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Felipe I, Real FX. PDAC heterogeneity resolved spatially at the single-cell level: new biological answers, new questions on optimal translation †. J Pathol 2024. [PMID: 38828491 DOI: 10.1002/path.6293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2024] [Revised: 03/31/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a highly aggressive disease. Developing new strategies and using powerful methodologies for its early detection, coupled with in-depth comprehension of the mechanisms governing subtype evolution, will not only help to stratify PDAC patients' prognosis but also prevent unfavourable subtype plasticity upon treatment with chemotherapy. Michiels et al have developed a new approach to better capture PDAC heterogeneity at the single tumour duct spatial resolution level, leveraging detection of transcripts for mutant KRAS and multiple subtype markers. Their study sheds light on the association of mutant KRAS and PDAC phenotypic heterogeneity. The findings support functional cooperation of plastic tumour cells and opens new challenges towards PDAC patient stratification and therapeutic intervention. Pathology-based tools will be of prime importance to address these issues in a clinically meaningful manner. © 2024 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Felipe
- Epithelial Carcinogenesis Group, Spanish National Cancer Centre - CNIO, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Cáncer, Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco X Real
- Epithelial Carcinogenesis Group, Spanish National Cancer Centre - CNIO, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Cáncer, Madrid, Spain
- Departament de Medicina i Ciències de la Vida, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
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2
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Tomić G, Sheridan C, Refermat AY, Baggelaar MP, Sipthorp J, Sudarshan B, Ocasio CA, Suárez-Bonnet A, Priestnall SL, Herbert E, Tate EW, Downward J. Palmitoyl transferase ZDHHC20 promotes pancreatic cancer metastasis. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114224. [PMID: 38733589 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114224] [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: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Metastasis is one of the defining features of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) that contributes to poor prognosis. In this study, the palmitoyl transferase ZDHHC20 was identified in an in vivo short hairpin RNA (shRNA) screen as critical for metastatic outgrowth, with no effect on proliferation and migration in vitro or primary PDAC growth in mice. This phenotype is abrogated in immunocompromised animals and animals with depleted natural killer (NK) cells, indicating that ZDHHC20 affects the interaction of tumor cells and the innate immune system. Using a chemical genetics platform for ZDHHC20-specific substrate profiling, a number of substrates of this enzyme were identified. These results describe a role for palmitoylation in enabling distant metastasis that could not have been detected using in vitro screening approaches and identify potential effectors through which ZDHHC20 promotes metastasis of PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goran Tomić
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Clare Sheridan
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | | | - Marc P Baggelaar
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK; Imperial College London, Department of Chemistry, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, 80 Wood Lane, London W12 0BZ, UK
| | - James Sipthorp
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK; Imperial College London, Department of Chemistry, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, 80 Wood Lane, London W12 0BZ, UK
| | | | - Cory A Ocasio
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Alejandro Suárez-Bonnet
- The Royal Veterinary College, Department of Pathobiology & Population Sciences, Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield AL9 7TA, UK; Experimental Histopathology, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Simon L Priestnall
- The Royal Veterinary College, Department of Pathobiology & Population Sciences, Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield AL9 7TA, UK; Experimental Histopathology, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Eleanor Herbert
- The Royal Veterinary College, Department of Pathobiology & Population Sciences, Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield AL9 7TA, UK; Experimental Histopathology, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Edward W Tate
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK; Imperial College London, Department of Chemistry, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, 80 Wood Lane, London W12 0BZ, UK
| | - Julian Downward
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK.
