Center, Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Raymund L. Yong
- Department of Neurosurgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
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3
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Heydari Z, Moeinvaziri F, Mirazimi SMA, Dashti F, Smirnova O, Shpichka A, Mirzaei H, Timashev P, Vosough M. Alteration in DNA methylation patterns: Epigenetic signatures in gastrointestinal cancers. Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 973:176563. [PMID: 38593929 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2024.176563] [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: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Abnormalities in epigenetic modifications can cause malignant transformations in cells, leading to cancers of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, which accounts for 20% of all cancers worldwide. Among the epigenetic alterations, DNA hypomethylation is associated with genomic instability. In addition, CpG methylation and promoter hypermethylation have been recognized as biomarkers for different malignancies. In GI cancers, epigenetic alterations affect genes responsible for cell cycle control, DNA repair, apoptosis, and tumorigenic-specific signaling pathways. Understanding the pattern of alterations in DNA methylation in GI cancers could help scientists discover new molecular-based pharmaceutical treatments. This study highlights alterations in DNA methylation in GI cancers. Understanding epigenetic differences among GI cancers may improve targeted therapies and lead to the discovery of new diagnostic biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Heydari
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Farideh Moeinvaziri
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Centre, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Mohammad Ali Mirazimi
- School of Medicine, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran; Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Dashti
- School of Medicine, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran; Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Olga Smirnova
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Anastasia Shpichka
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Hamed Mirzaei
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran.
| | - Peter Timashev
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov University, Moscow, Russia; World-Class Research Center "Digital Biodesign and Personalized Healthcare", Sechenov University, Moscow, Russia; Chemistry Department, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia.
| | - Massoud Vosough
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Centre, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.
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4
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Mishra J, Chakraborty S, Nandi P, Manna S, Baral T, Niharika, Roy A, Mishra P, Patra SK. Epigenetic regulation of androgen dependent and independent prostate cancer. Adv Cancer Res 2024; 161:223-320. [PMID: 39032951 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acr.2024.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
Prostate cancer is one of the most common malignancies among men worldwide. Besides genetic alterations, epigenetic modulations including DNA methylation, histone modifications and miRNA mediated alteration of gene expression are the key driving forces for the prostate tumor development and cancer progression. Aberrant expression and/or the activity of the epigenetic modifiers/enzymes, results in aberrant expression of genes involved in DNA repair, cell cycle regulation, cell adhesion, apoptosis, autophagy, tumor suppression and hormone response and thereby disease progression. Altered epigenome is associated with prostate cancer recurrence, progression, aggressiveness and transition from androgen-dependent to androgen-independent phenotype. These epigenetic modifications are reversible and various compounds/drugs targeting the epigenetic enzymes have been developed that are effective in cancer treatment. This chapter focuses on the epigenetic alterations in prostate cancer initiation and progression, listing different epigenetic biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis of the disease and their potential as therapeutic targets. This chapter also summarizes different epigenetic drugs approved for prostate cancer therapy and the drugs available for clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jagdish Mishra
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, Odisha, India
| | - Subhajit Chakraborty
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, Odisha, India
| | - Piyasa Nandi
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, Odisha, India
| | - Soumen Manna
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, Odisha, India
| | - Tirthankar Baral
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, Odisha, India
| | - Niharika
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, Odisha, India
| | - Ankan Roy
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, Odisha, India
| | - Prahallad Mishra
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, Odisha, India
| | - Samir Kumar Patra
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, Odisha, India.
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5
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Lee AV, Nestler KA, Chiappinelli KB. Therapeutic targeting of DNA methylation alterations in cancer. Pharmacol Ther 2024; 258:108640. [PMID: 38570075 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2024.108640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
DNA methylation is a critical component of gene regulation and plays an important role in the development of cancer. Hypermethylation of tumor suppressor genes and silencing of DNA repair pathways facilitate uncontrolled cell growth and synergize with oncogenic mutations to perpetuate cancer phenotypes. Additionally, aberrant DNA methylation hinders immune responses crucial for antitumor immunity. Thus, inhibiting dysregulated DNA methylation is a promising cancer therapy. Pharmacologic inhibition of DNA methylation reactivates silenced tumor suppressors and bolster immune responses through induction of viral mimicry. Now, with the advent of immunotherapies and discovery of the immune-modulatory effects of DNA methylation inhibitors, there is great interest in understanding how targeting DNA methylation in combination with other therapies can enhance antitumor immunity. Here, we describe the role of aberrant DNA methylation in cancer and mechanisms by which it promotes tumorigenesis and modulates immune responses. Finally, we review the initial discoveries and ongoing efforts to target DNA methylation as a cancer therapeutic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail V Lee
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, & Tropical Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Kevin A Nestler
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, & Tropical Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Katherine B Chiappinelli
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, & Tropical Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA.
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Zhou L, Yu CW. Epigenetic modulations in triple-negative breast cancer: Therapeutic implications for tumor microenvironment. Pharmacol Res 2024; 204:107205. [PMID: 38719195 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107205] [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: 02/24/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype lacking estrogen receptors, progesterone receptors and lacks HER2 overexpression. This absence of critical molecular targets poses significant challenges for conventional therapies. Immunotherapy, remarkably immune checkpoint blockade, offers promise for TNBC treatment, but its efficacy remains limited. Epigenetic dysregulation, including altered DNA methylation, histone modifications, and imbalances in regulators such as BET proteins, plays a crucial role in TNBC development and resistance to treatment. Hypermethylation of tumor suppressor gene promoters and the imbalance of histone methyltransferases such as EZH2 and histone deacetylases (HDACs) profoundly influence tumor cell proliferation, survival, and metastasis. In addition, epigenetic alterations critically shape the tumor microenvironment (TME), including immune cell composition, cytokine signaling, and immune checkpoint expression, ultimately contributing to immune evasion. Targeting these epigenetic mechanisms with specific inhibitors such as EZH2 and HDAC inhibitors in combination with immunotherapy represents a compelling strategy to remodel the TME, potentially overcoming immune evasion and enhancing therapeutic outcomes in TNBC. This review aims to comprehensively elucidate the current understanding of epigenetic modulation in TNBC, its influence on the TME, and the potential of combining epigenetic therapies with immunotherapy to overcome the challenges posed by this aggressive breast cancer subtype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linlin Zhou
- Institute of Immunotherapy, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China; School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Chen-Wei Yu
- Department of Statistics and Information Science, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, Taiwan.
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Roboz GJ, Sanz G, Griffiths EA, Yee K, Kantarjian H, Récher C, Byrne MT, Patkowska E, Kim HJ, Thomas X, Moors I, Stock W, Illés Á, Fenaux P, Miyazaki Y, Yamauchi T, O'Connell CL, Hao Y, Keer HN, Azab M, Döhner H. Guadecitabine vs TC in relapsed/refractory AML after intensive chemotherapy: a randomized phase 3 ASTRAL-2 trial. Blood Adv 2024; 8:2020-2029. [PMID: 38231126 PMCID: PMC11103175 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2023012062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Guadecitabine is a novel hypomethylating agent (HMA) resistant to deamination by cytidine deaminase. Patients with relapsed/refractory acute myeloid leukemia (AML) were randomly assigned to guadecitabine or a preselected treatment choice (TC) of high-intensity chemotherapy, low-intensity treatment with HMAs or low-dose cytarabine, or best supportive care (BSC). The primary end point was overall survival (OS). A total of 302 patients were randomly assigned to guadecitabine (n = 148) or TC (n = 154). Preselected TCs were low-intensity treatment (n = 233 [77%; mainly HMAs]), high-intensity chemotherapy (n = 63 [21%]), and BSC (n = 6 [2%]). The median OS were 6.4 and 5.4 months for guadecitabine and TC, respectively (hazard ratio 0.88 [95% confidence interval, 0.67-1.14]; log-rank P = .33). Survival benefit for guadecitabine was suggested in several prospective subgroups, including age <65 years, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status 0 to 1, refractory AML, and lower peripheral blood blasts ≤30%. Complete response (CR) + CR with partial hematologic recovery rates were 17% for guadecitabine vs 8% for TC (P < .01); CR+CR with incomplete count recovery rates were 27% for guadecitabine vs 14% for TC (P < .01). Safety was comparable for the 2 arms, but guadecitabine had a higher rate of grade ≥3 neutropenia (32% vs 17%; P < .01). This study did not demonstrate an OS benefit for guadecitabine. Clinical response rates were higher for guadecitabine, with comparable safety to TC. There was an OS benefit for guadecitabine in several prespecified subgroups. This study was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT02920008.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gail J. Roboz
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Weill Cornell Medicine and the New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY
| | - Guillermo Sanz
- Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe,Valencia, and CIBERONC Cáncer, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Karen Yee
- Department of Medicine, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Hagop Kantarjian
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Christian Récher
- Institut Universitaire du Cancer de Toulouse-Oncopole, Toulouse, France
| | - Michael T. Byrne
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | | | - Hee-Je Kim
- Catholic Hematology Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Xavier Thomas
- Hôpital Lyon Sud, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Pierre-Bénite, France
| | - Ine Moors
- Department of Hematology, Universitair Ziekenhuis Gent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Wendy Stock
- Department of Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL
| | - Árpád Illés
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Pierre Fenaux
- Hôpital Saint-Louis, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris and Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Yasushi Miyazaki
- Department of Hematology, Nagasaki University Hospital, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Takahiro Yamauchi
- Department of Hematology, University of Fukui Hospital, Eiheiji-chō, Japan
| | | | - Yong Hao
- Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc, Pleasanton, CA
| | | | | | - Hartmut Döhner
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ulm University Hospital, Ulm, Germany
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8
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Gao J, Shi W, Wang J, Guan C, Dong Q, Sheng J, Zou X, Xu Z, Ge Y, Yang C, Li J, Bao H, Zhong X, Cui Y. Research progress and applications of epigenetic biomarkers in cancer. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1308309. [PMID: 38681199 PMCID: PMC11048075 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1308309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic changes are heritable changes in gene expression without changes in the nucleotide sequence of genes. Epigenetic changes play an important role in the development of cancer and in the process of malignancy metastasis. Previous studies have shown that abnormal epigenetic changes can be used as biomarkers for disease status and disease prediction. The reversibility and controllability of epigenetic modification changes also provide new strategies for early disease prevention and treatment. In addition, corresponding drug development has also reached the clinical stage. In this paper, we will discuss the recent progress and application status of tumor epigenetic biomarkers from three perspectives: DNA methylation, non-coding RNA, and histone modification, in order to provide new opportunities for additional tumor research and applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianjun Gao
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Wujiang Shi
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Jiangang Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Canghai Guan
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Qingfu Dong
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Jialin Sheng
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Xinlei Zou
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Zhaoqiang Xu
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yifei Ge
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Chengru Yang
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Jiehan Li
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Haolin Bao
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Xiangyu Zhong
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yunfu Cui
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
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Zakharia Y, Singer EA, Acharyya S, Garje R, Joshi M, Peace D, Baladandayuthapani V, Majumdar A, Li X, Lalancette C, Kryczek I, Zou W, Alva A. Durvalumab and guadecitabine in advanced clear cell renal cell carcinoma: results from the phase Ib/II study BTCRC-GU16-043. Nat Commun 2024; 15:972. [PMID: 38302476 PMCID: PMC10834488 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45216-z] [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: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic modulation is well established in hematologic malignancies but to a lesser degree in solid tumors. Here we report the results of a phase Ib/II study of guadecitabine and durvalumab in advanced clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC; NCT03308396). Patients received guadecitabine (starting at 60 mg/m2 subcutaneously on days 1-5 with de-escalation to 45 mg/m2 in case of dose limiting toxicity) with durvalumab (1500 mg intravenously on day 8). The study enrolled 57 patients, 6 in phase Ib with safety being the primary objective and 51in phase II, comprising 2 cohorts: 36 patients in Cohort 1 were treatment naive to checkpoint inhibitors (CPI) with 0-1 prior therapies and 15 patients in Cohort 2 were treated with up to two prior systemic therapies including one CPI. The combination of guadecitabine 45 mg/m2 with durvalumab 1500 mg was deemed safe. The primary objective of overall response rate (ORR) in cohort 1 was 22%. Sixteen patients (44%) experienced stable disease (SD). Secondary objectives included overall survival (OS), duration of response, progression-free survival (PFS), clinical benefit rate, and safety as well as ORR for Cohort 2. Median PFS for cohort 1 and cohort 2 were 14.26 and 3.91 months respectively. Median OS was not reached. In cohort 2, one patient achieved a partial response and 60% achieved SD. Asymptomatic neutropenia was the most common adverse event. Even though the trial did not meet the primary objective in cohort 1, the tolerability and PFS signal in CPI naive patients are worth further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yousef Zakharia
- University of Iowa Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, Iowa City, IA, USA.
