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Drobyshev A, Modestov A, Suntsova M, Poddubskaya E, Seryakov A, Moisseev A, Sorokin M, Tkachev V, Zakharova G, Simonov A, Zolotovskaia MA, Buzdin A. Pan-cancer experimental characteristic of human transcriptional patterns connected with telomerase reverse transcriptase ( TERT) gene expression status. Front Genet 2024; 15:1401100. [PMID: 38859942 PMCID: PMC11163056 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2024.1401100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The TERT gene encodes the reverse transcriptase subunit of telomerase and is normally transcriptionally suppressed in differentiated human cells but reactivated in cancers where its expression is frequently associated with poor survival prognosis. Here we experimentally assessed the RNA sequencing expression patterns associated with TERT transcription in 1039 human cancer samples of 27 tumor types. We observed a bimodal distribution of TERT expression where ∼27% of cancer samples did not express TERT and the rest showed a bell-shaped distribution. Expression of TERT strongly correlated with 1443 human genes including 103 encoding transcriptional factor proteins. Comparison of TERT- positive and negative cancers showed the differential activation of 496 genes and 1975 molecular pathways. Therein, 32/38 (84%) of DNA repair pathways were hyperactivated in TERT+ cancers which was also connected with accelerated replication, transcription, translation, and cell cycle progression. In contrast, the level of 40 positive cell cycle regulator proteins and a set of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition pathways was specific for the TERT- group suggesting different proliferation strategies for both groups of cancer. Our pilot study showed that the TERT+ group had ∼13% of cancers with C228T or C250T mutated TERT promoter. However, the presence of promoter mutations was not associated with greater TERT expression compared with other TERT+ cancers, suggesting parallel mechanisms of its transcriptional activation in cancers. In addition, we detected a decreased expression of L1 retrotransposons in the TERT+ group, and further decreased L1 expression in promoter mutated TERT+ cancers. TERT expression was correlated with 17 genes encoding molecular targets of cancer therapeutics and may relate to differential survival patterns of TERT- positive and negative cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksey Drobyshev
- Endocrinology Research Center, Moscow, Russia
- Institute of Personalized Oncology, I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexander Modestov
- Institute of Personalized Oncology, I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Maria Suntsova
- Endocrinology Research Center, Moscow, Russia
- Institute of Personalized Oncology, I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Elena Poddubskaya
- Institute of Personalized Oncology, I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
- Clinical Center Vitamed, Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Aleksey Moisseev
- Institute of Personalized Oncology, I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Maksim Sorokin
- Endocrinology Research Center, Moscow, Russia
- Institute of Personalized Oncology, I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Galina Zakharova
- Institute of Personalized Oncology, I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Aleksander Simonov
- Institute of Personalized Oncology, I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Marianna A. Zolotovskaia
- Endocrinology Research Center, Moscow, Russia
- Institute of Personalized Oncology, I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
- Moscow Center for Advanced Studies 20, Moscow, Russia
| | - Anton Buzdin
- Endocrinology Research Center, Moscow, Russia
- Institute of Personalized Oncology, I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
- Moscow Center for Advanced Studies 20, Moscow, Russia
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Moscow, Russia
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Maloberti T, De Leo A, Coluccelli S, Sanza V, Gruppioni E, Altimari A, Comito F, Melotti B, Marchese PV, Dika E, Venturi F, Corti B, Ciccimarra G, Ciceu CA, Tallini G, de Biase D. Molecular Characterization of Advanced-Stage Melanomas in Clinical Practice Using a Laboratory-Developed Next-Generation Sequencing Panel. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:800. [PMID: 38667446 PMCID: PMC11048853 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14080800] [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: 03/09/2024] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous melanoma is one of the most lethal tumors among skin cancers, characterized by complex genetic and molecular alterations that result in uncontrolled cell proliferation and metastatic spread. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) enables the simultaneous examination of numerous genes, making this molecular technique essential for melanoma diagnosis, prognostic stratification, and therapy planning. Herein, we present the experience with our laboratory-designed NGS panel for the routine assessment of advanced-stage melanoma. A total of 260 specimens of advanced-stage melanomas were evaluated utilizing a laboratory-developed multi-gene NGS panel, which allowed the investigation of 229 amplicons in 25 oncogene/oncosuppressor genes. The NGS panel proved to be a reliable tool, failing to produce results in only 1.2% of the samples tested. BRAF and TERT were the two more commonly altered genes in 44.0% and 59.9% of samples, respectively. In 59.3% of the mutated cases, at least two concomitant variants were detected. In eight cases, both primary lesion and metastatic disease were analyzed by NGS. In all specimens (8/8, 100%), a perfect concordance in variants harbored by the primary and recurrence lesions was observed. Finally, this study described the validity of a laboratory-developed multi-gene NGS panel built specifically for advanced-stage melanomas in ordinary clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thais Maloberti
- Solid Tumor Molecular Pathology Laboratory, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (T.M.); (A.D.L.); (S.C.); (V.S.); (E.G.); (A.A.); (G.T.)
| | - Antonio De Leo
- Solid Tumor Molecular Pathology Laboratory, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (T.M.); (A.D.L.); (S.C.); (V.S.); (E.G.); (A.A.); (G.T.)
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (E.D.); (F.V.)
| | - Sara Coluccelli
- Solid Tumor Molecular Pathology Laboratory, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (T.M.); (A.D.L.); (S.C.); (V.S.); (E.G.); (A.A.); (G.T.)
| | - Viviana Sanza
- Solid Tumor Molecular Pathology Laboratory, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (T.M.); (A.D.L.); (S.C.); (V.S.); (E.G.); (A.A.); (G.T.)
| | - Elisa Gruppioni
- Solid Tumor Molecular Pathology Laboratory, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (T.M.); (A.D.L.); (S.C.); (V.S.); (E.G.); (A.A.); (G.T.)
| | - Annalisa Altimari
- Solid Tumor Molecular Pathology Laboratory, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (T.M.); (A.D.L.); (S.C.); (V.S.); (E.G.); (A.A.); (G.T.)
| | - Francesca Comito
- Oncology Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy (B.M.); (P.V.M.)
| | - Barbara Melotti
- Oncology Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy (B.M.); (P.V.M.)
| | - Paola Valeria Marchese
- Oncology Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy (B.M.); (P.V.M.)
| | - Emi Dika
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (E.D.); (F.V.)
- Oncologic Dermatology Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Federico Venturi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (E.D.); (F.V.)
- Oncologic Dermatology Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Barbara Corti
- Pathology Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Giulia Ciccimarra
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (G.C.); (C.A.C.)
| | - Crina Adriana Ciceu
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (G.C.); (C.A.C.)
| | - Giovanni Tallini
- Solid Tumor Molecular Pathology Laboratory, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (T.M.); (A.D.L.); (S.C.); (V.S.); (E.G.); (A.A.); (G.T.)
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (E.D.); (F.V.)
| | - Dario de Biase
- Solid Tumor Molecular Pathology Laboratory, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (T.M.); (A.D.L.); (S.C.); (V.S.); (E.G.); (A.A.); (G.T.)
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (G.C.); (C.A.C.)
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El Zarif T, Machaalani M, Nawfal R, Nassar AH, Xie W, Choueiri TK, Pomerantz M. TERT Promoter Mutations Frequency Across Race, Sex, and Cancer Type. Oncologist 2024; 29:8-14. [PMID: 37462445 PMCID: PMC10769781 DOI: 10.1093/oncolo/oyad208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) gene promoter mutations have been explored, as biomarkers of improved survival for patients with cancer receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors. We sought to investigate their prevalence by race and sex across different cancer types to inform patient selection in clinical trials. RESULTS In this observational study, 31 925 patients with cancer underwent next-generation sequencing of their tumors with 88% (27 970) patients self-reported being Whites, 7.1% (2273) Asians, and 5.3% (1682) Blacks. Examining the distribution of TERT promoter mutations by race, White patients with melanoma harbored more TERT promoter mutations than Asian and Black patients (OR = 25.83; 95%CI, 6.84-217.42; P < .001). In contrast, Asian patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) harbored more TERT promoter mutations compared to White patients (OR = 2.47; 95%CI, 1.39-4.37; P = .004). In addition, the distribution of TERT promoter mutations differed by sex. Males were enriched for TERT gene promoter mutations compared to females with melanoma (OR = 1.82; 95%CI, 1.53-2.16; P < .001), cancer of unknown primary (OR = 1.96; 95%CI, 1.43-2.69; P < .001), hepatobiliary (OR = 3.89; 95%CI, 2.65-5.69; P < .001), and thyroid cancers (OR = 1.42; 95%CI, 1.10-1.84; P = .0087), while females were more enriched for TERT promoter mutations compared to males for HNC (OR = 0.56; 95%CI, 0.39-0.81; P = .0021). CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of TERT gene promoter mutations varies among patients with cancer based on race and sex. These findings inform our understanding of cancer biology and can assist in the design of future clinical trials that leverage drugs targeting TERT promoter dependencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Talal El Zarif
- Lank Center for Genitourinary Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Marc Machaalani
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rashad Nawfal
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Amin H Nassar
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Wanling Xie
- Department of Data Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Toni K Choueiri
- Lank Center for Genitourinary Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mark Pomerantz
- Lank Center for Genitourinary Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Cho WC, Li W, Gu J, Wang WL, Ning J, Sfamenos S, Gill P, Nagarajan P, Curry JL, Lazar AJ, Prieto VG, Torres-Cabala CA, Aung PP. Telomerase reverse transcriptase immunohistochemical expression is sensitive but not specific for TERT gene amplification in acral melanoma. J Cutan Pathol 2023; 50:845-851. [PMID: 37400233 DOI: 10.1111/cup.14494] [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: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND TERT gene amplification (TGA) is a mechanism of telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) upregulation frequently utilized by acral melanomas (AMs). Currently, the utility of TERT immunohistochemistry (IHC) to predict TGA status in AMs is poorly documented. METHODS AMs (26 primary and 3 metastatic) and non-acral cutaneous melanomas (6 primary) were subjected to immunohistochemical analysis using anti-TERT antibody to demonstrate protein expression and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) to assess genomic copy number alteration. The relationship between TERT immunoreactivity and TGA confirmed by FISH was assessed using logistic regression. RESULTS TERT expression was seen in 50% (13/26) of primary and 100% (3/3) of metastatic AMs and 50% (3/6) of primary non-acral cutaneous melanomas. TGA was found in 15% (4/26) and 67% (2/3) of primary and metastatic AMs and 17% (1/6) of non-acral cutaneous melanomas. The intensity of TERT immunoreactivity correlated with TGA (p = 0.04) and a higher TERT copy number-to-control ratio in AMs, with a correlation coefficient of 0.41 (p = 0.03). The sensitivity and specificity of TERT immunoreactivity for predicting TGA in AMs were 100% and 57%, with corresponding positive and negative predictive values of 38% and 100%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The clinical utility of TERT IHC to predict TGA status in AMs appears to be limited given its low specificity and positive predictive value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Woo Cheal Cho
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Wen Li
- Division of Clinical and Translational Sciences, Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas McGovern Medical School at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
- Biostatistics/Epidemiology/Research Design (BERD) Component, Center for Clinical and Translational Sciences (CCTS), The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jun Gu
- Cytogenetics Training Laboratory, School of Health Professions, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Wei-Lien Wang
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jing Ning
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Steven Sfamenos
- Cytogenetics Training Laboratory, School of Health Professions, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Pavandeep Gill
- Department of Pathology, Royal Jubilee Hospital, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Priyadharsini Nagarajan
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jonathan L Curry
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Dermatology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Alexander J Lazar
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Dermatology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Victor G Prieto
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Dermatology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Carlos A Torres-Cabala
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Dermatology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Phyu P Aung
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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5