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Seeger N, Gutknecht S, Zschokke I, Fleischmann I, Roth N, Metzger J, Weber M, Breitenstein S, Grochola LF. A Predictive Noninvasive Single-Nucleotide Variation-Based Biomarker Signature for Resectable Pancreatic Cancer: Protocol for a Prospective Validation Study. JMIR Res Protoc 2024; 13:e54042. [PMID: 38635586 PMCID: PMC11130767 DOI: 10.2196/54042] [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: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Single-nucleotide variations (SNVs; formerly SNPs) are inherited genetic variants that can be easily determined in routine clinical practice using a simple blood or saliva test. SNVs have potential to serve as noninvasive biomarkers for predicting cancer-specific patient outcomes after resection of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Two recent analyses led to the identification and validation of three SNVs in the CD44 and CHI3L2 genes (rs187115, rs353630, and rs684559), which can be used as predictive biomarkers to help select patients most likely to benefit from pancreatic resection. These variants were associated with an over 2-fold increased risk for tumor-related death in three independent PDAC study cohorts from Europe and the United States, including The Cancer Genome Atlas cohorts (reaching a P value of 1×10-8). However, these analyses were limited by the inherent biases of a retrospective study design, such as selection and publication biases, thereby limiting the clinical use of these promising biomarkers in guiding PDAC therapy. OBJECTIVE To overcome the limitations of previous retrospectively designed studies and translate the findings into clinical practice, we aim to validate the association of the identified SNVs with survival in a controlled setting using a prospective cohort of patients with PDAC following pancreatic resection. METHODS All patients with PDAC who will undergo pancreatic resection at three participating hospitals in Switzerland and fulfill the inclusion criteria will be included in the study consecutively. The SNV genotypes will be determined using standard genotyping techniques from patient blood samples. For each genotyped locus, log-rank and Cox multivariate regression tests will be performed, accounting for the relevant covariates American Joint Committee on Cancer stage and resection status. Clinical follow-up data will be collected for at least 3 years. Sample size calculation resulted in a required sample of 150 patients to sufficiently power the analysis. RESULTS The follow-up data collection started in August 2019 and the estimated end of data collection will be in May 2027. The study is still recruiting participants and 142 patients have been recruited as of November 2023. The DNA extraction and genotyping of the SNVs will be performed after inclusion of the last patient. Since no SNV genotypes have been determined, no data analysis has been performed to date. The results are expected to be published in 2027. CONCLUSIONS This is the first prospective study of the CD44 and CHI3L2 SNV-based biomarker signature in PDAC. A prospective validation of this signature would enable its clinical use as a noninvasive predictive biomarker of survival after pancreatic resection that is readily available at the time of diagnosis and can assist in guiding PDAC therapy. The results of this study may help to individualize treatment decisions and potentially improve patient outcomes. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/54042.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nico Seeger
- Department of Visceral and Thoracic Surgery, Cantonal Hospital of Winterthur, Winterthur, Switzerland
| | - Stefan Gutknecht
- Department of Visceral, Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Triemli Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Irin Zschokke
- Department of General and Visceral Surgery, Cantonal Hospital of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Isabella Fleischmann
- Department of General and Visceral Surgery, Cantonal Hospital of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Nadja Roth
- Department of General and Visceral Surgery, Cantonal Hospital of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Jürg Metzger
- Department of General and Visceral Surgery, Cantonal Hospital of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Markus Weber
- Department of Visceral, Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Triemli Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Stefan Breitenstein
- Department of Visceral and Thoracic Surgery, Cantonal Hospital of Winterthur, Winterthur, Switzerland
| | - Lukasz Filip Grochola
- Department of Visceral and Thoracic Surgery, Cantonal Hospital of Winterthur, Winterthur, Switzerland
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Qin X, Gan Z, Liu H, Tao T, He J, Li X, Shang D, Li X, Xie F, Qin J. A Pump-Free Strategy for the Controllable Generation of Alginate Microgels as Cellular Microcarriers. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2024. [PMID: 38711418 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.4c00375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Microgels are advanced scaffolds for tissue engineering due to their proper biodegradability, good biocompatibility, and high specific surface area for effective oxygen and nutrient transfer. However, most of the current monodispersed microgel fabrication systems rely heavily on various precision pumps, which highly increase the cost and complexity of their downstream application. In this work, we developed a simple and facile system for the controllable generation of uniform alginate microgels by integrating a gas-shearing strategy into a glass microfluidic device. Importantly, the cell-laden microgels can be rapidly prepared in a pump-free manner under an all-aqueous environment. The three-dimensional cultured green fluorescent protein-human A549 cells in alginate microgels exhibited enhanced stemness and drug resistance compared to those under two-dimensional conditions. The pancreatic cancer organoids in alginate microgels exhibited some of the key features of pancreatic cancer. The proposed microgels showed decent monodispersity, biocompatibility, and versatility, providing great opportunities in various biomedical applications such as microcarrier fabricating, organoid engineering, and high-throughput drug screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyuan Qin
- Division of Biotechnology, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Zhongqiao Gan
- Division of Biotechnology, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Haitao Liu
- Division of Biotechnology, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Tingting Tao
- Division of Biotechnology, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Jia He
- Division of Biotechnology, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Xianliang Li
- Department of HBP Surgery, Beijing Chao Yang Hospital, the Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Dong Shang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, No.222 Zhongshan Road, Dalian 116011, China