| | - Eric A Singer
- Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | | | - Rohan Garje
- University of Iowa Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | | | - David Peace
- University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | | | - Xiong Li
- University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | | | | | - Ajjai Alva
- University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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10
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Fenaux P, Gobbi M, Kropf PL, Issa JPJ, Roboz GJ, Mayer J, Krauter J, Robak T, Kantarjian H, Novak J, Jedrzejczak WW, Thomas X, Ojeda-Uribe M, Miyazaki Y, Min YH, Yeh SP, Brandwein J, Gercheva-Kyuchukova L, Demeter J, Griffiths E, Yee K, Döhner K, Hao Y, Keer H, Azab M, Döhner H. Guadecitabine vs treatment choice in newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia: a global phase 3 randomized study. Blood Adv 2023; 7:5027-5037. [PMID: 37276510 PMCID: PMC10471926 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2023010179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This phase 3 study evaluated the efficacy and safety of the new hypomethylating agent guadecitabine (n = 408) vs a preselected treatment choice (TC; n = 407) of azacitidine, decitabine, or low-dose cytarabine in patients with acute myeloid leukemia unfit to receive intensive induction chemotherapy. Half of the patients (50%) had poor Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status (2-3). The coprimary end points were complete remission (19% and 17% of patients for guadecitabine and TC, respectively [stratified P = .48]) and overall survival (median survival 7.1 and 8.5 months for guadecitabine and TC, respectively [hazard ratio, 0.97; 95% confidence interval, 0.83-1.14; stratified log-rank P = .73]). One- and 2-year survival estimates were 37% and 18% for guadecitabine and 36% and 14% for TC, respectively. A large proportion of patients (42%) received <4 cycles of treatment in both the arms. In a post hoc analysis of patients who received ≥4 treatment cycles, guadecitabine was associated with longer median survival vs TC (15.6 vs 13.0 months [hazard ratio, 0.78; 95% confidence interval, 0.64-0.96; log-rank P = .02]). There was no significant difference in the proportion of patients with grade ≥3 adverse events (AEs) between guadecitabine (92%) and TC (88%); however, grade ≥3 AEs of febrile neutropenia, neutropenia, and pneumonia were higher with guadecitabine. In conclusion, no significant difference was observed in the efficacy of guadecitabine and TC in the overall population. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT02348489.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marco Gobbi
- Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Jiri Mayer
- Fakultní Nemocnice, Brno, Česká Republika
| | - Jürgen Krauter
- Städtisches Klinikum Braunschweig gGmbH, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Tadeusz Robak
- Medical University of Lodz and Copernicus Memorial Hospital, Lodz, Poland
| | | | - Jan Novak
- Univerzita Karlova, Praha, Česká Republika
| | | | | | | | | | - Yoo Hong Min
- Severance Hospital, Yonsei University Health System, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Su-Peng Yeh
- China Medical University Hospital, Taichung City, Taiwan
| | | | | | | | | | - Karen Yee
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Yong Hao
- Astex Pharmaceuticals Inc, Pleasanton, CA
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11
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Gallimore F, Fandy TE. Therapeutic Applications of Azanucleoside Analogs as DNA Demethylating Agents. EPIGENOMES 2023; 7:12. [PMID: 37489400 PMCID: PMC10366911 DOI: 10.3390/epigenomes7030012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Azanucleosides, such as 5-azacytidine and decitabine, are DNA demethylating agents used in the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia and myelodysplastic syndromes. Researchers continue to explore their utility in the treatment of other hematologic and solid tumors. Based on the capacity of the compounds to inhibit DNA methyltransferase enzymes and the important role of DNA methylation in health and disease, it is essential to understand the molecular changes that azanucleosides induce and how these changes may improve treatment outcomes in subsets of patients. This review summarizes the molecular and therapeutic actions of azanucleosides and discusses recent clinical trials of these compounds as single agents or in combination therapy for the treatment of cancer and related conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fallon Gallimore
- Department of Pharmaceutical & Administrative Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Charleston, Charleston, WV 25304, USA
| | - Tamer E Fandy
- Department of Pharmaceutical & Administrative Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Charleston, Charleston, WV 25304, USA
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12
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Singh H, Kumar M, Kanungo H. Role of Gene Mutations in Acute Myeloid Leukemia: A Review Article. Glob Med Genet 2023; 10:123-128. [PMID: 37360004 PMCID: PMC10289861 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1770768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is an immensely heterogeneous disease characterized by the clonal growth of promyelocytes or myeloblasts in bone marrow as well as in peripheral blood or tissue. Enhancement in the knowledge of the molecular biology of cancer and recognition of intermittent mutations in AML contribute to favorable circumstances to establish targeted therapies and enhance the clinical outcome. There is high interest in the development of therapies that target definitive abnormalities in AML while eradicating leukemia-initiating cells. In recent years, there has been a better knowledge of the molecular abnormalities that lead to the progression of AML, and the application of new methods in molecular biology techniques has increased that facilitating the advancement of investigational drugs. In this review, literature or information on various gene mutations for AML is discussed. English language articles were scrutinized in plentiful directories or databases like PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Sciences, Google Scholar, and Scopus. The important keywords used for searching databases is "Acute myeloid leukemia", "Gene mutation in Acute myeloid leukemia", "Genetic alteration in Acute myeloid leukemia," and "Genetic abnormalities in Acute myeloid leukemia."
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Affiliation(s)
- Himanshu Singh
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology and Oral Microbiology, Index Institute of Dental Sciences, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India
| | - Magesh Kumar
- Department of Periodontics, Index Institute of Dental Sciences, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India
| | - Himanshu Kanungo
- Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics, Index Institute of Dental Sciences, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India
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13
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Sahafnejad Z, Ramazi S, Allahverdi A. An Update of Epigenetic Drugs for the Treatment of Cancers and Brain Diseases: A Comprehensive Review. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:genes14040873. [PMID: 37107631 PMCID: PMC10137918 DOI: 10.3390/genes14040873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetics has long been recognized as a significant field in biology and is defined as the investigation of any alteration in gene expression patterns that is not attributed to changes in the DNA sequences. Epigenetic marks, including histone modifications, non-coding RNAs, and DNA methylation, play crucial roles in gene regulation. Numerous studies in humans have been carried out on single-nucleotide resolution of DNA methylation, the CpG island, new histone modifications, and genome-wide nucleosome positioning. These studies indicate that epigenetic mutations and aberrant placement of these epigenetic marks play a critical role in causing the disease. Consequently, significant development has occurred in biomedical research in identifying epigenetic mechanisms, their interactions, and changes in health and disease conditions. The purpose of this review article is to provide comprehensive information about the different types of diseases caused by alterations in epigenetic factors such as DNA methylation and histone acetylation or methylation. Recent studies reported that epigenetics could influence the evolution of human cancer via aberrant methylation of gene promoter regions, which is associated with reduced gene function. Furthermore, DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) in the DNA methylation process as well as histone acetyltransferases (HATs)/histone deacetylases (HDACs) and histone methyltransferases (HMTs)/demethylases (HDMs) in histone modifications play important roles both in the catalysis and inhibition of target gene transcription and in many other DNA processes such as repair, replication, and recombination. Dysfunction in these enzymes leads to epigenetic disorders and, as a result, various diseases such as cancers and brain diseases. Consequently, the knowledge of how to modify aberrant DNA methylation as well as aberrant histone acetylation or methylation via inhibitors by using epigenetic drugs can be a suitable therapeutic approach for a number of diseases. Using the synergistic effects of DNA methylation and histone modification inhibitors, it is hoped that many epigenetic defects will be treated in the future. Numerous studies have demonstrated a link between epigenetic marks and their effects on brain and cancer diseases. Designing appropriate drugs could provide novel strategies for the management of these diseases in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Sahafnejad
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Jalal Ale Ahmad Highway, Tehran P.O. Box 14115-111, Iran
| | - Shahin Ramazi
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Jalal Ale Ahmad Highway, Tehran P.O. Box 14115-111, Iran
| | - Abdollah Allahverdi
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Jalal Ale Ahmad Highway, Tehran P.O. Box 14115-111, Iran
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14
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Vatsa PP, Jindal Y, Bhadwalkar J, Chamoli A, Upadhyay V, Mandoli A. Role of epigenetics in OSCC: an understanding above genetics. Med Oncol 2023; 40:122. [PMID: 36941511 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-023-01992-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/22/2023]
Abstract
Oral cavity cancer is categorized under head and neck cancer that frequently develops from squamous cells hence also known as oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Although molecular markers for oral cavity cancer are already known, epigenetic signatures for the same haven't been explored much. Epigenetic and genetic alterations were initially thought to be discrete mechanisms driving the tumour but the whole exome sequencing of various cancers has revealed the interdependency of epigenetics and genetic alterations. The reversible nature of these epigenetic changes makes them an alluring target for cancer therapeutics. The primary epigenetic alterations in cancer include DNA methylation and histone modifications. These alterations are useful for patient early detection and prognostication. This review summarizes the epigenetic perspective to understand the etiology, epigenetic biomarkers, and epi-drugs for better predictive diagnosis and treatment of OSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka P Vatsa
- Department of Biotechnology, NIPER-Ahmedabad, Opposite Air Force Station, Palaj, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, 382355, India
| | - Yogita Jindal
- Department of Biotechnology, NIPER-Ahmedabad, Opposite Air Force Station, Palaj, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, 382355, India
| | - Janhavi Bhadwalkar
- Department of Biotechnology, NIPER-Ahmedabad, Opposite Air Force Station, Palaj, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, 382355, India
| | - Ambika Chamoli
- Department of Biotechnology, NIPER-Ahmedabad, Opposite Air Force Station, Palaj, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, 382355, India
| | - Vinal Upadhyay
- Department of Biotechnology, NIPER-Ahmedabad, Opposite Air Force Station, Palaj, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, 382355, India
| | - Amit Mandoli
- Department of Biotechnology, NIPER-Ahmedabad, Opposite Air Force Station, Palaj, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, 382355, India.