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Ellingsen EB, O'Day S, Mezheyeuski A, Gromadka A, Clancy T, Kristedja TS, Milhem M, Zakharia Y. Clinical Activity of Combined Telomerase Vaccination and Pembrolizumab in Advanced Melanoma: Results from a Phase I Trial. Clin Cancer Res 2023; 29:3026-3036. [PMID: 37378632 PMCID: PMC10425723 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-23-0416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Cancer vaccines represent a novel treatment modality with a complementary mode of action addressing a crucial bottleneck for checkpoint inhibitor (CPI) efficacy. CPIs are expected to release brakes in T-cell responses elicited by vaccination, leading to more robust immune responses. Increased antitumor T-cell responses may confer increased antitumor activity in patients with less immunogenic tumors, a subgroup expected to achieve reduced benefit from CPIs alone. In this trial, a telomerase-based vaccine was combined with pembrolizumab to assess the safety and clinical activity in patients with melanoma. PATIENTS AND METHODS Thirty treatment-naïve patients with advanced melanoma were enrolled. Patients received intradermal injections of UV1 with adjuvant GM-CSF at two dose levels, and pembrolizumab according to the label. Blood samples were assessed for vaccine-induced T-cell responses, and tumor tissues were collected for translational analyses. The primary endpoint was safety, with secondary objectives including progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and objective response rate (ORR). RESULTS The combination was considered safe and well-tolerated. Grade 3 adverse events were observed in 20% of patients, with no grade 4 or 5 adverse events reported. Vaccination-related adverse events were mostly mild injection site reactions. The median PFS was 18.9 months, and the 1- and 2-year OS rates were 86.7% and 73.3%, respectively. The ORR was 56.7%, with 33.3% achieving complete responses. Vaccine-induced immune responses were observed in evaluable patients, and inflammatory changes were detected in posttreatment biopsies. CONCLUSIONS Encouraging safety and preliminary efficacy were observed. Randomized phase II trials are currently ongoing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Espen B. Ellingsen
- Department of Tumor Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Ultimovacs ASA, Oslo, Norway
| | - Steven O'Day
- Providence Saint John's Cancer Institute, Santa Monica, California
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Yousef Zakharia
- University of Iowa and Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, Iowa City, Iowa
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Blanco-García L, Ruano Y, Blanco Martínez-Illescas R, Cubo R, Jiménez Sánchez P, Sánchez-Arévalo Lobo VJ, Riveiro Falkenbach E, Ortiz Romero P, Garrido MC, Rodríguez Peralto JL. pTERT C250T mutation: A potential biomarker of poor prognosis in metastatic melanoma. Heliyon 2023; 9:e18953. [PMID: 37609429 PMCID: PMC10440525 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e18953] [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: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is the most aggressive form of skin cancer and the leading cause of death from cutaneous tumors. Several studies have associated alterations in the TERT promoter region (pTERT) with gene overexpression, aggressiveness and poor prognosis of the disease. The aim of this study was to clarify the role of pTERT molecular status in paired samples of primary melanoma and metastasis using tissue and plasma to establish a correlation with disease progression and survival. A total of 88 FFPE tissue samples from 53 patients with advanced melanoma were analyzed. Of these, 35 had paired samples. We also examined cfDNA samples from plasma of 25 patients. We detected a good correlation between primary tumors and metastases in pTERT mutation and methylation status. We were also able to identify pTERT mutations in plasma samples that correlated with mutational status in tissue samples. Interestingly, the C250T mutation was associated with worse survival and higher TERT mRNA expression, compared to the other most common mutation: C228T. In addition, hyper-methylation of the promoter region seems to be related to the progression of pTERT wild type (WT) patients. These results suggest that TERT gene alterations plays an important role during tumor progression, with the detection of the C250T mutation in tissue and plasma as a potential biomarker of poor prognosis in patients with advanced melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yolanda Ruano
- Research Institute 12 de Octubre Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - Raquel Blanco Martínez-Illescas
- Research Institute 12 de Octubre Hospital, Madrid, Spain
- Biosanitary Research Institute, Faculty of Experimental Sciences, Francisco de Vitoria University, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rocío Cubo
- Research Institute 12 de Octubre Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - Paula Jiménez Sánchez
- Research Institute 12 de Octubre Hospital, Madrid, Spain
- Biosanitary Research Institute, Faculty of Experimental Sciences, Francisco de Vitoria University, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Víctor J. Sánchez-Arévalo Lobo
- Research Institute 12 de Octubre Hospital, Madrid, Spain
- Biosanitary Research Institute, Faculty of Experimental Sciences, Francisco de Vitoria University, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Pablo Ortiz Romero
- Department of Dermatology, 12 de Octubre University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - María C. Garrido
- Department of Pathology, 12 de Octubre University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
- Complutense University of Madrid; Madrid, Spain
| | - José L. Rodríguez Peralto
- Department of Pathology, 12 de Octubre University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
- Complutense University of Madrid; Madrid, Spain
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Boutko A, Asadbeigi S, Roth A, Lampley N, Olivares S, Dittmann D, Dittmann D, Jennings L, Gerami P. TERT Promoter Mutational Analysis as an Ancillary Diagnostic Tool for Diagnostically Challenging Melanocytic Neoplasms. Am J Dermatopathol 2023; 45:289-299. [PMID: 36898007 DOI: 10.1097/dad.0000000000002366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 03/12/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Telomerase reverse transcriptase promoter mutations (TPMs) have been shown to be common in melanoma and uncommon in benign nevi. To assess the use of TPMs as an ancillary diagnostic tool, we report the concordance of the TPM status with the final diagnosis in clinical cases with distinct differential diagnostic scenarios: dysplastic nevus versus melanoma, atypical Spitz nevus versus melanoma, atypical deep penetrating nevus (DPN) versus melanoma, and atypical blue nevus versus malignant blue nevus. In a control cohort, we found a positive TPM in 51/70 (73%) of the total melanomas with the highest frequency in vertical growth phase melanoma cases. Conversely, only 2/35 (6%) dysplastic nevi in our control cases were TPM-positive and b were severely atypical dysplastic nevi. Our clinical cohort of 257 cases had a positive TPM in 24% of cases diagnosed as melanoma and in 1% of cases with a benign diagnosis. The overall concordance of the TPM status with the final diagnosis was 86%. The TPM status had the greatest concordance (95%) with the final diagnosis in the atypical DPN versus melanoma group, with the rest of the groups ranging between 50% and 88%. Overall, our results suggest that TPMs are most useful in the differential diagnosis of atypical DPN versus melanoma. It also has some value in the differential diagnosis of atypical Spitz tumor versus melanoma and dysplastic nevus versus melanoma, whereas in our cohort, it did not contribute meaningfully to differentiating malignant blue nevus and atypical blue nevus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasiya Boutko
- Department of Dermatology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL; and
| | - Sepideh Asadbeigi
- Department of Dermatology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL; and
| | - Andrew Roth
- Department of Dermatology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL; and
| | - Nathaniel Lampley
- Department of Dermatology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL; and
| | - Shantel Olivares
- Department of Dermatology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL; and
| | - David Dittmann
- Department of Dermatology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL; and
| | - David Dittmann
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
| | - Lawrence Jennings
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
| | - Pedram Gerami
- Department of Dermatology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL; and
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8
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Dono A, Moosvi AM, Goli PS, Bellman AC, Aung PP, Esquenazi Y, Ballester LY. TERT Immunohistochemistry as a Surrogate Marker for TERT Promoter Mutations in Infiltrating Gliomas. Appl Immunohistochem Mol Morphol 2023; 31:288-294. [PMID: 36952585 PMCID: PMC10393218 DOI: 10.1097/pai.0000000000001118] [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: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2023]
Abstract
Genomic alterations are critical for the diagnosis, prognostication, and treatment of patients with infiltrating gliomas. Telomerase reverse transcriptase promoter ( TERT p) mutations are among such crucial alterations. Although DNA sequencing is the preferred method for identifying TERT p mutations, it has limitations related to cost and accessibility. We tested telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) immunohistochemistry (IHC) as a surrogate for TERT p mutations in infiltrating gliomas. Thirty-one infiltrating gliomas were assessed by IHC using an anti-TERT Y182 antibody. IHC results were analyzed by a board-certified neuropathologist. Tumors were analyzed by targeted next-generation sequencing. A literature review of the use of TERT antibodies as a surrogate for TERT p mutations was performed. Eighteen gliomas harbored TERT p mutations. Overall, TERT IHC demonstrated a sensitivity of 61.1% and a specificity of 69.2% for identifying TERT p mutations. Among the 19 IDH1/IDH2 -wild-type gliomas, 16 (84%) harbored TERT p mutations, and TERT IHC had a sensitivity of 62.5% and a specificity of 33.3%. Among the 12 IDH1/IDH2 -mutant gliomas, 2 (17%) harbored TERT p mutations, and TERT IHC had a sensitivity of 50% and a specificity of 80%. TERT IHC had low positive and negative likelihood values in the identification of TERT p mutations. The literature review included 5 studies with 645 patients and 4 different TERT antibodies. The results consistently showed poor sensitivity and specificity of TERT IHC for identifying TERT p mutations. TERT IHC is a suboptimal surrogate marker for TERT p mutations in infiltrating gliomas. The need remains for cost-effective, efficient, and accessible alternatives to next-generation sequencing for the evaluation of TERT p mutations in gliomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Dono
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
- Vivian L. Smith Department of Neurosurgery, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
| | | | | | | | - Phyu P. Aung
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
| | - Yoshua Esquenazi
- Vivian L. Smith Department of Neurosurgery, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
- Center for Precision Health, School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
- Memorial Hermann Hospital—TMC, Houston, TX
| | - Leomar Y. Ballester
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
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9
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Yang TT, Yu S, Ke CLK, Cheng ST. The Genomic Landscape of Melanoma and Its Therapeutic Implications. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:genes14051021. [PMID: 37239381 DOI: 10.3390/genes14051021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is one of the most aggressive malignancies of the skin. The genetic composition of melanoma is complex and varies among different subtypes. With the aid of recent technologies such as next generation sequencing and single-cell sequencing, our understanding of the genomic landscape of melanoma and its tumor microenvironment has become increasingly clear. These advances may provide explanation to the heterogenic treatment outcomes of melanoma patients under current therapeutic guidelines and provide further insights to the development of potential new therapeutic targets. Here, we provide a comprehensive review on the genetics related to melanoma tumorigenesis, metastasis, and prognosis. We also review the genetics affecting the melanoma tumor microenvironment and its relation to tumor progression and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting-Ting Yang
- Department of Dermatology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Department of Dermatology, Pingtung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Pingtung 900, Taiwan
| | - Sebastian Yu
- Department of Dermatology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Department of Dermatology, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Neuroscience Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Chiao-Li Khale Ke
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Municipal SiaoGang Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 812, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Tsung Cheng
- Department of Dermatology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Department of Dermatology, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
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10
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Ellingsen EB, Bjørheim J, Gaudernack G. Therapeutic cancer vaccination against telomerase: clinical developments in melanoma. Curr Opin Oncol 2023; 35:100-106. [PMID: 36700456 PMCID: PMC9894137 DOI: 10.1097/cco.0000000000000922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Checkpoint inhibitors (CPIs) have revolutionized treatment outcomes for patients with malignant melanoma. Long-term follow-up shows that a substantial subset of patients who exhibit clinical responses achieve extended overall survival. Nevertheless, most patients do not achieve durable benefit from CPIs, and improvements are urgently needed. The clinical efficacy of CPIs depends on highly variable preexisting spontaneous T-cell immune responses. Cancer vaccines represent an independent treatment modality uniquely capable of expanding the repertoire of tumor-specific T cells in cancer patients and thus have the capacity to compensate for the variability in spontaneous T-cell responses. Vaccines are, therefore, considered attractive components in a CPI-combination strategy. RECENT FINDINGS Here we discuss recent results obtained through therapeutic vaccination against telomerase human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT). Recent publications on translational research and clinical results from phase I trials indicate that vaccination against telomerase in combination with CPIs provides relevant immune responses, negligible added toxicity, and signals of clinical efficacy. CONCLUSION In the near future, randomized data from clinical trials involving therapeutic cancer vaccines and checkpoint inhibitors will be available. Positive readout may spark broad development and allow cancer vaccines to find their place in the clinic as an important component in multiple future CPI combinations.
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11
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Wagstaff W, Mwamba RN, Grullon K, Armstrong M, Zhao P, Hendren-Santiago B, Qin KH, Li AJ, Hu DA, Youssef A, Reid RR, Luu HH, Shen L, He TC, Haydon RC. Melanoma: Molecular genetics, metastasis, targeted therapies, immunotherapies, and therapeutic resistance. Genes Dis 2022; 9:1608-1623. [PMID: 36157497 PMCID: PMC9485270 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2022.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous melanoma is a common cancer and cases have steadily increased since the mid 70s. For some patients, early diagnosis and surgical removal of melanomas is lifesaving, while other patients typically turn to molecular targeted therapies and immunotherapies as treatment options. Easy sampling of melanomas allows the scientific community to identify the most prevalent mutations that initiate melanoma such as the BRAF, NRAS, and TERT genes, some of which can be therapeutically targeted. Though initially effective, many tumors acquire resistance to the targeted therapies demonstrating the need to investigate compensatory pathways. Immunotherapies represent an alternative to molecular targeted therapies. However, inter-tumoral immune cell populations dictate initial therapeutic response and even tumors that responded to treatment develop resistance in the long term. As the protocol for combination therapies develop, so will our scientific understanding of the many pathways at play in the progression of melanoma. The future direction of the field may be to find a molecule that connects all of the pathways. Meanwhile, noncoding RNAs have been shown to play important roles in melanoma development and progression. Studying noncoding RNAs may help us to understand how resistance - both primary and acquired - develops; ultimately allow us to harness the true potential of current therapies. This review will cover the basic structure of the skin, the mutations and pathways responsible for transforming melanocytes into melanomas, the process by which melanomas metastasize, targeted therapeutics, and the potential that noncoding RNAs have as a prognostic and treatment tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Wagstaff
- The Pritzker School of Medicine, and the Medical Scientist Training Program, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Rimel N. Mwamba
- The Pritzker School of Medicine, and the Medical Scientist Training Program, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Karina Grullon
- The Pritzker School of Medicine, and the Medical Scientist Training Program, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Mikhayla Armstrong
- The Pritzker School of Medicine, and the Medical Scientist Training Program, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Piao Zhao
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China
| | - Bryce Hendren-Santiago
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Kevin H. Qin
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Alexander J. Li
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Daniel A. Hu
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Andrew Youssef
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Russell R. Reid
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Laboratory of Craniofacial Suture Biology and Development, Department of Surgery Section of Plastic Surgery, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Hue H. Luu
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Le Shen
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Department of Surgery, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Tong-Chuan He
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Department of Surgery, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Rex C. Haydon
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
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12
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Ellingsen EB, Bounova G, Kerzeli I, Anzar I, Simnica D, Aamdal E, Guren T, Clancy T, Mezheyeuski A, Inderberg EM, Mangsbo SM, Binder M, Hovig E, Gaudernack G. Characterization of the T cell receptor repertoire and melanoma tumor microenvironment upon combined treatment with ipilimumab and hTERT vaccination. Lab Invest 2022; 20:419. [PMID: 36089578 PMCID: PMC9465869 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-022-03624-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Background This clinical trial evaluated a novel telomerase-targeting therapeutic cancer vaccine, UV1, in combination with ipilimumab, in patients with metastatic melanoma. Translational research was conducted on patient-derived blood and tissue samples with the goal of elucidating the effects of treatment on the T cell receptor repertoire and tumor microenvironment. Methods The trial was an open-label, single-center phase I/IIa study. Eligible patients had unresectable metastatic melanoma. Patients received up to 9 UV1 vaccinations and four ipilimumab infusions. Clinical responses were assessed according to RECIST 1.1. Patients were followed up for progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Whole-exome and RNA sequencing, and multiplex immunofluorescence were performed on the biopsies. T cell receptor (TCR) sequencing was performed on the peripheral blood and tumor tissues. Results Twelve patients were enrolled in the study. Vaccine-specific immune responses were detected in 91% of evaluable patients. Clinical responses were observed in four patients. The mPFS was 6.7 months, and the mOS was 66.3 months. There was no association between baseline tumor mutational burden, neoantigen load, IFN-γ gene signature, tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, and response to therapy. Tumor telomerase expression was confirmed in all available biopsies. Vaccine-enriched TCR clones were detected in blood and biopsy, and an increase in the tumor IFN-γ gene signature was detected in clinically responding patients. Conclusion Clinical responses were observed irrespective of established predictive biomarkers for checkpoint inhibitor efficacy, indicating an added benefit of the vaccine-induced T cells. The clinical and immunological read-out warrants further investigation of UV1 in combination with checkpoint inhibitors. Trial registration Clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT02275416. Registered October 27, 2014. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02275416?term=uv1&draw=2&rank=6 Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12967-022-03624-z.
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13
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Rashid S, Gupta S, McCormick SR, Tsao H. New Insights into Melanoma Tumor Syndromes. JID INNOVATIONS 2022; 2:100152. [DOI: 10.1016/j.xjidi.2022.100152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022] Open
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14
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Ding L, Gosh A, Lee DJ, Emri G, Huss WJ, Bogner PN, Paragh G. Prognostic biomarkers of cutaneous melanoma. PHOTODERMATOLOGY, PHOTOIMMUNOLOGY & PHOTOMEDICINE 2022; 38:418-434. [PMID: 34981569 DOI: 10.1111/phpp.12770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE Melanomas account for only approximately 4% of diagnosed skin cancers in the United States but are responsible for the majority of deaths caused by skin cancer. Both genetic factors and ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure play a role in the development of melanoma. Although melanomas have a strong propensity to metastasize when diagnosed late, melanomas that are diagnosed and treated early pose a low mortality risk. In particular, the identification of patients with increased metastatic risk, who may benefit from early adjuvant therapies, is crucial, especially given the advent of new melanoma treatments. However, the accuracy of classic clinical and histological variables, including the Breslow thickness, presence of ulceration, and lymph node status, might not be sufficient to identify such individuals. Thus, there is a need for the development of additional prognostic melanoma biomarkers that can improve early attempts to stratify melanoma patients and reliably identify high-risk subgroups with the aim of providing effective personalized therapies. METHODS In our current work, we discuss and assess emerging primary melanoma tumor biomarkers and prognostic circulating biomarkers. RESULTS Several promising biomarkers show prognostic value (eg, exosomal MIA (ie, melanoma inhibitory activity), serum S100B, AMLo signatures, and mRNA signatures); however, the scarcity of reliable data precludes the use of these biomarkers in current clinical applications. CONCLUSION Further research is needed on several promising biomarkers for melanoma. Large-scale studies are warranted to facilitate the clinical translation of prognostic biomarker applications for melanoma in personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Ding
- Department of Dermatology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, USA
- Department of Pathology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, USA
- Department of Pathology, Buffalo General Medical Center, State University of New York, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Alexandra Gosh
- Department of Dermatology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, USA
- Department of Cell Stress Biology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Delphine J Lee
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California, USA
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, The Lundquist Institute, Torrance, California, USA
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Gabriella Emri
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Wendy J Huss
- Department of Dermatology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, USA
- Department of Cell Stress Biology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Paul N Bogner
- Department of Dermatology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, USA
- Department of Pathology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Gyorgy Paragh
- Department of Dermatology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, USA
- Department of Cell Stress Biology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, USA
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15
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Zaremba A, Meier F, Schlein C, Jansen P, Lodde G, Song M, Kretz J, Möller I, Stadtler N, Livingstone E, Zimmer L, Hadaschik E, Sucker A, Schadendorf D, Griewank K. Clinical and pathological characteristics of familial melanoma with germline TERT promoter variants. Pigment Cell Melanoma Res 2022; 35:573-586. [PMID: 35912549 DOI: 10.1111/pcmr.13060] [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: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Around 10% of melanoma occur in patients with a suspected familial predisposition. TERT promoter mutations are the most common somatic hotspot mutations in human cancers. However, only two families with germline mutations have been identified to date. We present detailed histological, clinical and molecular pathologic analyses of affected patients and details of newly identified individuals in one of these previously reported families. TERT (NM_198253.3) Chr.5:1,295,161T>C (c.-57 T>C) promoter variants were detected in all melanoma-affected (n=18) and one non-diseased family member. Median age at diagnosis was 30 years (n=18, range 16-46 years, 2 unknown). While most primary melanoma arose on the upper extremities (n=7, 21%) and were superficial spreading melanoma (SSM, n=8, 24%), many primary melanoma also originated from non UV-exposed mucosal (n=2, 6%) and acral (n=4, 12%) locations. One SSM sample harboured a Chr.5:1,295,228C>T TERT promoter region in addition to the germline Chr.5:1,295,161T>C variant, arguing additional pathway activation can support tumor pathogenesis. Patients treated with BRAF inhibitor and/or immune checkpoint inhibition (ICI) showed responses, although of limited duration. One mucosal melanoma harboured both a KIT copy number gain and an activating c.1727 p.Leu576Pro mutation. Following modest response to ICI, subsequent KIT inhibitor (imatinib) therapy demonstrated an ongoing complete pathological response (currently 7 months).