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15
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Zhao A, Zhou H, Yang J, Li M, Niu T. Epigenetic regulation in hematopoiesis and its implications in the targeted therapy of hematologic malignancies. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:71. [PMID: 36797244 PMCID: PMC9935927 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01342-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Hematologic malignancies are one of the most common cancers, and the incidence has been rising in recent decades. The clinical and molecular features of hematologic malignancies are highly heterogenous, and some hematologic malignancies are incurable, challenging the treatment, and prognosis of the patients. However, hematopoiesis and oncogenesis of hematologic malignancies are profoundly affected by epigenetic regulation. Studies have found that methylation-related mutations, abnormal methylation profiles of DNA, and abnormal histone deacetylase expression are recurrent in leukemia and lymphoma. Furthermore, the hypomethylating agents and histone deacetylase inhibitors are effective to treat acute myeloid leukemia and T-cell lymphomas, indicating that epigenetic regulation is indispensable to hematologic oncogenesis. Epigenetic regulation mainly includes DNA modifications, histone modifications, and noncoding RNA-mediated targeting, and regulates various DNA-based processes. This review presents the role of writers, readers, and erasers of DNA methylation and histone methylation, and acetylation in hematologic malignancies. In addition, this review provides the influence of microRNAs and long noncoding RNAs on hematologic malignancies. Furthermore, the implication of epigenetic regulation in targeted treatment is discussed. This review comprehensively presents the change and function of each epigenetic regulator in normal and oncogenic hematopoiesis and provides innovative epigenetic-targeted treatment in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ailin Zhao
- Department of Hematology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Hui Zhou
- Department of Hematology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jinrong Yang
- Department of Hematology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Meng Li
- Department of Hematology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Ting Niu
- Department of Hematology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
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16
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Hui L, Ziyue Z, Chao L, Bin Y, Aoyu L, Haijing W. Epigenetic Regulations in Autoimmunity and Cancer: from Basic Science to Translational Medicine. Eur J Immunol 2023; 53:e2048980. [PMID: 36647268 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202048980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetics, as a discipline that aims to explain the differential expression of phenotypes arising from the same gene sequence and the heritability of epigenetic expression, has received much attention in medicine. Epigenetic mechanisms are constantly being discovered, including DNA methylation, histone modifications, noncoding RNAs and m6A. The immune system mainly achieves an immune response through the differentiation and functional expression of immune cells, in which epigenetic modification will have an important impact. Because of immune infiltration in the tumor microenvironment, immunotherapy has become a research hotspot in tumor therapy. Epigenetics plays an important role in autoimmune diseases and cancers through immunology. An increasing number of drugs targeting epigenetic mechanisms, such as DNA methyltransferase inhibitors, histone deacetylase inhibitors, and drug combinations, are being evaluated in clinical trials for the treatment of various cancers (including leukemia and osteosarcoma) and autoimmune diseases (systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic sclerosis). This review summarizes the progress of epigenetic regulation for cancers and autoimmune diseases to date, shedding light on potential therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Hui
- Department of Orthopedics, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P. R. China
| | - Zhao Ziyue
- Department of Orthopedics, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P. R. China
| | - Liu Chao
- Department of Orthopedics, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P. R. China
| | - Yu Bin
- Department of Orthopedics, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P. R. China
| | - Li Aoyu
- Department of Orthopedics, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P. R. China
| | - Wu Haijing
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, Department of Dermatology, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P. R. China
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17
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Characterizing crosstalk in epigenetic signaling to understand disease physiology. Biochem J 2023; 480:57-85. [PMID: 36630129 PMCID: PMC10152800 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20220550] [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: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetics, the inheritance of genomic information independent of DNA sequence, controls the interpretation of extracellular and intracellular signals in cell homeostasis, proliferation and differentiation. On the chromatin level, signal transduction leads to changes in epigenetic marks, such as histone post-translational modifications (PTMs), DNA methylation and chromatin accessibility to regulate gene expression. Crosstalk between different epigenetic mechanisms, such as that between histone PTMs and DNA methylation, leads to an intricate network of chromatin-binding proteins where pre-existing epigenetic marks promote or inhibit the writing of new marks. The recent technical advances in mass spectrometry (MS) -based proteomic methods and in genome-wide DNA sequencing approaches have broadened our understanding of epigenetic networks greatly. However, further development and wider application of these methods is vital in developing treatments for disorders and pathologies that are driven by epigenetic dysregulation.
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18
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Kumar A, Emdad L, Fisher PB, Das SK. Targeting epigenetic regulation for cancer therapy using small molecule inhibitors. Adv Cancer Res 2023; 158:73-161. [PMID: 36990539 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acr.2023.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
Cancer cells display pervasive changes in DNA methylation, disrupted patterns of histone posttranslational modification, chromatin composition or organization and regulatory element activities that alter normal programs of gene expression. It is becoming increasingly clear that disturbances in the epigenome are hallmarks of cancer, which are targetable and represent attractive starting points for drug creation. Remarkable progress has been made in the past decades in discovering and developing epigenetic-based small molecule inhibitors. Recently, epigenetic-targeted agents in hematologic malignancies and solid tumors have been identified and these agents are either in current clinical trials or approved for treatment. However, epigenetic drug applications face many challenges, including low selectivity, poor bioavailability, instability and acquired drug resistance. New multidisciplinary approaches are being designed to overcome these limitations, e.g., applications of machine learning, drug repurposing, high throughput virtual screening technologies, to identify selective compounds with improved stability and better bioavailability. We provide an overview of the key proteins that mediate epigenetic regulation that encompass histone and DNA modifications and discuss effector proteins that affect the organization of chromatin structure and function as well as presently available inhibitors as potential drugs. Current anticancer small-molecule inhibitors targeting epigenetic modified enzymes that have been approved by therapeutic regulatory authorities across the world are highlighted. Many of these are in different stages of clinical evaluation. We also assess emerging strategies for combinatorial approaches of epigenetic drugs with immunotherapy, standard chemotherapy or other classes of agents and advances in the design of novel epigenetic therapies.
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19
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Zhang Z, Wang G, Li Y, Lei D, Xiang J, Ouyang L, Wang Y, Yang J. Recent progress in DNA methyltransferase inhibitors as anticancer agents. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1072651. [PMID: 37077808 PMCID: PMC10107375 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1072651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
DNA methylation mediated by DNA methyltransferase is an important epigenetic process that regulates gene expression in mammals, which plays a key role in silencing certain genes, such as tumor suppressor genes, in cancer, and it has become a promising therapeutic target for cancer treatment. Similar to other epigenetic targets, DNA methyltransferase can also be modulated by chemical agents. Four agents have already been approved to treat hematological cancers. In order to promote the development of a DNA methyltransferase inhibitor as an anti-tumor agent, in the current review, we discuss the relationship between DNA methylation and tumor, the anti-tumor mechanism, the research progress and pharmacological properties of DNA methyltransferase inhibitors, and the future research trend of DNA methyltransferase inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhixiong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Guan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuyan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Dongsheng Lei
- School of Physical Science and Technology, Electron Microscopy Center of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jin Xiang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Liang Ouyang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Science and Technology Department, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yanyan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Science and Technology Department, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Yanyan Wang, ; Jinliang Yang,
| | - Jinliang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Innovation Center of Nursing Research, West China Hospital, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Yanyan Wang, ; Jinliang Yang,
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20
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Short NJ, Kantarjian H. Hypomethylating agents for the treatment of myelodysplastic syndromes and acute myeloid leukemia: Past discoveries and future directions. Am J Hematol 2022; 97:1616-1626. [PMID: 35871436 DOI: 10.1002/ajh.26667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Azacitidine and decitabine are hypomethylating agents that have dose-dependent epigenetic and cytotoxic effects and are widely used in the treatment of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). In this review, we discuss the path to regulatory approval of azacitidine and decitabine, highlighting the substantial efforts that have been made to optimize the dosing schedule and administration of these drugs, including the development of new, oral formulations of both agents. We also review novel combination strategies that are being investigated in ongoing clinical trials for patients with MDS and AML, as well as efforts to expand the current indications of these agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas J Short
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Hagop Kantarjian
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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21
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Liu G, Chen T, Zhang X, Ma X, Shi H. Small molecule inhibitors targeting the cancers. MedComm (Beijing) 2022; 3:e181. [PMID: 36254250 PMCID: PMC9560750 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Compared with traditional therapies, targeted therapy has merits in selectivity, efficacy, and tolerability. Small molecule inhibitors are one of the primary targeted therapies for cancer. Due to their advantages in a wide range of targets, convenient medication, and the ability to penetrate into the central nervous system, many efforts have been devoted to developing more small molecule inhibitors. To date, 88 small molecule inhibitors have been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration to treat cancers. Despite remarkable progress, small molecule inhibitors in cancer treatment still face many obstacles, such as low response rate, short duration of response, toxicity, biomarkers, and resistance. To better promote the development of small molecule inhibitors targeting cancers, we comprehensively reviewed small molecule inhibitors involved in all the approved agents and pivotal drug candidates in clinical trials arranged by the signaling pathways and the classification of small molecule inhibitors. We discussed lessons learned from the development of these agents, the proper strategies to overcome resistance arising from different mechanisms, and combination therapies concerned with small molecule inhibitors. Through our review, we hoped to provide insights and perspectives for the research and development of small molecule inhibitors in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gui‐Hong Liu
- Department of BiotherapyState Key Laboratory of BiotherapyCancer Center, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Tao Chen
- Department of CardiologyThe First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyangLiaoningChina
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of BiotherapyState Key Laboratory of BiotherapyCancer Center, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Xue‐Lei Ma
- Department of BiotherapyState Key Laboratory of BiotherapyCancer Center, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Hua‐Shan Shi
- Department of BiotherapyState Key Laboratory of BiotherapyCancer Center, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduChina
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22
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Epigenetic potentiation of somatostatin-2 by guadecitabine in neuroendocrine neoplasias as a novel method to allow delivery of peptide receptor radiotherapy. Eur J Cancer 2022; 176:110-120. [PMID: 36208569 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2022.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Somatostatin receptor-2 (SSTR2) is expressed on cell surface of neuroendocrine neoplasias; its presence is exploited for the delivery of peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT). Patients with no or low expression of SSTR2 are not candidates for PRRT. SSTR2 promotor undergoes epigenetic modification, known to regulate gene expression. We investigated whether the demethylation agent, guadecitabine, could enhance the expression of SSTR2 in NET models, using radioligand uptake/PET imaging as a biomarker of epigenetic modification. METHODS The effects of guadecitabine on the transcriptional, translational, and functional regulation of SSTR2 both in vitro and in vivo using low (QGP-1) and high (BON-1) methylated neuroendocrine neoplasia models was characterised. Promotor region methylation profiling of clinical samples (n = 61) was undertaken. Safety of combination guadecitabine and PRRT was assessed in vivo. RESULTS Pyrosequencing of cell lines illustrated differential methylation indices - BON: 1 94%, QGP: 1 21%. Following guadecitabine treatment, a dose-dependent increase in SSTR2 in BON-1 at a transcriptional, translational, and functional levels using the SSTR2-directed radioligand, 18F-FET-βAG-TOCA ([18F]-FETO) (150% increase [18F]-FETO uptake, p < 0.05) was observed. In vivo, guadecitabine treatment resulted in a 70% increase in [18F]-FETO uptake in BON-1 tumour models compared models with low baseline percentage methylation (p < 0.05). No additive toxicity was observed with the combination treatment of PRRT and guadecitabine in vivo. Methylation index in clinical samples was 10.5% compared to 5.2% in controls (p = 0.03) and correlated with SSTR2 expression (Wilcoxon rank sign -3.75,p < 0.01). CONCLUSION Guadecitabine increases SSTR2 expression both in vitro and in vivo. The combination of demethylation agents with PRRT warrants further investigation.
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23
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F. V, V. D. P, C. M, M. LI, C. D, G. P, D. C, A. T, M. G, S. DF, M. T, V. V, G. S. Targeting epigenetic alterations in cancer stem cells. FRONTIERS IN MOLECULAR MEDICINE 2022; 2:1011882. [PMID: 39086963 PMCID: PMC11285701 DOI: 10.3389/fmmed.2022.1011882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes are rarely mutated in several pediatric tumors and some early stage adult cancers. This suggests that an aberrant epigenetic reprogramming may crucially affect the tumorigenesis of these tumors. Compelling evidence support the hypothesis that cancer stem cells (CSCs), a cell subpopulation within the tumor bulk characterized by self-renewal capacity, metastatic potential and chemo-resistance, may derive from normal stem cells (NSCs) upon an epigenetic deregulation. Thus, a better understanding of the specific epigenetic alterations driving the transformation from NSCs into CSCs may help to identify efficacious treatments to target this aggressive subpopulation. Moreover, deepening the knowledge about these alterations may represent the framework to design novel therapeutic approaches also in the field of regenerative medicine in which bioengineering of NSCs has been evaluated. Here, we provide a broad overview about: 1) the role of aberrant epigenetic modifications contributing to CSC initiation, formation and maintenance, 2) the epigenetic inhibitors in clinical trial able to specifically target the CSC subpopulation, and 3) epigenetic drugs and stem cells used in regenerative medicine for cancer and diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verona F.
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Pantina V. D.
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Stomatological Sciences (DICHIRONS), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Modica C.
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Stomatological Sciences (DICHIRONS), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Lo Iacono M.
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - D’Accardo C.
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Porcelli G.
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Cricchio D.
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Stomatological Sciences (DICHIRONS), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Turdo A.
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Gaggianesi M.
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Stomatological Sciences (DICHIRONS), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Di Franco S.
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Stomatological Sciences (DICHIRONS), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Todaro M.
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Veschi V.
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Stomatological Sciences (DICHIRONS), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Stassi G.
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Stomatological Sciences (DICHIRONS), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
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24
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Chen S, Xie P, Cowan M, Huang H, Cardenas H, Keathley R, Tanner EJ, Fleming GF, Moroney JW, Pant A, Akasha AM, Davuluri RV, Kocherginsky M, Zhang B, Matei D. Epigenetic priming enhances antitumor immunity in platinum-resistant ovarian cancer. J Clin Invest 2022; 132:e158800. [PMID: 35671108 PMCID: PMC9282926 DOI: 10.1172/jci158800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundImmune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have modest activity in ovarian cancer (OC). To augment their activity, we used priming with the hypomethylating agent guadecitabine in a phase II study.MethodsEligible patients had platinum-resistant OC, normal organ function, measurable disease, and received up to 5 prior regimens. The treatment included guadecitabine (30 mg/m2) on days 1-4, and pembrolizumab (200 mg i.v.) on day 5, every 21 days. The primary endpoint was the response rate. Tumor biopsies, plasma, and PBMCs were obtained at baseline and after treatment.ResultsAmong 35 evaluable patients, 3 patients had partial responses (8.6%), and 8 (22.9%) patients had stable disease, resulting in a clinical benefit rate of 31.4% (95% CI: 16.9%-49.3%). The median duration of clinical benefit was 6.8 months. Long-interspersed element 1 (LINE1) was hypomethylated in post-treatment PBMCs, and methylomic and transcriptomic analyses showed activation of antitumor immunity in post-treatment biopsies. High-dimensional immune profiling of PBMCs showed a higher frequency of naive and/or central memory CD4+ T cells and of classical monocytes in patients with a durable clinical benefit or response (CBR). A higher baseline density of CD8+ T cells and CD20+ B cells and the presence of tertiary lymphoid structures in tumors were associated with a durable CBR.ConclusionEpigenetic priming using a hypomethylating agent with an ICI was feasible and resulted in a durable clinical benefit associated with immune responses in selected patients with recurrent OC.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov NCT02901899.FundingUS Army Medical Research and Material Command/Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (USAMRMC/CDMRP) grant W81XWH-17-0141; the Diana Princess of Wales Endowed Professorship and LCCTRAC funds from the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center; Walter S. and Lucienne Driskill Immunotherapy Research funds; Astex Pharmaceuticals; Merck & Co.; National Cancer Institute (NCI), NIH grants CCSG P30 CA060553, CCSG P30 CA060553, and CA060553.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siqi Chen
- Department of Medicine, Hematology/Oncology Division
| | - Ping Xie
- Department of Medicine, Hematology/Oncology Division
| | | | - Hao Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
| | | | - Russell Keathley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Driskill Graduate Training Program in Life Sciences, and
| | - Edward J. Tanner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Gini F. Fleming
- Department of Medicine, Hematology/Oncology Division, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - John W. Moroney
- Department of Medicine, Hematology/Oncology Division, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Alok Pant
- Northwestern Medicine, Lake Forest Hospital, Lake Forest, Illinois, USA
| | - Azza M. Akasha
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Ramana V. Davuluri
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
| | - Masha Kocherginsky
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Division of Biostatistics, Department of Preventive Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Bin Zhang
- Department of Medicine, Hematology/Oncology Division
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Daniela Matei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Papadatos-Pastos D, Yuan W, Pal A, Crespo M, Ferreira A, Gurel B, Prout T, Ameratunga M, Chénard-Poirier M, Curcean A, Bertan C, Baker C, Miranda S, Masrour N, Chen W, Pereira R, Figueiredo I, Morilla R, Jenkins B, Zachariou A, Riisnaes R, Parmar M, Turner A, Carreira S, Yap C, Brown R, Tunariu N, Banerji U, Lopez J, de Bono J, Minchom A. Phase 1, dose-escalation study of guadecitabine (SGI-110) in combination with pembrolizumab in patients with solid tumors. J Immunother Cancer 2022; 10:jitc-2022-004495. [PMID: 35717027 PMCID: PMC9240883 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2022-004495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Data suggest that immunomodulation induced by DNA hypomethylating agents can sensitize tumors to immune checkpoint inhibitors. We conducted a phase 1 dose-escalation trial (NCT02998567) of guadecitabine and pembrolizumab in patients with advanced solid tumors. We hypothesized that guadecitabine will overcome pembrolizumab resistance. Methods Patients received guadecitabine (45 mg/m2 or 30 mg/m2, administered subcutaneously on days 1–4), with pembrolizumab (200 mg administered intravenously starting from cycle 2 onwards) every 3 weeks. Primary endpoints were safety, tolerability and maximum tolerated dose; secondary and exploratory endpoints included objective response rate (ORR), changes in methylome, transcriptome, immune contextures in pre-treatment and on-treatment tumor biopsies. Results Between January 2017 and January 2020, 34 patients were enrolled. The recommended phase II dose was guadecitabine 30 mg/m2, days 1–4, and pembrolizumab 200 mg on day 1 every 3 weeks. Two dose-limiting toxicities (neutropenia, febrile neutropenia) were reported at guadecitabine 45 mg/m2 with none reported at guadecitabine 30 mg/m2. The most common treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) were neutropenia (58.8%), fatigue (17.6%), febrile neutropenia (11.8%) and nausea (11.8%). Common, grade 3+ TRAEs were neutropaenia (38.2%) and febrile neutropaenia (11.8%). There were no treatment-related deaths. Overall, 30 patients were evaluable for antitumor activity; ORR was 7% with 37% achieving disease control (progression-free survival) for ≥24 weeks. Of 12 evaluable patients with non-small cell lung cancer, 10 had been previously treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors with 5 (42%) having disease control ≥24 weeks (clinical benefit). Reduction in LINE-1 DNA methylation following treatment in blood (peripheral blood mononuclear cells) and tissue samples was demonstrated and methylation at transcriptional start site and 5’ untranslated region gene regions showed enriched negative correlation with gene expression. Increases in intra-tumoural effector T-cells were seen in some responding patients. Patients having clinical benefit had high baseline inflammatory signature on RNAseq analyses. Conclusions Guadecitabine in combination with pembrolizumab is tolerable with biological and anticancer activity. Reversal of previous resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitors is demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Wei Yuan
- Cancer Biomarkers Team, Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, UK
| | - Abhijit Pal
- Drug Development Unit, Royal Marsden Hospital/Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, UK
| | - Mateus Crespo
- Cancer Biomarkers Team, Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, UK
| | - Ana Ferreira
- Cancer Biomarkers Team, Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, UK
| | - Bora Gurel
- Cancer Biomarkers Team, Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, UK
| | - Toby Prout
- Drug Development Unit - Investigator Initiated Trials Team, Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, UK
| | - Malaka Ameratunga
- Drug Development Unit, Royal Marsden Hospital/Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, UK
| | | | - Andra Curcean
- Drug Development Unit, Royal Marsden Hospital/Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, UK
| | - Claudia Bertan
- Cancer Biomarkers Team, Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, UK
| | - Chloe Baker
- Cancer Biomarkers Team, Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, UK
| | - Susana Miranda
- Cancer Biomarkers Team, Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, UK
| | - Nahal Masrour
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Wentin Chen
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Rita Pereira
- Cancer Biomarkers Team, Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, UK
| | - Ines Figueiredo
- Cancer Biomarkers Team, Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, UK
| | - Ricardo Morilla
- Drug Development Unit, Royal Marsden Hospital/Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, UK
| | - Ben Jenkins
- Clinical Trials and Statistics Unit, Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, UK
| | - Anna Zachariou
- Drug Development Unit - Investigator Initiated Trials Team, Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, UK
| | - Ruth Riisnaes
- Cancer Biomarkers Team, Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, UK
| | - Mona Parmar
- Drug Development Unit - Investigator Initiated Trials Team, Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, UK
| | - Alison Turner
- Drug Development Unit - Investigator Initiated Trials Team, Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, UK
| | - Suzanne Carreira
- Cancer Biomarkers Team, Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, UK
| | - Christina Yap
- Clinical Trials and Statistics Unit, Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, UK
| | - Robert Brown
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Nina Tunariu
- Drug Development Unit, Royal Marsden Hospital/Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, UK
| | - Udai Banerji
- Drug Development Unit, Royal Marsden Hospital/Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, UK
| | - Juanita Lopez
- Drug Development Unit, Royal Marsden Hospital/Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, UK
| | - Johann de Bono
- Cancer Biomarkers Team, Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, UK.,Drug Development Unit, Royal Marsden Hospital/Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, UK
| | - Anna Minchom
- Drug Development Unit, Royal Marsden Hospital/Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, UK
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Prebet T, Goldberg AD, Jurcic JG, Khaled S, Dail M, Feng Y, Green C, Li C, Ma C, Medeiros BC, Yan M, Grunwald MR. A phase 1b study of atezolizumab in combination with guadecitabine for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia. Leuk Lymphoma 2022; 63:2180-2188. [DOI: 10.1080/10428194.2022.2057484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Prebet
- Hematology, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, United States
| | - Aaron D. Goldberg
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, United States
| | - Joseph G. Jurcic
- Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, United States
| | | | - Monique Dail
- Genentech, Inc, South San Francisco, California, United States
| | - Yuning Feng
- Genentech, Inc, South San Francisco, California, United States
| | - Cherie Green
- Genentech, Inc, South San Francisco, California, United States
| | - Chunze Li
- Genentech, Inc, South San Francisco, California, United States
| | - Connie Ma
- Genentech, Inc, South San Francisco, California, United States
| | | | - Mark Yan
- Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michael R. Grunwald
- Levine Cancer Institute, Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina, United States
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scTEM-seq: Single-cell analysis of transposable element methylation to link global epigenetic heterogeneity with transcriptional programs. Sci Rep 2022; 12:5776. [PMID: 35388081 PMCID: PMC8986802 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-09765-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Global changes in DNA methylation are observed in development and disease, and single-cell analyses are highlighting the heterogeneous regulation of these processes. However, technical challenges associated with single-cell analysis of DNA methylation limit these studies. We present single-cell transposable element methylation sequencing (scTEM-seq) for cost-effective estimation of average DNA methylation levels. By targeting high-copy SINE Alu elements, we achieve amplicon bisulphite sequencing with thousands of loci covered in each scTEM-seq library. Parallel transcriptome analysis is also performed to link global DNA methylation estimates with gene expression. We apply scTEM-seq to KG1a acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) cells, and primary AML cells. Our method reveals global DNA methylation heterogeneity induced by decitabine treatment of KG1a cells associated with altered expression of immune process genes. We also compare global DNA methylation estimates to expression of transposable elements and find a predominance of negative correlations. Finally, we observe co-ordinated upregulation of many transposable elements in a sub-set of decitabine treated cells. By linking global DNA methylation heterogeneity with transcription, scTEM-seq will refine our understanding of epigenetic regulation in cancer and beyond.