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Zaremba
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45122 Essen, Germany, and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Friedegund Meier
- Skin Cancer Center at the University Cancer Centre and National Center for Tumor Diseases, Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technical University Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Christian Schlein
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Philipp Jansen
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45122 Essen, Germany, and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany.,Clinic and Polyclinic for Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Georg Lodde
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45122 Essen, Germany, and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Mingxia Song
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45122 Essen, Germany, and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Julia Kretz
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45122 Essen, Germany, and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Inga Möller
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45122 Essen, Germany, and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Nadine Stadtler
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45122 Essen, Germany, and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Livingstone
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45122 Essen, Germany, and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Lisa Zimmer
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45122 Essen, Germany, and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Eva Hadaschik
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45122 Essen, Germany, and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Antje Sucker
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45122 Essen, Germany, and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Dirk Schadendorf
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45122 Essen, Germany, and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Klaus Griewank
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45122 Essen, Germany, and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
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16
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TERT Promoter Mutations and Telomerase in Melanoma. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2022; 2022:6300329. [PMID: 35903534 PMCID: PMC9325578 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6300329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Malignant melanoma is an extremely malignant tumor with a high mortality rate and an increasing incidence with a high mutation load. The frequency of mutations in the TERT promoter exceeds the frequency of any known noncoding mutations in melanoma. A growing number of recent studies suggest that the most common mutations in the TERT promoter (ATG start site −124C>T and −146C>T) are associated with increased TERT mRNA expression, telomerase activity, telomere length, and poor prognosis. Recently, it has been shown that TERT promoter mutations are more correlated with the occurrence, development, invasion, and metastasis of melanoma, as well as emerging approaches such as the therapeutic potential of chemical inhibition of TERT promoter mutations, direct telomerase inhibitors, combined targeted therapy, and immunotherapies. In this review, we describe the latest advances in the role of TERT promoter mutations and telomerase in promoting the occurrence, development, and poor prognosis of melanoma and discuss the clinical significance of the TERT promoter and telomerase in the treatment of melanoma.
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17
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Tarazón E, de Unamuno Bustos B, Murria Estal R, Pérez Simó G, Sahuquillo Torralba A, Simarro J, Palanca Suela S, Botella Estrada R. MiR-138-5p Suppresses Cell Growth and Migration in Melanoma by Targeting Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12121931. [PMID: 34946880 PMCID: PMC8701232 DOI: 10.3390/genes12121931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent evidence suggests the existence of a miRNA regulatory network involving human telomerase reverse transcriptase gene (hTERT), with miR-138-5p playing a central role in many types of cancers. However, little is known about the regulation of hTERT expression by microRNA (miRNAs) in melanocytic tumors. Here, we investigated the effects of miR-138-5p in hTERT regulation in melanoma cells lines. In vitro studies demonstrated higher miR-138-5p and lower hTERT messenger RNA (mRNA) expression in human epidermal melanocytes, compared with melanoma cell lines (A2058, A375, SK-MEL-28) by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) observing a negative correlation between them. A2058 melanoma cells were selected to be transfected with miR-138-5p mimic or inhibitor. Using luciferase assay, hTERT was identified as a direct target of this miRNA. Overexpression of miR-138-5p detected by Western blot revealed a decrease in hTERT protein expression (p = 0.012), and qPCR showed a reduction in telomerase activity (p < 0.001). Moreover, suppressions in cell growth (p = 0.035) and migration abilities (p = 0.015) were observed in A2058-transfected cells using thiazolyl blue tetrazolium bromide and flow cytometry, respectively. This study identifies miR-138-5p as a crucial tumor suppressor miRNA involved in telomerase regulation. Targeting it as a combination therapy with immunotherapy or targeted therapies could be used in advanced melanoma treatment; however, more preclinical studies are necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estefanía Tarazón
- Dermatology and Tisular Regeneration Group, Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (E.T.); (B.d.U.B.); (R.M.E.); (A.S.T.); (R.B.E.)
| | - Blanca de Unamuno Bustos
- Dermatology and Tisular Regeneration Group, Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (E.T.); (B.d.U.B.); (R.M.E.); (A.S.T.); (R.B.E.)
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
| | - Rosa Murria Estal
- Dermatology and Tisular Regeneration Group, Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (E.T.); (B.d.U.B.); (R.M.E.); (A.S.T.); (R.B.E.)
| | - Gema Pérez Simó
- Clinical and Translational Cancer Research Group, Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (G.P.S.); (J.S.)
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Service of Clinical Analysis, University Hospital La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
| | - Antonio Sahuquillo Torralba
- Dermatology and Tisular Regeneration Group, Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (E.T.); (B.d.U.B.); (R.M.E.); (A.S.T.); (R.B.E.)
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
| | - Javier Simarro
- Clinical and Translational Cancer Research Group, Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (G.P.S.); (J.S.)
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Service of Clinical Analysis, University Hospital La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
| | - Sarai Palanca Suela
- Clinical and Translational Cancer Research Group, Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (G.P.S.); (J.S.)
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Service of Clinical Analysis, University Hospital La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-9612-44586
| | - Rafael Botella Estrada
- Dermatology and Tisular Regeneration Group, Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (E.T.); (B.d.U.B.); (R.M.E.); (A.S.T.); (R.B.E.)
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Universitat de València, 46010 Valencia, Spain
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18
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Cho WC, Wang WL, Milton DR, Ingram DR, Nagarajan P, Curry JL, Ivan D, Lazar AJ, Hwu WJ, Prieto VG, Torres-Cabala CA, Aung PP. Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase Protein Expression Is More Frequent in Acral Lentiginous Melanoma Than in Other Types of Cutaneous Melanoma. Arch Pathol Lab Med 2021; 145:842-850. [PMID: 33053175 DOI: 10.5858/arpa.2020-0330-oa] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT.— Molecularly distinct from cutaneous melanomas arising from sun-exposed sites, acral lentiginous melanomas (ALMs) typically lack ultraviolet-signature mutations, such as telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) promoter mutations. Instead, ALMs show a high degree of copy number alterations, often with multiple amplifications of TERT, which are associated with adverse prognosis. The prognostic value of TERT protein expression in acral melanomas, however, is not established. OBJECTIVE.— To evaluate the frequency and pattern of TERT immunoreactivity and assess the potential utility of TERT expression as a prognostic indicator in ALMs. DESIGN.— TERT expression by immunohistochemistry was analyzed in a series of 57 acral and nonacral melanocytic lesions, including 24 primary and 6 metastatic ALMs. Clinical outcome in patients with ALMs by TERT expression was assessed. RESULTS.— TERT expression was more frequent in ALMs than in nonlentiginous acral melanomas and nonacral cutaneous melanomas, and was absent in acral nevi (P = .01). When present, TERT expression in ALMs was cytoplasmic and more intense than TERT expression in other melanocytic lesions (P = .05) with a higher H-score (P = .01). There was a trend toward decreased overall survival in patients with ALMs with TERT immunoreactivity, but it did not reach statistical significance. Furthermore, no correlation was found between TERT expression and disease-specific survival in patients with ALMs. CONCLUSIONS.— Although TERT protein expression was frequently detected in both primary and metastatic ALMs, TERT immunoreactivity in ALMs did not correlate with survival in our study. Further studies with larger cohorts are needed to elucidate the prognostic value of TERT expression in ALMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Woo Cheal Cho
- From the Departments of Pathology (Cho, Wang, Nagarajan, Curry, Ivan, Lazar, Prieto, Torres-Cabala, Aung), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston
| | - Wei-Lien Wang
- From the Departments of Pathology (Cho, Wang, Nagarajan, Curry, Ivan, Lazar, Prieto, Torres-Cabala, Aung), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston.,Translational Molecular Pathology (Wang, Ingram, Lazar), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston
| | - Denái R Milton
- Biostatistics (Milton), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston
| | - Davis R Ingram
- Translational Molecular Pathology (Wang, Ingram, Lazar), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston
| | - Priyadharsini Nagarajan
- From the Departments of Pathology (Cho, Wang, Nagarajan, Curry, Ivan, Lazar, Prieto, Torres-Cabala, Aung), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston
| | - Jonathan L Curry
- From the Departments of Pathology (Cho, Wang, Nagarajan, Curry, Ivan, Lazar, Prieto, Torres-Cabala, Aung), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston
| | - Doina Ivan
- From the Departments of Pathology (Cho, Wang, Nagarajan, Curry, Ivan, Lazar, Prieto, Torres-Cabala, Aung), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston
| | - Alexander J Lazar
- From the Departments of Pathology (Cho, Wang, Nagarajan, Curry, Ivan, Lazar, Prieto, Torres-Cabala, Aung), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston.,Translational Molecular Pathology (Wang, Ingram, Lazar), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston.,Melanoma Medical Oncology (Lazar), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston. Torres-Cabala and Aung contributed equally to this work
| | - Wen-Jen Hwu
- Genomic Medicine (Hwu), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston
| | - Victor G Prieto
- From the Departments of Pathology (Cho, Wang, Nagarajan, Curry, Ivan, Lazar, Prieto, Torres-Cabala, Aung), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston.,Dermatology (Curry, Ivan, Prieto, Torres-Cabala), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston
| | - Carlos A Torres-Cabala
- From the Departments of Pathology (Cho, Wang, Nagarajan, Curry, Ivan, Lazar, Prieto, Torres-Cabala, Aung), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston.,Dermatology (Curry, Ivan, Prieto, Torres-Cabala), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston
| | - Phyu P Aung
- From the Departments of Pathology (Cho, Wang, Nagarajan, Curry, Ivan, Lazar, Prieto, Torres-Cabala, Aung), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston
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19
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Martins F, Martins C, Fernandes MS, Andrade MI, Lopes JM, Soares P, Pópulo H. TERT Promoter Mutational Status in the Management of Cutaneous Melanoma: Comparison with Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy. Dermatology 2021; 238:507-516. [PMID: 34569488 DOI: 10.1159/000518219] [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: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While BRAF mutations seem important for early melanomagenesis, mutations in the TERT promoter (TERTp) are related to metastasis. Yet, in conventional melanoma management, risk stratification does not depend on molecular biomarkers that can indicate the stage of progression, but rather on clinical, pathological, sentinel lymph node (SLN), and radiologic evaluation. The aim of this work was to evaluate the frequency and prognostic impact of TERTp mutations, comparing their predictive value to those of conventional procedures in melanoma management. METHODS Mutational analysis of a series of 91 cases was performed. The correlations between TERTp and BRAF mutational status and clinicopathological features were assessed. RESULTS The mutation rate was 33% for TERTp and 30% for BRAF. There was 68% concordance between primary and metastatic samples for TERTp mutations and 92% for BRAF mutations. TERTp mutations are significantly associated with the presence of BRAF mutations, features of worse prognosis, and a reduced disease-free survival. Also, TERTp mutational status was similar to SLN biopsy as a predictive factor of cutaneous melanoma recurrence and metastasis. CONCLUSIONS The predictive value of TERTp mutations may be similar to that of SLN biopsy and its integration in the management algorithm of melanoma patients should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Martins
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology, University of Porto (IPATIMUP), Porto, Portugal
- Institute for Research and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Medical Faculty, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - César Martins
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital de Santarém, EPE, Santarém, Portugal
| | | | | | - José Manuel Lopes
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology, University of Porto (IPATIMUP), Porto, Portugal
- Institute for Research and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology, Hospital São João, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology, Medical Faculty, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Paula Soares
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology, University of Porto (IPATIMUP), Porto, Portugal
- Institute for Research and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology, Medical Faculty, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Helena Pópulo
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology, University of Porto (IPATIMUP), Porto, Portugal
- Institute for Research and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology, Medical Faculty, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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20
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Chatterjee S, Chakraborty R, Hasija Y. Polymorphisms at site 469 of B-RAF protein associated with skin melanoma may be correlated with dabrafenib resistance: An in silico study. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2021; 40:10862-10877. [PMID: 34278963 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2021.1950571] [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: 02/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer. Numerous genes and their proteins are strongly associated with melanoma susceptibility. This study aims to use an in silico method to identify genetic variants in the melanoma susceptibility gene. The COSMIC database was queried for genes and cross-referenced with three environment-gene interaction databases (EGP, SeattleSNPs and CTD) to identify shared genes. The majority of approved skin melanoma drugs were found to act on the protein serine/threonine-protein kinase (B-RAF) encoded by the BRAF gene, which was also present in all three referenced databases. Comprehensive computational analysis was performed to predict deleterious genetic variants associated with skin melanoma, and the nsSNPs G469V and G469E were prioritized based on their predicted deleterious effects. Molecular dynamic simulation analysis of the B-RAF protein mutants G469V and G469E reveals that variations in the amino acid conformation at the drug binding site result in inconsistency in drug interaction. Additionally, this analysis showed that the G469V and G469E mutants have lower binding energy for dabrafenib than the wild type. The population with the highest frequency of each deleterious and pathogenic variant has been determined. The study's findings would support the development of more effective treatment strategies for skin melanoma. Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yasha Hasija
- Department of Biotechnology, Delhi Technological University, Delhi, India
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21
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Ellingsen EB, Mangsbo SM, Hovig E, Gaudernack G. Telomerase as a Target for Therapeutic Cancer Vaccines and Considerations for Optimizing Their Clinical Potential. Front Immunol 2021; 12:682492. [PMID: 34290704 PMCID: PMC8288190 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.682492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Telomerase-based therapeutic cancer vaccines (TCVs) have been under clinical investigation for the past two decades. Despite past failures, TCVs have gained renewed enthusiasm for their potential to improve the efficacy of checkpoint inhibition. Telomerase stands as an attractive target for TCVs due to its almost universal presence in cancer and its essential function promoting tumor growth. Herein, we review tumor telomerase biology that may affect the efficacy of therapeutic vaccination and provide insights on optimal vaccine design and treatment combinations. Tumor types possessing mechanisms of increased telomerase expression combined with an immune permissive tumor microenvironment are expected to increase the therapeutic potential of telomerase-targeting cancer vaccines. Regardless, rational treatment combinations, such as checkpoint inhibitors, are likely necessary to bring out the true clinical potential of TCVs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Espen Basmo Ellingsen
- Department of Tumor Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Research and Development, Ultimovacs ASA, Oslo, Norway
| | - Sara M Mangsbo
- Research and Development, Ultimovacs AB, Uppsala, Sweden.,Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Eivind Hovig
- Department of Tumor Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Centre for Bioinformatics, Department of Informatics, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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22
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Brouwer NJ, Verdijk RM, Heegaard S, Marinkovic M, Esmaeli B, Jager MJ. Conjunctival melanoma: New insights in tumour genetics and immunology, leading to new therapeutic options. Prog Retin Eye Res 2021; 86:100971. [PMID: 34015548 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2021.100971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Recent developments in oncology have led to a better molecular and cellular understanding of cancer, and the introduction of novel therapies. Conjunctival melanoma (CoM) is a rare but potentially devastating disease. A better understanding of CoM, leading to the development of novel therapies, is urgently needed. CoM is characterized by mutations that have also been identified in cutaneous melanoma, e.g. in BRAF, NRAS and TERT. These mutations are distinct from the mutations found in uveal melanoma (UM), affecting genes such as GNAQ, GNA11, and BAP1. Targeted therapies that are successful in cutaneous melanoma may therefore be useful in CoM. A recent breakthrough in the treatment of patients with metastatic cutaneous melanoma was the development of immunotherapy. While immunotherapy is currently sparsely effective in intraocular tumours such as UM, the similarities between CoM and cutaneous melanoma (including in their immunological tumour micro environment) provide hope for the application of immunotherapy in CoM, and preliminary clinical data are indeed emerging to support this use. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge regarding CoM, with a focus on the genetic and immunologic understanding. We elaborate on the distinct position of CoM in contrast to other types of melanoma, and explain how new insights in the pathophysiology of this disease guide the development of new, personalized, treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niels J Brouwer
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.
| | - Robert M Verdijk
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands; Department of Pathology, Leiden University Medica Center, Leiden, the Netherlands; Department of Pathology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Steffen Heegaard
- Department of Ophthalmology, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Pathology, Eye Pathology Section, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Marina Marinkovic
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.
| | - Bita Esmaeli
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Orbital Oncology and Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Martine J Jager
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.