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28
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Chai P, Jia R, Li Y, Zhou C, Gu X, Yang L, Shi H, Tian H, Lin H, Yu J, Zhuang A, Ge S, Jia R, Fan X. Regulation of epigenetic homeostasis in uveal melanoma and retinoblastoma. Prog Retin Eye Res 2021; 89:101030. [PMID: 34861419 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2021.101030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Uveal melanoma (UM) and retinoblastoma (RB), which cause blindness and even death, are the most frequently observed primary intraocular malignancies in adults and children, respectively. Epigenetic studies have shown that changes in the epigenome contribute to the rapid progression of both UM and RB following classic genetic changes. The loss of epigenetic homeostasis plays an important role in oncogenesis by disrupting the normal patterns of gene expression. The targetable nature of epigenetic modifications provides a unique opportunity to optimize treatment paradigms and establish new therapeutic options for both UM and RB with these aberrant epigenetic modifications. We aimed to review the research findings regarding relevant epigenetic changes in UM and RB. Herein, we 1) summarize the literature, with an emphasis on epigenetic alterations, including DNA methylation, histone modifications, RNA modifications, noncoding RNAs and an abnormal chromosomal architecture; 2) elaborate on the regulatory role of epigenetic modifications in biological processes during tumorigenesis; and 3) propose promising therapeutic candidates for epigenetic targets and update the list of epigenetic drugs for the treatment of UM and RB. In summary, we endeavour to depict the epigenetic landscape of primary intraocular malignancy tumorigenesis and provide potential epigenetic targets in the treatment of these tumours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peiwei Chai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200025, PR China
| | - Ruobing Jia
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200025, PR China
| | - Yongyun Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200025, PR China
| | - Chuandi Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200025, PR China
| | - Xiang Gu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200025, PR China
| | - Ludi Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200025, PR China
| | - Hanhan Shi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200025, PR China
| | - Hao Tian
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200025, PR China
| | - Huimin Lin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200025, PR China
| | - Jie Yu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200025, PR China
| | - Ai Zhuang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200025, PR China
| | - Shengfang Ge
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200025, PR China
| | - Renbing Jia
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200025, PR China
| | - Xianqun Fan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200025, PR China.
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Epigenetic Mechanisms and Therapeutic Targets in Chemoresistant High-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13235993. [PMID: 34885103 PMCID: PMC8657426 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13235993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
High-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) is the most common ovarian cancer subtype, and the overall survival rate has not improved in the last three decades. Currently, most patients develop recurrent disease within 3 years and succumb to the disease within 5 years. This is an important area of research, as the major obstacle to the treatment of HGSOC is the development of resistance to platinum chemotherapy. The cause of chemoresistance is still largely unknown and may be due to epigenetics modifications that are driving HGSOC metastasis and treatment resistance. The identification of epigenetic changes in chemoresistant HGSOC enables the development of epigenetic modulating drugs that may be used to improve outcomes. Several epigenetic modulating drugs have displayed promise as drug targets for HGSOC, such as demethylating agents azacitidine and decitabine. Others, such as histone deacetylase inhibitors and miRNA-targeting therapies, demonstrated promising preclinical results but resulted in off-target side effects in clinical trials. This article reviews the epigenetic modifications identified in chemoresistant HGSOC and clinical trials utilizing epigenetic therapies in HGSOC.
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Makowka P, Stolp V, Stoschek K, Serve H. Molecular determinants of therapy response of venetoclax-based combinations in acute myeloid leukemia. Biol Chem 2021; 402:1547-1564. [PMID: 34700366 DOI: 10.1515/hsz-2021-0288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogeneous, highly malignant disease of the bone marrow. After decades of slow progress, recent years saw a surge of novel agents for its treatment. The most recent advancement is the registration of the Bcl-2 inhibitor ventoclax in combination with a hypomethylating agent (HMA) in the US and Europe for AML patients not eligible for intensive chemotherapy. Treatment of newly diagnosed AML patients with this combination results in remission rates that so far could only be achieved with intensive treatment. However, not all AML patients respond equally well, and some patients relapse early, while other patients experience longer periods of complete remission. A hallmark of AML is its remarkable genetic, molecular and clinical heterogeneity. Here, we review the current knowledge about molecular features of AML that help estimate the probability of response to venetoclax-containing therapies. In contrast to other newly developed AML therapies that target specific recurrent molecular alterations, it seems so far that responses are not specific for a certain subgroup. One exception is spliceosome mutations, where good response has been observed in clinical trials with venetoclax/azacitidine. These mutations are rather associated with a more unfavorable outcome with chemotherapy. In summary, venetoclax in combination with hypomethylating agents represents a significant novel option for AML patients with various molecular aberrations. Mechanisms of primary and secondary resistance seem to overlap with those towards chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Makowka
- Department of Medicine 2, Hematology, Oncology, Hemostaseology, Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, Goethe University, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, D-60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), partner site Frankfurt and DKFZ, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Verena Stolp
- Department of Medicine 2, Hematology, Oncology, Hemostaseology, Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, Goethe University, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, D-60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), partner site Frankfurt and DKFZ, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Karoline Stoschek
- Department of Medicine 2, Hematology, Oncology, Hemostaseology, Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, Goethe University, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, D-60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Frankfurt Cancer Institute (FCI), D-60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Hubert Serve
- Department of Medicine 2, Hematology, Oncology, Hemostaseology, Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, Goethe University, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, D-60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), partner site Frankfurt and DKFZ, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Frankfurt Cancer Institute (FCI), D-60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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Du Y, Han M, Cao K, Li Q, Pang J, Dou L, Liu S, Shi Z, Yan F, Feng S. Gold Nanorods Exhibit Intrinsic Therapeutic Activity via Controlling N6-Methyladenosine-Based Epitranscriptomics in Acute Myeloid Leukemia. ACS NANO 2021; 15:17689-17704. [PMID: 34694795 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.1c05547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Reprograming the N6-methyladenosine (m6A) landscape is a promising therapeutic strategy against recalcitrant leukemia. In this study, we synthesized gold nanorods (GNRs) of different aspect ratios using a binary surfactant mixture of hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide and sodium oleate. Following surface functionalization with chitosan and a 12-mer peptide, GNRa-CSP12 measuring 130 × 21 nm2 was selectively taken up by leukemia cells via targeted endocytosis. Low doses of GNRa-CSP12 inhibited the growth of leukemia cells by disrupting the redox balance and inducing ferroptosis. Mechanistically, GNRa-CSP12 abrogated endogenous Fe2+-dependent m6A demethylase activity, which led to global m6A hypomethylation and post-transcriptional regulation of downstream genes that are involved in glycolysis, hypoxia, and immune checkpoint pathways. In addition, combination treatment with GNRa-CSP12 and tyrosine kinases inhibitors (TKIs) synergistically obviated the m6A-mediated TKI resistance phenotype. Finally, GNRa-CSP12 as a potential immunotherapeutic agent could enhance immunotherapy outcome in leukemia. Our preclinical findings provide the proof-of-concept for targeting m6A-methylation-based epitranscriptomics using nanoparticle as an "epigenetic drug" for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangyang Du
- State Key Laboratory of Inorganic Synthesis and Preparative Chemistry, International Joint Research Laboratory of Nano-Micro Architecture Chemistry (NMAC), International Research Center for Chemistry-Medicine Joint Innovation, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Mingda Han
- State Key Laboratory of Inorganic Synthesis and Preparative Chemistry, International Joint Research Laboratory of Nano-Micro Architecture Chemistry (NMAC), International Research Center for Chemistry-Medicine Joint Innovation, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Kunxia Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Inorganic Synthesis and Preparative Chemistry, International Joint Research Laboratory of Nano-Micro Architecture Chemistry (NMAC), International Research Center for Chemistry-Medicine Joint Innovation, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Qing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Inorganic Synthesis and Preparative Chemistry, International Joint Research Laboratory of Nano-Micro Architecture Chemistry (NMAC), International Research Center for Chemistry-Medicine Joint Innovation, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Jiuxia Pang
- The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, 801 16th Avenue NE, Austin, Minnesota 55912, United States
| | - Liping Dou
- Department of Hematology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, 28 Fuxing Road, 100853 Beijing, China
| | - Shujun Liu
- The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, 801 16th Avenue NE, Austin, Minnesota 55912, United States
| | - Zhan Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Inorganic Synthesis and Preparative Chemistry, International Joint Research Laboratory of Nano-Micro Architecture Chemistry (NMAC), International Research Center for Chemistry-Medicine Joint Innovation, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Fei Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Inorganic Synthesis and Preparative Chemistry, International Joint Research Laboratory of Nano-Micro Architecture Chemistry (NMAC), International Research Center for Chemistry-Medicine Joint Innovation, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Shouhua Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Inorganic Synthesis and Preparative Chemistry, International Joint Research Laboratory of Nano-Micro Architecture Chemistry (NMAC), International Research Center for Chemistry-Medicine Joint Innovation, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China
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Evolving Therapeutic Approaches for Older Patients with Acute Myeloid Leukemia in 2021. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13205075. [PMID: 34680226 PMCID: PMC8534216 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13205075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The better understanding of disease biology, the availability of new effective drugs and the increased awareness of patients’ heterogeneity in terms of fitness and personal expectations has made the current treatment paradigm of AML in the elderly very challenging. Here, we discuss the evolving criteria used to define eligibility for induction chemotherapy and transplantation, the introduction of new agents in the treatment of patients with very different clinical conditions, the implications of precision medicine and the importance of quality of life and supportive care, proposing a simplified algorithm that we follow in 2021. Abstract Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in older patients is characterized by unfavorable prognosis due to adverse disease features and a high rate of treatment-related complications. Classical therapeutic options range from intensive chemotherapy in fit patients, potentially followed by allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT), to hypomethylating agents or palliative care alone for unfit/frail ones. In the era of precision medicine, the treatment paradigm of AML is rapidly changing. On the one hand, a plethora of new targeted drugs with good tolerability profiles are becoming available, offering the possibility to achieve a prolonged remission to many patients not otherwise eligible for more intensive therapies. On the other hand, better tools to assess patients’ fitness and improvements in the selection and management of those undergoing allo-HCT will hopefully reduce treatment-related mortality and complications. Importantly, a detailed genetic characterization of AML has become of paramount importance to choose the best therapeutic option in both intensively treated and unfit patients. Finally, improving supportive care and quality of life is of major importance in this age group, especially for the minority of patients that are still candidates for palliative care because of very poor clinical conditions or unwillingness to receive active treatments. In the present review, we discuss the evolving approaches in the treatment of older AML patients, which is becoming increasingly challenging following the advent of new effective drugs for a very heterogeneous and complex population.
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Xiao W, Zhou Q, Wen X, Wang R, Liu R, Wang T, Shi J, Hu Y, Hou J. Small-Molecule Inhibitors Overcome Epigenetic Reprogramming for Cancer Therapy. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:702360. [PMID: 34603017 PMCID: PMC8484527 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.702360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer treatment is a significant challenge for the global health system, although various pharmacological and therapeutic discoveries have been made. It has been widely established that cancer is associated with epigenetic modification, which is reversible and becomes an attractive target for drug development. Adding chemical groups to the DNA backbone and modifying histone proteins impart distinct characteristics on chromatin architecture. This process is mediated by various enzymes modifying chromatin structures to achieve the diversity of epigenetic space and the intricacy in gene expression files. After decades of effort, epigenetic modification has represented the hallmarks of different cancer types, and the enzymes involved in this process have provided novel targets for antitumor therapy development. Epigenetic drugs show significant effects on both preclinical and clinical studies in which the target development and research offer a promising direction for cancer therapy. Here, we summarize the different types of epigenetic enzymes which target corresponding protein domains, emphasize DNA methylation, histone modifications, and microRNA-mediated cooperation with epigenetic modification, and highlight recent achievements in developing targets for epigenetic inhibitor therapy. This article reviews current anticancer small-molecule inhibitors targeting epigenetic modified enzymes and displays their performances in different stages of clinical trials. Future studies are further needed to address their off-target effects and cytotoxicity to improve their clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjing Xiao
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Pharmacy, The General Hospital of Western Theater Command of PLA, Chengdu, China
| | - Qiaodan Zhou
- Department of Ultrasonic, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Xudong Wen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Chengdu First People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Rui Wang
- Information Department of Medical Security Center, The General Hospital of Western Theater Command of PLA, Chengdu, China
| | - Ruijie Liu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China
| | - Tingting Wang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jianyou Shi
- Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Yonghe Hu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Pharmacy, The General Hospital of Western Theater Command of PLA, Chengdu, China
| | - Jun Hou
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Pharmacy, The General Hospital of Western Theater Command of PLA, Chengdu, China
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34
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Lee P, Yim R, Yung Y, Chu HT, Yip PK, Gill H. Molecular Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy for Myelodysplastic Syndrome. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:10232. [PMID: 34638574 PMCID: PMC8508686 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) is a heterogeneous, clonal hematological disorder characterized by ineffective hematopoiesis, cytopenia, morphologic dysplasia, and predisposition to acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Stem cell genomic instability, microenvironmental aberrations, and somatic mutations contribute to leukemic transformation. The hypomethylating agents (HMAs), azacitidine and decitabine are the standard of care for patients with higher-risk MDS. Although these agents induce responses in up to 40-60% of patients, primary or secondary drug resistance is relatively common. To improve the treatment outcome, combinational therapies comprising HMA with targeted therapy or immunotherapy are being evaluated and are under continuous development. This review provides a comprehensive update of the molecular pathogenesis and immune-dysregulations involved in MDS, mechanisms of resistance to HMA, and strategies to overcome HMA resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Harinder Gill
- Division of Haematology, Medical Oncology and Haemopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Department of Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (P.L.); (R.Y.); (Y.Y.); (H.-T.C.); (P.-K.Y.)
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Taylor K, Loo Yau H, Chakravarthy A, Wang B, Shen SY, Ettayebi I, Ishak CA, Bedard PL, Abdul Razak A, R Hansen A, Spreafico A, Cescon D, Butler MO, Oza AM, Lheureux S, Stjepanovic N, Van As B, Boross-Harmer S, Wang L, Pugh TJ, Ohashi PS, Siu LL, De Carvalho DD. An open-label, phase II multicohort study of an oral hypomethylating agent CC-486 and durvalumab in advanced solid tumors. J Immunother Cancer 2021; 8:jitc-2020-000883. [PMID: 32753546 PMCID: PMC7406114 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2020-000883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To evaluate whether administration of the oral DNA hypomethylating agent CC-486 enhances the poor response rate of immunologically ‘cold’ solid tumors to immune checkpoint inhibitor durvalumab. Experimental design PD-L1/PD-1 inhibitor naïve patients with advanced microsatellite stable colorectal cancer; platinum resistant ovarian cancer; and estrogen receptor positive, HER2 negative breast cancer were enrolled in this single-institution, investigator-initiated trial. Two 28 day regimens, regimen A (CC-486 300 mg QD Days 1–14 (cycles 1–3 only) in combination with durvalumab 1500 mg intravenous day 15) and regimen B (CC-486 100 mg QD days 1–21 (cycle 1 and beyond), vitamin C 500 mg once a day continuously and durvalumab 1500 mg intravenous day 15) were investigated. Patients underwent paired tumor biopsies and serial peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) collection for immune-profiling, transcriptomic and epigenomic analyzes. Results A total of 28 patients were enrolled, 19 patients treated on regimen A and 9 on regimen B. The combination of CC-486 and durvalumab was tolerable. Regimen B, with a lower dose of CC-486 extended over a longer treatment course, showed less grade 3/4 adverse effects. Global LINE-1 methylation assessment of serial PBMCs and genome-wide DNA methylation profile in paired tumor biopsies demonstrated minimal changes in global methylation in both regimens. The lack of robust tumor DNA demethylation was accompanied by an absence of the expected ‘viral mimicry’ inflammatory response, and consequently, no clinical responses were observed. The disease control rate was 7.1%. The median progression-free survival was 1.9 months (95% CI 1.5 to 2.3) and median overall survival was 5 months (95% CI 4.5 to 10). Conclusions The evaluated treatment schedules of CC-486 in combination with durvalumab did not demonstrate robust pharmacodynamic or clinical activity in selected immunologically cold solid tumors. Lessons learned from this biomarker-rich study should inform continued drug development efforts using these agents. Trial registration number NCT02811497.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsty Taylor
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Helen Loo Yau
- Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ankur Chakravarthy
- Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Genetics and Epigenetics, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ben Wang
- Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Immuno-Oncology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Shu Yi Shen
- Genetics and Epigenetics, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ilias Ettayebi
- Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Charles A Ishak
- Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Genetics and Epigenetics, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Philippe L Bedard
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Albiruni Abdul Razak
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Aaron R Hansen
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anna Spreafico
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Dave Cescon
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Marcus O Butler
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Amit M Oza
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Stephanie Lheureux
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Neda Stjepanovic
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Brendan Van As
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sarah Boross-Harmer
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lisa Wang
- Biostatistics, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Trevor J Pugh
- Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Genomics, Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Pamela S Ohashi
- Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Immuno-Oncology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lillian L Siu
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Daniel D De Carvalho
- Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada .,Genetics and Epigenetics, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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TET2 as a tumor suppressor and therapeutic target in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2110758118. [PMID: 34413196 PMCID: PMC8403940 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2110758118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pediatric T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is an aggressive malignancy in need of novel targeted therapies to prevent relapse and lessen treatment toxicity. We reveal frequent (∼88%) transcriptional silencing or repression of the tumor suppressor TET2 in T-ALL. We show that loss of TET2 in T-ALL is correlated with hypermethylation of the TET2 promoter and that TET2 expression can be rescued by treatment with the DNA demethylating agent, 5-azacytidine (5-aza). We further reveal that the TET2 cofactor vitamin C exerts a strong synergistic effect on global transcriptional changes when added to 5-aza treatment. Importantly, 5-aza treatment results in increased cell death, specifically in T-ALL cells lacking TET2. Thus, we clearly identify 5-aza as a potentially targeted therapy for TET2-silenced T-ALL. Pediatric T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is an aggressive malignancy resulting from overproduction of immature T-cells in the thymus and is typified by widespread alterations in DNA methylation. As survival rates for relapsed T-ALL remain dismal (10 to 25%), development of targeted therapies to prevent relapse is key to improving prognosis. Whereas mutations in the DNA demethylating enzyme TET2 are frequent in adult T-cell malignancies, TET2 mutations in T-ALL are rare. Here, we analyzed RNA-sequencing data of 321 primary T-ALLs, 20 T-ALL cell lines, and 25 normal human tissues, revealing that TET2 is transcriptionally repressed or silenced in 71% and 17% of T-ALL, respectively. Furthermore, we show that TET2 silencing is often associated with hypermethylation of the TET2 promoter in primary T-ALL. Importantly, treatment with the DNA demethylating agent, 5-azacytidine (5-aza), was significantly more toxic to TET2-silenced T-ALL cells and resulted in stable re-expression of the TET2 gene. Additionally, 5-aza led to up-regulation of methylated genes and human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs), which was further enhanced by the addition of physiological levels of vitamin C, a potent enhancer of TET activity. Together, our results clearly identify 5-aza as a potential targeted therapy for TET2-silenced T-ALL.