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23
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Gandini S, Zanna I, De Angelis S, Palli D, Raimondi S, Ribero S, Masala G, Suppa M, Bellerba F, Corso F, Nezi L, Nagore E, Caini S. TERT promoter mutations and melanoma survival: A comprehensive literature review and meta-analysis. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2021; 160:103288. [DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2021.103288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Revised: 01/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
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24
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Murria Estal R, de Unamuno Bustos B, Pérez Simó G, Simarro Farinos J, Torres Navarro I, Alegre de Miquel V, Ballester Sánchez R, Sabater Marco V, Llavador Ros M, Palanca Suela S, Botella Estrada R. MicroRNAs expression associated with aggressive clinicopathological features and poor prognosis in primary cutaneous melanomas. Melanoma Res 2021; 31:18-26. [PMID: 33234848 DOI: 10.1097/cmr.0000000000000709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Several studies have focused on identifying microRNAs involved in the pathogenesis of melanoma. However, its association with clinicopathological features has been scarcely addressed. The aim of this study is to identify microRNAs expression profiles related to aggressive clinicopathological and molecular features, and to analyze the association with melanoma survival. A retrospective and observational study was performed in a series of 179 formalin-fixed paraffin embedded primary cutaneous melanomas. First, a screening analysis on a discovery set (n = 22) using miRNA gene chip array (Affymetrix, Santa Clara, California, USA) was performed. Differentially expressed microRNAs were detected employing the software Partek Genomic Suite. Validation of four microRNAs was subsequently performed in the entire series (n = 179) by quantitative real time PCR (qRT-PCR). MicroRNAs expression screening analysis identified 101 microRNAs differentially expressed according to Breslow thickness (≤1 mm vs. >1 mm), 79 according to the presence or absence of ulceration, 78 according to mitosis/mm2 (<1 mitosis vs. ≥1 mitosis) and 97 according to the TERT promoter status (wt vs. mutated). Six microRNAs (miR-138-5p, miR-130b-3p, miR-30b-5p, miR-34a-5p, miR-500a-5p, miR-339-5p) were selected for being validated by qRT-PCR in the discovery set (n = 22). Of those, miR-138-5p, miR-130b-3p, miR-30b-5p, miR-34a-5p were selected for further analysis in the entire series (n = 179). Overexpression of miR-138-5p and miR-130b-3p was significantly associated with greater Breslow thickness, ulceration, and mitosis. TERT mutated melanomas overexpressed miR-138-5p. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed poorer survival in melanomas with miR-130b-3p overexpression. Our findings provide support for the existence of a microRNA expression profile in melanomas with aggressive clinicopathological features and poor prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Murria Estal
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Service of Clinical Analysis, Hospital Universitari i Politecnic La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Blanca de Unamuno Bustos
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Service of Clinical Analysis, Hospital Universitari i Politecnic La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Gema Pérez Simó
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Service of Clinical Analysis, Hospital Universitari i Politecnic La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Javier Simarro Farinos
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Service of Clinical Analysis, Hospital Universitari i Politecnic La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Vicente Sabater Marco
- Department of Pathology, Hospital General Universitario de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | | | - Sarai Palanca Suela
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Service of Clinical Analysis, Hospital Universitari i Politecnic La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Rafael Botella Estrada
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital Universitari i Politecnic La Fe, Valencia, Spain
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain
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25
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van Ipenburg JA, Naus NC, Dubbink HJ, van Ginderdeuren R, Missotten GS, Paridaens D, Verdijk RM. Prognostic value of TERT promoter mutations in conjunctival melanomas in addition to clinicopathological features. Br J Ophthalmol 2020; 105:1454-1461. [PMID: 33127831 DOI: 10.1136/bjophthalmol-2020-317405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To evaluate the prognostic value of clinical, histopathological and molecular features and to relate different treatment modalities to clinical outcome in conjunctival melanomas (CM). METHODS Retrospective review of clinical, histopathological and BRAF V600E and telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) promoter mutation status and treatment modalities, correlated to recurrence and metastasis in 79 patients with CM, diagnosed between 1987 and 2015 in three tertiary referral centres in the Netherlands and Belgium. RESULTS Out of 78 evaluable patients, recurrences occurred in 16 patients and metastasis in 12 patients (median follow-up time 35 months (0-260 months)). Tumour thickness >2 mm, pT status, the presence of epithelioid cells, ulceration and mitoses was significantly correlated with metastasis (p value 0.046, 0.01, 0.02, 0.001 and 0.003, respectively). Furthermore, CM frequently harbour BRAF V600E and TERT promoter mutations (29% and 43%, respectively). TERT promoter mutations were correlated to shorter metastasis-free survival (p value 0.002). No significant correlation was found for clinical parameters and metastatic disease. Palpebral, forniceal and caruncular melanomas were more prone to develop recurrences (p value: 0.03). Most CM were treated with excision with adjuvant therapy. CONCLUSION In line with the recommendations in the Eighth Edition of the American Joint Committee on Cancer Staging for CM, the pathology report should include information about pT status, tumour thickness, presence of epithelioid cells, ulceration and mitoses. Furthermore, information about the presence of a TERT promoter mutation and BRAF V600E mutation is of interest for therapeutic decision making. The presence of a TERT promoter mutation is correlated to metastatic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - N C Naus
- Ophthalmology, Erasmus MC, Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - H J Dubbink
- Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland,Netherlands
| | - R van Ginderdeuren
- Department of Ophthalmology and Pathology, University Hospital Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - G S Missotten
- Ophthalmology, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven Gasthuisberg Campus Hospital Pharmacy, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| | - D Paridaens
- Rotterdam Eye Hospital, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - R M Verdijk
- Pathology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands /
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26
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Gkiala A, Palioura S. Conjunctival Melanoma: Update on Genetics, Epigenetics and Targeted Molecular and Immune-Based Therapies. Clin Ophthalmol 2020; 14:3137-3152. [PMID: 33116365 PMCID: PMC7553763 DOI: 10.2147/opth.s271569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To present the molecular mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of conjunctival melanoma (CM) and review the existing literature on targeted molecular inhibitors as well as immune checkpoint inhibitors for the management of locally advanced and metastatic disease. Methods A comprehensive review of the literature was performed using the keywords "conjunctival melanoma", "immune checkpoint inhibitors", "BRAF inhibitors", "MEK inhibitors", "CTLA4 inhibitors", "PD1 inhibitors", "c-KIT mutations", "BRAF mutations", "NRAS mutations", "dabrafenib", "trametinib", "vemurafenib", "ipilimumab", "pembrolizumab", and "nivolumab". A total of 250 articles were reviewed and 120 were included in this report. Results Mutations of mediators in the MAP kinase pathway, such as RAS, BRAF, MEK and ERK, and mutations of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway play a major role in the pathogenesis of conjunctival melanoma. In addition, alterations of c-KIT, NF1, TERT, chemokine receptors as well as chromosomal copy number alterations and micro RNAs are thought to have a causative association with CM development. Targeted molecular inhibitors, such as BRAF and MEK inhibitors, are currently being implemented in the therapy of BRAF-mutated CM. Furthermore, immune checkpoint PD-1 and CTLA4 inhibitors with favorable clinical outcomes in the treatment of cutaneous melanoma have increased recurrence-free survival and reduced metastatic spread in CM cases. Conclusion The complex molecular mechanisms that contribute to the development of CM can be targeted both by molecular inhibitors of oncogenic pathways as well as immune checkpoint inhibitors in order to halt progression of the disease and increase survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Gkiala
- National and Kapodistrian University of Athens School of Medicine, Athens, Greece
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27
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Ramani NS, Aung PP, Gu J, Sfamenos S, Sdringola-Maranga C, Nagarajan P, Tetzlaff MT, Curry JL, Ivan D, Diab A, Prieto VG, Hwu WJ, Torres-Cabala CA. TERT amplification but not activation of canonical Wnt/β-catenin pathway is involved in acral lentiginous melanoma progression to metastasis. Mod Pathol 2020; 33:2067-2074. [PMID: 32404956 DOI: 10.1038/s41379-020-0565-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2020] [Revised: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Acral lentiginous melanoma (ALM) is a rare tumor that occurs on non-sun exposed skin areas of the hands and feet. Reports suggest that ALM exhibits poor prognosis, although mechanisms driving this remain poorly understood. Alterations in TERT and the Wnt/β-catenin (Wnt) pathway have been suggested to correlate with prognosis of ALM. Thus, immunohistochemical expression of β-catenin and LEF1 along with TERT amplification by FISH was investigated in 34 primary ALMs, 20 metastatic ALMs, 10 primary non-ALMs, and 15 acral nevi. Foot/toe was the most common primary tumor location (85%) for ALM. TERT amplification was detected in 6 of 28 (21.4%) primary ALM, 2 of 8 (25%) primary non-ALM, and 8 of 18 (44.4%) metastatic ALM, the latter showing significantly higher frequency compared with primary melanomas (P = 0.043). Most metastatic ALMs positive for TERT amplification lacked BRAF V600E (87.5%). Cytoplasmic and nonnuclear expression of β-catenin was variably detected in all cases. Metastatic ALM revealed lower expression of β-catenin compared with primary ALM (P = 0.017). No differences in LEF1 expression were detected among the groups; however, acral nevi showed decreased labeling with dermal descent, in contrast to melanoma. No molecular-genetic alteration correlated with prognosis. TERT amplification by FISH is a frequent finding in primary ALM and appears to increase in metastatic tumors, suggesting a role in tumor progression to metastasis. Although TERT amplification has been reported to be infrequent in primary non-ALM, it showed comparable frequency with ALM in our series. Our immunohistochemical findings are not fully supportive of activation of either canonical or noncanonical Wnt cascades in ALM. TERT amplification by FISH and LEF1 immunohistochemistry may help in the differential diagnosis between primary ALM and acral nevus. TERT amplification appears to be a promising target for therapy in patients with metastatic ALM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisha S Ramani
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Phyu P Aung
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jun Gu
- Cytogenetics Training Laboratory, School of Health Professions, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Steven Sfamenos
- Cytogenetics Training Laboratory, School of Health Professions, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Chiara Sdringola-Maranga
- Cytogenetics Training Laboratory, School of Health Professions, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Priyardhisini Nagarajan
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Michael T Tetzlaff
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Molecular Translational Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jonathan L Curry
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Dermatology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Doina Ivan
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Adi Diab
- Department of Melanoma Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Victor G Prieto
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Dermatology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Wen-Jen Hwu
- Department of Melanoma Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Carlos A Torres-Cabala
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
- Department of Dermatology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
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28
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Bradfield A, Button L, Drury J, Green DC, Hill CJ, Hapangama DK. Investigating the Role of Telomere and Telomerase Associated Genes and Proteins in Endometrial Cancer. Methods Protoc 2020; 3:E63. [PMID: 32899298 PMCID: PMC7565490 DOI: 10.3390/mps3030063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometrial cancer (EC) is the commonest gynaecological malignancy. Current prognostic markers are inadequate to accurately predict patient survival, necessitating novel prognostic markers, to improve treatment strategies. Telomerase has a unique role within the endometrium, whilst aberrant telomerase activity is a hallmark of many cancers. The aim of the current in silico study is to investigate the role of telomere and telomerase associated genes and proteins (TTAGPs) in EC to identify potential prognostic markers and therapeutic targets. Analysis of RNA-seq data from The Cancer Genome Atlas identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in EC (568 TTAGPs out of 3467) and ascertained DEGs associated with histological subtypes, higher grade endometrioid tumours and late stage EC. Functional analysis demonstrated that DEGs were predominantly involved in cell cycle regulation, while the survival analysis identified 69 DEGs associated with prognosis. The protein-protein interaction network constructed facilitated the identification of hub genes, enriched transcription factor binding sites and drugs that may target the network. Thus, our in silico methods distinguished many critical genes associated with telomere maintenance that were previously unknown to contribute to EC carcinogenesis and prognosis, including NOP56, WFS1, ANAPC4 and TUBB4A. Probing the prognostic and therapeutic utility of these novel TTAGP markers will form an exciting basis for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Bradfield
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, University of Liverpool, Crown St, Liverpool L69 7ZX, UK; (A.B.); (J.D.); (C.J.H.)
| | - Lucy Button
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Brownlow Hill, Liverpool L69 7ZX, UK;
| | - Josephine Drury
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, University of Liverpool, Crown St, Liverpool L69 7ZX, UK; (A.B.); (J.D.); (C.J.H.)
| | - Daniel C. Green
- Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L7 8TX, UK;
| | - Christopher J. Hill
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, University of Liverpool, Crown St, Liverpool L69 7ZX, UK; (A.B.); (J.D.); (C.J.H.)
| | - Dharani K. Hapangama
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, University of Liverpool, Crown St, Liverpool L69 7ZX, UK; (A.B.); (J.D.); (C.J.H.)