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Sharma R, Lythgoe MP, Slaich B, Patel N. Exploring the Epigenome in Gastroenteropancreatic Neuroendocrine Neoplasias. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:4181. [PMID: 34439335 PMCID: PMC8394968 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13164181] [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: 06/22/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasias are a diverse group of neoplasms with different characteristics in terms of site, biological behaviour and metastatic potential. In comparison to other cancers, they are genetically quiet, harbouring relatively few somatic mutations. It is increasingly becoming evident that epigenetic changes are as relevant, if not more so, as somatic mutations in promoting oncogenesis. Despite significant tumour heterogeneity, it is obvious that DNA methylation, histone and chromatin modifications and microRNA expression profiles are distinctive for GEP-NEN subtypes and may correlate with clinical outcome. This review summarises existing knowledge on epigenetic changes, identifying potential contributions to pathogenesis and oncogenesis. In particular, we focus on epigenetic changes pertaining to well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumours, which make up the bulk of NENs. We also highlight both similarities and differences within the subtypes of GEP-NETs and how these relate and compare to other types of cancers. We relate epigenetic understanding to existing treatments and explore how this knowledge may be exploited in the development of novel treatment approaches, such as in theranostics and combining conventional treatment modalities. We consider potential barriers to epigenetic research in GEP-NENs and discuss strategies to optimise research and development of new therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohini Sharma
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London W12 ONN, UK;
| | - Mark P. Lythgoe
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London W12 ONN, UK;
| | - Bhavandeep Slaich
- Department of Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK; (B.S.); (N.P.)
| | - Nishil Patel
- Department of Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK; (B.S.); (N.P.)
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38
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Yadav P, Bandyopadhayaya S, Ford BM, Mandal C. Interplay between DNA Methyltransferase 1 and microRNAs During Tumorigenesis. Curr Drug Targets 2021; 22:1129-1148. [PMID: 33494674 DOI: 10.2174/1389450122666210120141546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is a genetic disease resulting from genomic changes; however, epigenetic alterations act synergistically with these changes during tumorigenesis and cancer progression. Epigenetic variations are gaining more attention as an important regulator in tumor progression, metastasis and therapy resistance. Aberrant DNA methylation at CpG islands is a central event in epigeneticmediated gene silencing of various tumor suppressor genes. DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) predominately methylates at CpG islands on hemimethylated DNA substrates in proliferation of cells. DNMT1 has been shown to be overexpressed in various cancer types and exhibits tumor-promoting potential. The major drawbacks to DNMT1-targeted cancer therapy are the adverse effects arising from nucleoside and non-nucleoside based DNMT1 inhibitors. This paper focuses on the regulation of DNMT1 by various microRNAs (miRNAs), which may be assigned as future DNMT1 modulators, and highlights how DNMT1 regulates various miRNAs involved in tumor suppression. Importantly, the role of reciprocal inhibition between DNMT1 and certain miRNAs in tumorigenic potential is approached in this review. Hence, this review seeks to project an efficient and strategic approach using certain miRNAs in conjunction with conventional DNMT1 inhibitors as a novel cancer therapy. It has also been pinpointed to select miRNA candidates associated with DNMT1 regulation that may not only serve as potential biomarkers for cancer diagnosis and prognosis, but may also predict the existence of aberrant methylation activity in cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooja Yadav
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Rajasthan, NH-8, Bandarsindri, Kishangarh- 305817, Ajmer, Rajasthan, India
| | - Shreetama Bandyopadhayaya
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Rajasthan, NH-8, Bandarsindri, Kishangarh- 305817, Ajmer, Rajasthan, India
| | - Bridget M Ford
- Department of Biology, University of the Incarnate Word, San Antonio, TX 78209, United States
| | - Chandi Mandal
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Rajasthan, NH-8, Bandarsindri, Kishangarh- 305817, Ajmer, Rajasthan, India
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Sorrentino VG, Thota S, Gonzalez EA, Rameshwar P, Chang VT, Etchegaray JP. Hypomethylating Chemotherapeutic Agents as Therapy for Myelodysplastic Syndromes and Prevention of Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:641. [PMID: 34358067 PMCID: PMC8308509 DOI: 10.3390/ph14070641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDSs) affect the elderly and can progress to Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). Epigenetic alterations including DNA methylation and chromatin modification may contribute to the initiation and progression of these malignancies. DNA hypomethylating agents such as decitabine and azacitidine are used as therapeutic treatments and have shown to promote expression of genes involved in tumor suppression, apoptosis, and immune response. Another anti-cancer drug, the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib, is used as a chemotherapeutic treatment for multiple myeloma (MM). Phase III clinical trials of decitabine and azacitidine used alone and in combination with other chemotherapeutics demonstrated their capacity to treat hematological malignancies and prolong the survival of MDS and AML patients. Although phase III clinical trials examining bortezomib's role in MDS and AML patients are limited, its underlying mechanisms in MM highlight its potential as a chemotherapeutic for such malignancies. Further research is needed to better understand how the epigenetic mechanisms mediated by these chemotherapeutic agents and their targeted gene networks are associated with the development and progression of MDS into AML. This review discusses the mechanisms by which decitabine, azacitidine, and bortezomib alter epigenetic programs and their results from phase III clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent G. Sorrentino
- Department of Biological Sciences, Rutgers University—Newark, Newark, NJ 07102, USA; (V.G.S.); (S.T.); (E.A.G.)
| | - Srijan Thota
- Department of Biological Sciences, Rutgers University—Newark, Newark, NJ 07102, USA; (V.G.S.); (S.T.); (E.A.G.)
| | - Edward A. Gonzalez
- Department of Biological Sciences, Rutgers University—Newark, Newark, NJ 07102, USA; (V.G.S.); (S.T.); (E.A.G.)
| | - Pranela Rameshwar
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA;
| | - Victor T. Chang
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA;
- Veteran Affairs New Jersey Health Care System, East Orange, NJ 07018, USA;
| | - Jean-Pierre Etchegaray
- Department of Biological Sciences, Rutgers University—Newark, Newark, NJ 07102, USA; (V.G.S.); (S.T.); (E.A.G.)
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40
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The Roles of DNA Demethylases in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14070628. [PMID: 34209564 PMCID: PMC8308559 DOI: 10.3390/ph14070628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancers (TNBCs) are very heterogenous, molecularly diverse, and are characterized by a high propensity to relapse or metastasize. Clinically, TNBC remains a diagnosis of exclusion by the lack of hormone receptors (Estrogen Receptor (ER) and Progesterone Receptor (PR)) as well as the absence of overexpression and/or amplification of HER2. DNA methylation plays an important role in breast cancer carcinogenesis and TNBCs have a distinct DNA methylation profile characterized by marked hypomethylation and lower gains of methylations compared to all other subtypes. DNA methylation is regulated by the balance of DNA methylases (DNMTs) and DNA demethylases (TETs). Here, we review the roles of TETs as context-dependent tumor-suppressor genes and/or oncogenes in solid tumors, and we discuss the current understandings of the oncogenic role of TET1 and its therapeutic implications in TNBCs.
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41
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Ozyerli-Goknar E, Bagci-Onder T. Epigenetic Deregulation of Apoptosis in Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:3210. [PMID: 34199020 PMCID: PMC8267644 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13133210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer cells possess the ability to evade apoptosis. Genetic alterations through mutations in key genes of the apoptotic signaling pathway represent a major adaptive mechanism of apoptosis evasion. In parallel, epigenetic changes via aberrant modifications of DNA and histones to regulate the expression of pro- and antiapoptotic signal mediators represent a major complementary mechanism in apoptosis regulation and therapy response. Most epigenetic changes are governed by the activity of chromatin modifying enzymes that add, remove, or recognize different marks on histones and DNA. Here, we discuss how apoptosis signaling components are deregulated at epigenetic levels, particularly focusing on the roles of chromatin-modifying enzymes in this process. We also review the advances in cancer therapies with epigenetic drugs such as DNMT, HMT, HDAC, and BET inhibitors, as well as their effects on apoptosis modulation in cancer cells. Rewiring the epigenome by drug interventions can provide therapeutic advantage for various cancers by reverting therapy resistance and leading cancer cells to undergo apoptotic cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ezgi Ozyerli-Goknar
- Brain Cancer Research and Therapy Laboratory, Koç University School of Medicine, Istanbul 34450, Turkey;
- Research Center for Translational Medicine, Koç University, Istanbul 34450, Turkey
| | - Tugba Bagci-Onder
- Brain Cancer Research and Therapy Laboratory, Koç University School of Medicine, Istanbul 34450, Turkey;
- Research Center for Translational Medicine, Koç University, Istanbul 34450, Turkey
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Viral Manipulation of the Host Epigenome as a Driver of Virus-Induced Oncogenesis. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9061179. [PMID: 34070716 PMCID: PMC8227491 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9061179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumorigenesis due to viral infection accounts for a high fraction of the total global cancer burden (15–20%) of all human cancers. A comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms by which viral infection leads to tumor development is extremely important. One of the main mechanisms by which viruses induce host cell proliferation programs is through controlling the host’s epigenetic machinery. In this review, we dissect the epigenetic pathways through which oncogenic viruses can integrate their genome into host cell chromosomes and lead to tumor progression. In addition, we highlight the potential use of drugs based on histone modifiers in reducing the global impact of cancer development due to viral infection.
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43
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Abstract
DNA methylation is an epigenetic modification that contributes to essential biological processes such as retrotransposon silencing, cell differentiation, genomic imprinting and X-chromosome inactivation. DNA methylation generates a stable epigenetic mark associated with silencing of gene expression. Aberrant DNA methylation is associated with the development of different tumor types. Reversing DNA methylation is a rational strategy to restore gene re-expression and induce cell differentiation in cancer. DNA hypomethylating agents is a class of drugs that demonstrated efficacy in different tumors. In this chapter, the classification of DNA hypomethylating agents, their pharmacodynamics and their potential drawbacks will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Gias Uddin
- Department of Pharmaceutical & Administrative Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Charleston, Charleston, WV, United States
| | - Tamer E Fandy
- Department of Pharmaceutical & Administrative Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Charleston, Charleston, WV, United States.
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44
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Tremblay D, Rippel N, Feld J, El Jamal SM, Mascarenhas J. Contemporary Risk Stratification and Treatment of Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukemia. Oncologist 2021; 26:406-421. [PMID: 33792103 PMCID: PMC8100553 DOI: 10.1002/onco.13769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML) is a hematologic malignancy characterized by absolute monocytosis, one or more lineage dysplasia, and proliferative features including myeloid hyperplasia, splenomegaly, and constitutional symptoms. Because of vast clinical heterogeneity in presentation and course, risk stratification is used for a risk-adapted treatment strategy. Numerous prognostic scoring systems exist, some of which incorporate mutational information. Treatment ranges from observation to allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Therapies include hydroxyurea for cytoreduction, hypomethylating agents, and the JAK1/2 inhibitor ruxolitinib to address splenomegaly and constitutional symptoms. Recently, oral decitabine with cedazuridine was approved and represents a convenient treatment option for CMML patients. Although novel therapeutics are in development for CMML, further work is needed to elucidate possible targets unique to the CMML clone. In this review, we will detail the pathophysiology, risk stratification, available treatment modalities, and novel therapies for CMML, and propose a modern treatment algorithm. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML) is a clinically heterogenous disease, which poses significant management challenges. The diagnosis of CMML requires bone marrow biopsy and aspirate with thorough evaluation. Risk stratification and symptom assessment are essential to designing an effective treatment plan, which may include hypomethylating agents (HMAs) in intermediate or high-risk patients. The recently approved oral decitabine/cedazuridine provides a convenient alternative to parenteral HMAs. Ruxolitinib may be effective in ameliorating proliferative symptoms and splenomegaly. Allogeneic stem cell transplantation remains the only treatment with curative potential; however, novel therapies are in clinical development which may significantly alter the therapeutic landscape of CMML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas Tremblay
- Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Noa Rippel
- Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Jonathan Feld
- Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Siraj M. El Jamal
- Department of Pathology, Molecular and Cell‐Based Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - John Mascarenhas
- Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
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45
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Jin N, George TL, Otterson GA, Verschraegen C, Wen H, Carbone D, Herman J, Bertino EM, He K. Advances in epigenetic therapeutics with focus on solid tumors. Clin Epigenetics 2021; 13:83. [PMID: 33879235 PMCID: PMC8056722 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-021-01069-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 04/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic ("above genetics") modifications can alter the gene expression without altering the DNA sequence. Aberrant epigenetic regulations in cancer include DNA methylation, histone methylation, histone acetylation, non-coding RNA, and mRNA methylation. Epigenetic-targeted agents have demonstrated clinical activities in hematological malignancies and therapeutic potential in solid tumors. In this review, we describe mechanisms of various epigenetic modifications, discuss the Food and Drug Administration-approved epigenetic agents, and focus on the current clinical investigations of novel epigenetic monotherapies and combination therapies in solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Jin
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center - Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Tiffany L George
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center - Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Gregory A Otterson
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center - Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Claire Verschraegen
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center - Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Haitao Wen
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center - Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - David Carbone
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center - Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - James Herman
- Department of Medicine, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Erin M Bertino
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center - Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, Columbus, OH, USA.
| | - Kai He
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center - Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, Columbus, OH, USA.