- Liverpool Women’s NHS Foundation Trust, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK
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Motaparthi K, Kim J, Andea AA, Missall TA, Novoa RA, Vidal CI, Fung MA, Emanuel PO. TERT and TERT promoter in melanocytic neoplasms: Current concepts in pathogenesis, diagnosis, and prognosis. J Cutan Pathol 2020; 47:710-719. [PMID: 32202662 DOI: 10.1111/cup.13691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Revised: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Located on chromosome locus 5p15.33, telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT or hTERT) encodes the catalytic subunit of telomerase which permits lengthening and preservation of telomeres following mitosis. Mutations in TERT promoter (TERT-p) upregulate expression of TERT, allowing survival of malignant cells and tumor progression in wide variety of malignancies including melanoma. The objective of this review is to examine the roles of TERT and TERT-p in the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and prognostication of cutaneous melanoma. METHODS All studies of TERT or TERT-p in cutaneous melanocytic neoplasms with the following inclusion criteria were reviewed: publication date between 2010 and 2019, English language, and series of ≥3 cases were reviewed for evidence supporting the role of TERT in pathogenesis, diagnosis, and prognosis. Studies with <3 cases or focused primarily on mucosal or uveal melanocytic tumors were excluded. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION TERT-p mutations are frequent in chronic and non-chronic sun damage melanoma and correlate with adverse prognosis, inform pathogenesis, and may provide diagnostic support. While TERT-p mutations are uncommon in acral melanoma, TERT copy number gains and gene amplification predict reduced survival. Among atypical spitzoid neoplasms, TERT-p mutations identify biologically aggressive tumors and support the diagnosis of spitzoid melanoma. TERT-p methylation may have prognostic value in pediatric conventional melanoma and drive tumorigenesis in melanoma arising within congenital nevi. Finally, TERT-p mutations may aid in the differentiation of recurrent nevi from recurrent melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiran Motaparthi
- Department of Dermatology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Jinah Kim
- Palo Alto Medical Foundation, Palo Alto, California
| | - Aleodor A Andea
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Tricia A Missall
- Department of Dermatology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Roberto A Novoa
- Department of Dermatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Claudia I Vidal
- Dermatology Center of Southern Indiana, Bloomington, Indiana
| | - Maxwell A Fung
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, Davis, California
| | - Patrick O Emanuel
- Laboratorio Recavarren Emanuel, Clínica Ricardo Palma, Lima, Peru
- IGENZ Molecular Laboratory, Auckland, New Zealand
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Vanni I, Tanda ET, Dalmasso B, Pastorino L, Andreotti V, Bruno W, Boutros A, Spagnolo F, Ghiorzo P. Non-BRAF Mutant Melanoma: Molecular Features and Therapeutical Implications. Front Mol Biosci 2020; 7:172. [PMID: 32850962 PMCID: PMC7396525 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2020.00172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is one of the most aggressive tumors of the skin, and its incidence is growing worldwide. Historically considered a drug resistant disease, since 2011 the therapeutic landscape of melanoma has radically changed. Indeed, the improved knowledge of the immune system and its interactions with the tumor, and the ever more thorough molecular characterization of the disease, has allowed the development of immunotherapy on the one hand, and molecular target therapies on the other. The increased availability of more performing technologies like Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), and the availability of increasingly large genetic panels, allows the identification of several potential therapeutic targets. In light of this, numerous clinical and preclinical trials are ongoing, to identify new molecular targets. Here, we review the landscape of mutated non-BRAF skin melanoma, in light of recent data deriving from Whole-Exome Sequencing (WES) or Whole-Genome Sequencing (WGS) studies on melanoma cohorts for which information on the mutation rate of each gene was available, for a total of 10 NGS studies and 992 samples, focusing on available, or in experimentation, targeted therapies beyond those targeting mutated BRAF. Namely, we describe 33 established and candidate driver genes altered with frequency greater than 1.5%, and the current status of targeted therapy for each gene. Only 1.1% of the samples showed no coding mutations, whereas 30% showed at least one mutation in the RAS genes (mostly NRAS) and 70% showed mutations outside of the RAS genes, suggesting potential new roads for targeted therapy. Ongoing clinical trials are available for 33.3% of the most frequently altered genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Vanni
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | | | - Bruna Dalmasso
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | - Lorenza Pastorino
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | - Virginia Andreotti
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | - William Bruno
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | - Andrea Boutros
- Medical Oncology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | | | - Paola Ghiorzo
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
- Genetics of Rare Cancers, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
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Toussi A, Mans N, Welborn J, Kiuru M. Germline mutations predisposing to melanoma. J Cutan Pathol 2020; 47:606-616. [PMID: 32249949 DOI: 10.1111/cup.13689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Nearly 15% of melanomas occur in patients with a family history and a subset of these patients have a germline mutation in a melanoma predisposing gene. CDKN2A mutations are responsible for the majority of hereditary melanoma, but many other susceptibility genes have been discovered in recent years, including CDK4, TERT, ACD, TERF2IP, POT1, MITF, MC1R, and BAP1. Additionally, melanoma risk is increased in mixed cancer syndromes caused by mutations in PTEN, BRCA2, BRCA1, RB1, and TP53. While early onset, multiple tumors, and family cancer history remain the most valuable clinical clues for hereditary melanoma, characteristic epithelioid cytology of melanocytic tumors may suggest an underlying BAP1 mutation. Herein, we review the clinical and histopathologic characteristics of melanocytic tumors associated with these germline mutations and discuss the role of genetic counseling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atrin Toussi
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Nicole Mans
- Hereditary Cancer Program, Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Jeanna Welborn
- Hereditary Cancer Program, Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Maija Kiuru
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, California, USA.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, California, USA
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Forthun RB, Hovland R, Schuster C, Puntervoll H, Brodal HP, Namløs HM, Aasheim LB, Meza-Zepeda LA, Gjertsen BT, Knappskog S, Straume O. ctDNA detected by ddPCR reveals changes in tumour load in metastatic malignant melanoma treated with bevacizumab. Sci Rep 2019; 9:17471. [PMID: 31767937 PMCID: PMC6877652 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-53917-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2018] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Bevacizumab is included in an increasing number of clinical trials. To find biomarkers to predict and monitor treatment response, cancer and angiogenesis relevant mutations in tumour and circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) were investigated in 26 metastatic melanoma patients treated with bevacizumab. Patients with >1% BRAF/NRAS ctDNA at treatment start had significantly decreased progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) (PFS: p = 0.019, median 54 vs 774 days, OS: p = 0.026, median 209 vs 1064 days). Patients with >1% BRAF/NRAS ctDNA during treatment showed similar results (PFS: p = 0.002, OS: p = 0.003). ≤1% BRAF/NRAS ctDNA and normal lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels both significantly predicted increased response to treatment, but BRAF/NRAS ctDNA was better at predicting response compared to LDH at treatment start (OR 16.94, p = 0.032 vs OR 4.57, p = 0.190), and at predicting PFS (HR 6.76, p = 0.002) and OS (HR 6.78, p = 0.002) during therapy. ctDNA BRAF p.V600D/E/K and NRAS p.G12V/p.Q61K/L/R were better biomarkers for response prediction than TERT promoter mutations (OR 1.50, p = 0.657). Next generation sequencing showed that all patients with ≥2 mutations in angiogenesis-relevant genes had progressive disease, but did not reveal other biomarkers identifying responders. To conclude, ctDNA and LDH are useful biomarkers for both monitoring and predicting response to bevacizumab.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rakel Brendsdal Forthun
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hematology Section, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Randi Hovland
- Department of Medical Genetics, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Biosciences, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Cornelia Schuster
- Centre of Cancer Biomarkers, CCBIO, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Oncology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Hanne Puntervoll
- Centre of Cancer Biomarkers, CCBIO, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Hans Petter Brodal
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hematology Section, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Heidi Maria Namløs
- Department of Tumour Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Lars Birger Aasheim
- Norwegian Cancer Genomics Consortium, Institute for Cancer Research, The Norwegian Radium Hospital/Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Leonardo A Meza-Zepeda
- Department of Tumour Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Norwegian Cancer Genomics Consortium, Institute for Cancer Research, The Norwegian Radium Hospital/Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Genomics Core Facility, Department of Core Facilities, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Bjørn Tore Gjertsen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hematology Section, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- Centre of Cancer Biomarkers, CCBIO, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Stian Knappskog
- Department of Oncology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- K.G. Jebsen Center for Genome Directed Cancer Therapy, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Oddbjørn Straume
- Centre of Cancer Biomarkers, CCBIO, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.
- Department of Oncology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway.
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Conjunctival Melanoma: Genetic and Epigenetic Insights of a Distinct Type of Melanoma. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20215447. [PMID: 31683701 PMCID: PMC6862213 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20215447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Revised: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Conjunctival melanoma (CjM) is a rare, primary cancer of the ocular region. Genetic and epigenetic characteristics of conjunctival melanoma have not been completely elucidated yet. Conjunctival melanoma presents similarities with cutaneous melanoma, with substantial differences in the biological behavior. We reviewed the genetic and epigenetic insights of CjM involved in invasion and metastatic spread. CjM is commonly characterized by mutations of v-raf murine sarcoma viral oncogene homolog B1 (BRAF), neurofibromin 1 (NF1) and telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT), high expression of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and heat shock protein 90 (HSP90), frequent phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) loss and upregulation of specific miRNAs. These features should identify CjM as a distinct subset of melanoma with its own profile, which is more similar to cutaneous melanoma than mucosal melanoma and remarkably different from uveal melanoma.
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Shaughnessy M, Njauw CN, Artomov M, Tsao H. Classifying Melanoma by TERT Promoter Mutational Status. J Invest Dermatol 2019; 140:390-394.e1. [PMID: 31425705 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2019.06.149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2019] [Revised: 05/30/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Although TERT promoter mutations have been associated with a worsened prognosis in melanoma, the relationship between mutation status and downstream telomerase activity and telomere length remains convoluted. Using Sanger sequencing and techniques based on quantitative reverse transcriptase in real time, we evaluated 60 melanoma cell lines for TERT promoter mutational status, copy number, gene expression, and telomere length to provide a comprehensive analysis of the TERT/telomere pathway and establish a classification system whereby the associations between TERT mutations and their downstream molecular manifestations can more easily be ascertained. Mutations at positions -124/125 and -146 were associated with the highest levels of TERT gene expression but had no appreciable impact on absolute telomere length. In contrast, the common variant rs2853669 (at position -245) was significantly associated with longer telomere length via a recessive model in our cohort (P = 0.003). Our results, which are from assays performed on purified melanoma cell lines, suggest that the TERT promoter harbors a more complex mutational landscape than previously thought. Furthermore, the failure of TERT promoter mutations to consistently correlate with TERT expression and telomere length suggests an alternative method whereby tumor cells escape the critical shortening of telomeres.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Shaughnessy
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ching-Ni Njauw
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Hensin Tsao
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
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35
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Wood MD, Halfpenny AM, Moore SR. Applications of molecular neuro-oncology - a review of diffuse glioma integrated diagnosis and emerging molecular entities. Diagn Pathol 2019; 14:29. [PMID: 30967140 PMCID: PMC6457044 DOI: 10.1186/s13000-019-0802-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 03/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Insights into the molecular underpinnings of primary central nervous system tumors have radically changed the approach to tumor diagnosis and classification. Diagnostic emphasis has shifted from the morphology of a tumor under the microscope to an integrated approach based on morphologic and molecular features, including gene mutations, chromosomal copy number alterations, and gene rearrangements. In 2016, the World Health Organization provided guidelines for making an integrated diagnosis that incorporates both morphologic and molecular features in a subset of brain tumors. The integrated diagnosis now applies to infiltrating gliomas, a category that includes diffusely infiltrating astrocytoma grades II, III, and IV, and oligodendroglioma, grades II and III, thereby encompassing the most common primary intra-axial central nervous system tumors. Other neoplasms such as medulloblastoma, embryonal tumor with multilayered rosettes, certain supratentorial ependymomas, and atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor are also eligible for integrated diagnosis, which can sometimes be aided by characteristic immunohistochemical markers. Since 2016, advances in molecular neuro-oncology have resulted in periodic updates and clarifications to the integrated diagnostic approach. These advances reflect expanding knowledge on the molecular pathology of brain tumors, but raise a challenge in rapidly incorporating new molecular findings into diagnostic practice. This review provides a background on the molecular characteristics of primary brain tumors, emphasizing the molecular basis for classification of infiltrating gliomas, the most common entities that are eligible for an integrated diagnosis. We then discuss entities within the diffuse gliomas that do not receive an integrated diagnosis by WHO 2016 criteria, but have distinctive molecular features that are important to recognize because their clinical behavior can influence clinical management and prognosis. Particular attention is given to the histone H3 G34R/G34V mutant astrocytomas, an entity to consider when faced with an infiltrating glioma in the cerebral hemisphere of children and young adults, and to the group of histologically lower grade diffuse astrocytic gliomas with molecular features of glioblastoma, an important category of tumors to recognize due to their aggressive clinical behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew D Wood
- OHSU Department of Pathology, Division of Anatomic Pathology, Section of Neuropathology, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, L-113, Portland, OR, 97213, USA.
| | - Aaron M Halfpenny
- OHSU Department of Pathology, Division of Anatomic Pathology, Section of Neuropathology, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, L-113, Portland, OR, 97213, USA
| | - Stephen R Moore
- Knight Diagnostic Laboratories and Department of Molecular and Medical Genetics, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
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36
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Bustos B DU, Torralba A S, Poveda P M, Simó G P, Farinos J S, Ros M L, Suela S P, Estrada R B. Telomerase Expression in a Series of Melanocytic Neoplasms. ACTAS DERMO-SIFILIOGRAFICAS 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.adengl.2019.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
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37
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Estudio de la expresión de telomerasa en una serie de neoplasias melanocíticas. ACTAS DERMO-SIFILIOGRAFICAS 2019; 110:212-219. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ad.2018.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2018] [Revised: 09/29/2018] [Accepted: 10/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
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Hugdahl E, Bachmann IM, Schuster C, Ladstein RG, Akslen LA. Prognostic value of uPAR expression and angiogenesis in primary and metastatic melanoma. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0210399. [PMID: 30640942 PMCID: PMC6331131 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0210399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2018] [Accepted: 12/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis is important for the progression of cutaneous melanoma. Here, we analyzed the prognostic impact of the angiogenic factor urokinase plasminogen activator resecptor (uPAR), vascular proliferation index (VPI) and tumor necrosis as a measure of hypoxia in a patient series of nodular melanomas (n = 255) and matched loco-regional metastases (n = 78). Expression of uPAR was determined by immunohistochemistry and VPI was assessed by dual immunohistochemistry using Factor-VIII/Ki67 staining. Necrosis was recorded based on HE-slides. As novel findings, high uPAR expression and high VPI were associated with each other, and with increased tumor thickness, presence of tumor necrosis, tumor ulceration, increased mitotic count and reduced cancer specific survival in primary melanoma. In matched cases, VPI was decreased in metastases, whereas the frequency of necrosis was increased. Our findings demonstrate for the first time the impact on melanoma specific survival of uPAR expression and VPI in primary tumors, and of increased necrosis as an indicator of tumor hypoxia in loco-regional metastases. These findings support the importance of tumor angiogenesis in melanoma aggressiveness, and suggest uPAR as an indicator of vascular proliferation and a potential biomarker in melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilia Hugdahl
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers CCBIO, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Dermatology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Ingeborg M. Bachmann
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers CCBIO, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Dermatology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Cornelia Schuster
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers CCBIO, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Oncology Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Rita G. Ladstein
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers CCBIO, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Dermatology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Lars A. Akslen
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers CCBIO, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Pathology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- * E-mail:
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Swetter SM, Tsao H, Bichakjian CK, Curiel-Lewandrowski C, Elder DE, Gershenwald JE, Guild V, Grant-Kels JM, Halpern AC, Johnson TM, Sober AJ, Thompson JA, Wisco OJ, Wyatt S, Hu S, Lamina T. Guidelines of care for the management of primary cutaneous melanoma. J Am Acad Dermatol 2018; 80:208-250. [PMID: 30392755 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2018.08.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 317] [Impact Index Per Article: 52.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Revised: 08/28/2018] [Accepted: 08/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The incidence of primary cutaneous melanoma continues to increase each year. Melanoma accounts for the majority of skin cancer-related deaths, but treatment is usually curative following early detection of disease. In this American Academy of Dermatology clinical practice guideline, updated treatment recommendations are provided for patients with primary cutaneous melanoma (American Joint Committee on Cancer stages 0-IIC and pathologic stage III by virtue of a positive sentinel lymph node biopsy). Biopsy techniques for a lesion that is clinically suggestive of melanoma are reviewed, as are recommendations for the histopathologic interpretation of cutaneous melanoma. The use of laboratory, molecular, and imaging tests is examined in the initial work-up of patients with newly diagnosed melanoma and for follow-up of asymptomatic patients. With regard to treatment of primary cutaneous melanoma, recommendations for surgical margins and the concepts of staged excision (including Mohs micrographic surgery) and nonsurgical treatments for melanoma in situ, lentigo maligna type (including topical imiquimod and radiation therapy), are updated. The role of sentinel lymph node biopsy as a staging technique for cutaneous melanoma is described, with recommendations for its use in clinical practice. Finally, current data regarding pregnancy and melanoma, genetic testing for familial melanoma, and management of dermatologic toxicities related to novel targeted agents and immunotherapies for patients with advanced disease are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan M Swetter
- Department of Dermatology, Stanford University Medical Center and Cancer Institute, Stanford, California; Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California.
| | - Hensin Tsao
- Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Christopher K Bichakjian
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan; Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Clara Curiel-Lewandrowski
- Division of Dermatology, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona; University of Arizona Cancer Center, Tucson, Arizona
| | - David E Elder
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Department of Pathology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Jeffrey E Gershenwald
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas; Department of Cancer Biology, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | | | - Jane M Grant-Kels
- Department of Dermatology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut; Department of Pathology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut; Department of Pediatrics, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut
| | - Allan C Halpern
- Department of Dermatology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Timothy M Johnson
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan; Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Arthur J Sober
- Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - John A Thompson
- Division of Oncology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington; Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, Seattle, Washington
| | - Oliver J Wisco
- Department of Dermatology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | | | - Shasa Hu
- Department of Dermatology, University of Miami Health System, Miami, Florida
| | - Toyin Lamina
- American Academy of Dermatology, Rosemont, Illinois
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Yang S, Leone DA, Biswas A, Deng A, Jukic D, Singh R, Sundram U, Mahalingam M. Concordance of somatic mutation profiles (BRAF,NRAS, and TERT) and tumoral PD-L1 in matched primary cutaneous and metastatic melanoma samples. Hum Pathol 2018; 82:206-214. [PMID: 30120967 DOI: 10.1016/j.humpath.2018.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2018] [Revised: 07/25/2018] [Accepted: 08/01/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Despite the efficacy of BRAF-targeted and PD-L1-related immune therapies in tackling metastatic melanoma, a significant number of patients exhibit resistance. Given this, the objective of the current study was to ascertain concordance of somatic mutations in BRAF/NRAS/TERT and immunohistochemical PD-L1 and CD8 in matched primary cutaneous and metastatic melanoma. A total of 43 archival paired samples with sufficient material for genetic and immunohistochemical analyses met the criteria for inclusion in the study. Immunohistochemistry was performed for PD-L1 and CD8 and direct-DNA Sanger sequencing for BRAF/NRAS/TERT promoter mutational analyses. Agreement between paired samples was assessed using Cohen κ. Poor concordance among primary and corresponding metastases was noted in BRAF (9/42 cases discordant, κ = 0.49; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.21-0.77; P = .0013), TERT promoter mutations (13/41 cases discordant, κ = 0.33; 95% CI, 0.04-0.62; P = .033), tumoral PD-L1 immunoexpression (9/43 cases discordant, κ = 0.39; 95% CI, 0.07-0.72; P = .0099), and immunoexpression of CD8+ T lymphocytes (12/43 cases discordant, κ = 0.44; 95% CI, 0.19-0.69; P = .002). Although NRAS1 and NRAS2 were highly concordant (42/43 and 39/43 cases, respectively), discordant NRAS2 mutational status was associated with a median time to metastasis of 90 versus 455 days for pairs with concordant status (P = .07). Although limited by sample size, our findings suggest that consideration be given to mutational analysis of metastatic tissue rather than the primary to guide BRAF-targeted therapy and question the roles of TERT promoter mutations and PD-L1 as predictive biomarkers in malignant melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shi Yang
- Department of Pathology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Dominick A Leone
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118, USA; Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Asok Biswas
- Department of Pathology, Western General Hospital and the University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland EH1
| | - April Deng
- Department of Pathology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01606, USA
| | - Drazen Jukic
- Department of Dermatology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32601, USA; Mercer University School of Medicine, Macon, GA 31201, USA; James A. Haley VA Center (PLMS), Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Rajendra Singh
- Department of Pathology and Dermatology, Icahn School of Medicine Mount Sinai, New York, NY 11766, USA
| | - Uma Sundram
- Department of Anatomic Pathology, Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine and Beaumont Health Systems, Royal Oak, MI 48017, USA
| | - Meera Mahalingam
- Dermatopathology Section, VA Integrated Systems Network (VISN1), Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, West Roxbury, MA 02132, USA.
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