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Crabb SJ, Danson S, Catto JWF, Hussain S, Chan D, Dunkley D, Downs N, Marwood E, Day L, Saunders G, Light M, Whitehead A, Ellis D, Sarwar N, Enting D, Birtle A, Johnson B, Huddart R, Griffiths G. Phase I Trial of DNA Methyltransferase Inhibitor Guadecitabine Combined with Cisplatin and Gemcitabine for Solid Malignancies Including Urothelial Carcinoma (SPIRE). Clin Cancer Res 2021; 27:1882-1892. [PMID: 33472913 PMCID: PMC7611191 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-20-3946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Preclinical data indicate that DNA methyltransferase inhibition will circumvent cisplatin resistance in various cancers. PATIENT AND METHODS SPIRE comprised a dose-escalation phase for incurable metastatic solid cancers, followed by a randomized dose expansion phase for neoadjuvant treatment of T2-4a N0 M0 bladder urothelial carcinoma. The primary objective was a recommended phase II dose (RP2D) for guadecitabine combined with gemcitabine and cisplatin. Treatment comprised 21-day gemcitabine and cisplatin cycles (cisplatin 70 mg/m2, i.v., day 8 and gemcitabine 1,000 mg/m2, i.v., days 8 + 15). Guadecitabine was injected subcutaneously on days 1-5, within escalation phase cohorts, and to half of 20 patients in the expansion phase. Registration ID: ISRCTN 16332228. RESULTS Within the escalation phase, dose-limiting toxicities related predominantly to myelosuppression requiring G-CSF prophylaxis from cohort 2 (guadecitabine 20 mg/m2, days 1-5). The most common grade ≥3 adverse events in 17 patients in the dose-escalation phase were neutropenia (76.5%), thrombocytopenia (64.7%), leukopenia (29.4%), and anemia (29.4%). Addition of guadecitabine to gemcitabine and cisplatin in the expansion phase resulted in similar rates of severe hematologic adverse events, similar cisplatin dose intensity, but modestly reduced gemcitabine dose intensity. Radical treatment options after chemotherapy were not compromised. Pharmacodynamics evaluations indicated guadecitabine maximal target effect at the point of cisplatin administration. Pharmacokinetics were consistent with prior data. No treatment-related deaths occurred. CONCLUSIONS The guadecitabine RP2D was 20 mg/m2, days 1-5, in combination with gemcitabine and cisplatin and required GCSF prophylaxis. Gene promoter methylation pharmacodynamics are optimal with this schedule. Addition of guadecitabine to gemcitabine and cisplatin was tolerable, despite some additional myelosuppression, and warrants further investigation to assess efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon J Crabb
- Southampton Clinical Trials Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, England, United Kingdom.
- University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, England, United Kingdom
- Southampton Experimental Cancer Medicine Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton, England, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Danson
- Sheffield Experimental Cancer Medicine Centre, Weston Park Hospital, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, England, United Kingdom
| | - James W F Catto
- Academic Urology Unit, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, England, United Kingdom
| | - Syed Hussain
- Sheffield Experimental Cancer Medicine Centre, Weston Park Hospital, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, England, United Kingdom
| | - Danna Chan
- Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Pleasanton, California
| | - Denise Dunkley
- Southampton Clinical Trials Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, England, United Kingdom
- University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, England, United Kingdom
- Southampton Experimental Cancer Medicine Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton, England, United Kingdom
| | - Nichola Downs
- Southampton Clinical Trials Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, England, United Kingdom
- University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, England, United Kingdom
| | - Ellice Marwood
- Southampton Clinical Trials Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, England, United Kingdom
- University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, England, United Kingdom
| | - Laura Day
- Southampton Clinical Trials Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, England, United Kingdom
- University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, England, United Kingdom
| | - Geoff Saunders
- Southampton Clinical Trials Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, England, United Kingdom
- University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, England, United Kingdom
| | - Michelle Light
- Southampton Clinical Trials Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, England, United Kingdom
- University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, England, United Kingdom
| | - Amy Whitehead
- Southampton Clinical Trials Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, England, United Kingdom
- University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, England, United Kingdom
| | - Deborah Ellis
- Southampton Clinical Trials Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, England, United Kingdom
- University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, England, United Kingdom
| | - Naveed Sarwar
- Department of Oncology, Charing Cross Hospital, London, England, United Kingdom
| | - Deborah Enting
- Department of Oncology, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, England, United Kingdom
| | - Alison Birtle
- Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Preston, England, United Kingdom
| | | | - Robert Huddart
- The Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, England, United Kingdom
| | - Gareth Griffiths
- Southampton Clinical Trials Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, England, United Kingdom
- University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, England, United Kingdom
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Bewersdorf JP, Zeidan AM. Management of patients with higher-risk myelodysplastic syndromes after failure of hypomethylating agents: What is on the horizon? Best Pract Res Clin Haematol 2021; 34:101245. [PMID: 33762100 DOI: 10.1016/j.beha.2021.101245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The hypomethylating agents (HMA) azacitidine (AZA) and decitabine (DAC) are the standard of care for frontline treatment of patients with higher-risk myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). As complete responses to HMAs are rare and typically not durable, HMA failure is a common clinical dilemma and associated with very short survival in most patients. Salvage therapies with various agents such as novel HMAs (guadecitabine, CC-486), and CTLA-4/PD1-type immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICPIs) have yielded mixed and only modest results at best in MDS patients with HMA failure. Thanks to advances in the understanding of the molecular and biologic pathogenesis of MDS, several novel targeted agents such as the BCL-2 inhibitor venetoclax, TP-53 refolding agent APR-246, IDH1/2 inhibitors, and novel ICPIs such as magrolimab and sabatolimab have been developed and demonstrated activity in combination with HMA in the frontline setting. However, clinical testing of these agents post HMA failure has been limited to date. Furthermore, the biology of HMA failure remains poorly defined which significantly limits rationale drug development. This highlights the importance of optimization of frontline therapy to avoid/delay HMA failure in addition to development of more effective salvage therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Philipp Bewersdorf
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Hematology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Amer M Zeidan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Hematology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
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48
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McCullough KB, Kuhn AK, Patnaik MM. Treatment advances for pediatric and adult onset neoplasms with monocytosis. Curr Hematol Malig Rep 2021; 16:256-266. [PMID: 33728588 DOI: 10.1007/s11899-021-00622-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW For decades, the management of chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML) or juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML) has been largely inextricable from myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), myeloproliferative neoplasms, and acute myeloid leukemia. Hallmarks of these diseases have been the emergence of unique genomic signatures and discouraging responses to available therapies. Here, we will critically examine the current options for management and review the rapidly developing opportunities based on advances in CMML and JMML disease biology. RECENT FINDINGS Few clinical trials have exclusively been done in CMML, and in JMML, the rarity of the disease limits wide scale participation. Recent case series in JMML suggest that hypomethylating agents (HMAs) are a viable option for bridging to curative intent with allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant or as posttransplant maintenance. Emerging evidence has demonstrated targeting the RAS-pathway via MEK inhibition may also be considered. In CMML, treatment with HMAs is largely derived from data inclusive of MDS patients, including a small number of patients with dysplastic CMML variants. Based on CMML disease biology, additional therapeutic targets being investigated include inhibitors of splicing, CD123/dendritic cell axis, inherent GM-CSF progenitor cell hypersensitivity, and targeting the JAK/STAT pathway. Current evidence is also expanding for oral HMAs. The management of CMML and JMML is rapidly evolving and clinicians must be aware of the genetic landscape and expanding treatment options to ensure these rare populations are afforded therapeutic interventions best suited to their needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen B McCullough
- Department of Pharmacy Services, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA.
| | - Alexis K Kuhn
- Department of Pharmacy Services, Mayo Clinic, 200 1st Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Mrinal M Patnaik
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
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49
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Feng S, De Carvalho DD. Clinical advances in targeting epigenetics for cancer therapy. FEBS J 2021; 289:1214-1239. [DOI: 10.1111/febs.15750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shengrui Feng
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre University Health Network Toronto ON Canada
- Department of Medical Biophysics University of Toronto ON Canada
| | - Daniel D. De Carvalho
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre University Health Network Toronto ON Canada
- Department of Medical Biophysics University of Toronto ON Canada
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50
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Camacho-Ordonez N, Ballestar E, Timmers HTM, Grimbacher B. What can clinical immunology learn from inborn errors of epigenetic regulators? J Allergy Clin Immunol 2021; 147:1602-1618. [PMID: 33609625 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2021.01.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The epigenome is at the interface between environmental factors and the genome, regulating gene transcription, DNA repair, and replication. Epigenetic modifications play a crucial role in establishing and maintaining cell identity and are especially crucial for neurology, musculoskeletal integrity, and the function of the immune system. Mutations in genes encoding for the components of the epigenetic machinery lead to the development of distinct disorders, especially involving the central nervous system and host defense. In this review, we focus on the role of epigenetic modifications for the function of the immune system. By studying the immune phenotype of patients with monogenic mutations in components of the epigenetic machinery (inborn errors of epigenetic regulators), we demonstrate the importance of DNA methylation, histone modifications, chromatin remodeling, noncoding RNAs, and mRNA processing for immunity. Moreover, we give a short overview on therapeutic strategies targeting the epigenome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadezhda Camacho-Ordonez
- Institute for Immunodeficiency, Center for Chronic Immunodeficiency, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany; Faculty of Biology, Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Esteban Ballestar
- Epigenetics and Immune Disease Group, Josep Carreras Research Institute (IJC), Badalona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - H Th Marc Timmers
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), partner site Freiburg, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany; Department of Urology, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Bodo Grimbacher
- Institute for Immunodeficiency, Center for Chronic Immunodeficiency, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany; DZIF - German Center for Infection Research, Satellite Center Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany; CIBSS - Centre for Integrative Biological Signalling Studies, Albert-Ludwigs University, Freiburg, Germany; RESIST- Cluster of Excellence 2155 to Hanover Medical School, Satellite Center Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
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