- Clinical Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, No.222 Zhongshan Road, Dalian 116011, China
| | - Xiang Li
- Key Laboratory of Tobacco Chemistry, Zhengzhou Tobacco Research Institute of CNTC, No. 2 Fengyang Street, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Fuwei Xie
- Key Laboratory of Tobacco Chemistry, Zhengzhou Tobacco Research Institute of CNTC, No. 2 Fengyang Street, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Jianhua Qin
- Division of Biotechnology, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing 100049, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, CAS, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
- Suzhou Institute for Advanced Research, University of Science and Technology of China, Suzhou 215123, China
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Park JK, Jeong HO, Kim H, Choi JH, Lee EM, Kim S, Jang J, Choi DWY, Lee SH, Kim KM, Jang KT, Lee KH, Lee KT, Lee MW, Lee JK, Lee S. Single-cell transcriptome analysis reveals subtype-specific clonal evolution and microenvironmental changes in liver metastasis of pancreatic adenocarcinoma and their clinical implications. Mol Cancer 2024; 23:87. [PMID: 38702773 PMCID: PMC11067162 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-024-02003-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intratumoral heterogeneity (ITH) and tumor microenvironment (TME) of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) play important roles in tumor evolution and patient outcomes. However, the precise characterization of diverse cell populations and their crosstalk associated with PDAC progression and metastasis is still challenging. METHODS We performed single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) of treatment-naïve primary PDAC samples with and without paired liver metastasis samples to understand the interplay between ITH and TME in the PDAC evolution and its clinical associations. RESULTS scRNA-seq analysis revealed that even a small proportion (22%) of basal-like malignant ductal cells could lead to poor chemotherapy response and patient survival and that epithelial-mesenchymal transition programs were largely subtype-specific. The clonal homogeneity significantly increased with more prevalent and pronounced copy number gains of oncogenes, such as KRAS and ETV1, and losses of tumor suppressor genes, such as SMAD2 and MAP2K4, along PDAC progression and metastasis. Moreover, diverse immune cell populations, including naïve SELLhi regulatory T cells (Tregs) and activated TIGIThi Tregs, contributed to shaping immunosuppressive TMEs of PDAC through cellular interactions with malignant ductal cells in PDAC evolution. Importantly, the proportion of basal-like ductal cells negatively correlated with that of immunoreactive cell populations, such as cytotoxic T cells, but positively correlated with that of immunosuppressive cell populations, such as Tregs. CONCLUSION We uncover that the proportion of basal-like subtype is a key determinant for chemotherapy response and patient outcome, and that PDAC clonally evolves with subtype-specific dosage changes of cancer-associated genes by forming immunosuppressive microenvironments in its progression and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joo Kyung Park
- Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Samsung Advanced Institute for Health Sciences & Technology (SAIHST), Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyoung-Oh Jeong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Information-Bio Convergence Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyemin Kim
- Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Ho Choi
- Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Mi Lee
- Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seunghoon Kim
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Information-Bio Convergence Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinho Jang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Information-Bio Convergence Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan, Republic of Korea
| | - David Whee-Young Choi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Information-Bio Convergence Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Se-Hoon Lee
- Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Samsung Advanced Institute for Health Sciences & Technology (SAIHST), Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyoung Mee Kim
- Department of Pathology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kee-Taek Jang
- Department of Pathology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwang Hyuck Lee
- Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyu Taek Lee
- Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Woo Lee
- Department of Radiology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jong Kyun Lee
- Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Semin Lee
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Information-Bio Convergence Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan, Republic of Korea.
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Vallés-Martí A, de Goeij-de Haas RR, Henneman AA, Piersma SR, Pham TV, Knol JC, Verheij J, Dijk F, Halfwerk H, Giovannetti E, Jiménez CR, Bijlsma MF. Kinase activities in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma with prognostic and therapeutic avenues. Mol Oncol 2024. [PMID: 38650175 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a devastating disease with a limited number of known driver mutations but considerable cancer cell heterogeneity. Phosphoproteomics provides a direct read-out of aberrant signaling and the resultant clinically relevant phenotype. Mass spectrometry (MS)-based proteomics and phosphoproteomics were applied to 42 PDAC tumors. Data encompassed over 19 936 phosphoserine or phosphothreonine (pS/T; in 5412 phosphoproteins) and 1208 phosphotyrosine (pY; in 501 phosphoproteins) sites and a total of 3756 proteins. Proteome data identified three distinct subtypes with tumor intrinsic and stromal features. Subsequently, three phospho-subtypes were apparent: two tumor intrinsic (Phos1/2) and one stromal (Phos3), resembling known PDAC molecular subtypes. Kinase activity was analyzed by the Integrative iNferred Kinase Activity (INKA) scoring. Phospho-subtypes displayed differential phosphorylation signals and kinase activity, such as FGR and GSK3 activation in Phos1, SRC kinase family and EPHA2 in Phos2, and EGFR, INSR, MET, ABL1, HIPK1, JAK, and PRKCD in Phos3. Kinase activity analysis of an external PDAC cohort supported our findings and underscored the importance of PI3K/AKT and ERK pathways, among others. Interestingly, unfavorable patient prognosis correlated with higher RTK, PAK2, STK10, and CDK7 activity and high proliferation, whereas long survival was associated with MYLK and PTK6 activity, which was previously unknown. Subtype-associated activity profiles can guide therapeutic combination approaches in tumor and stroma-enriched tissues, and emphasize the critical role of parallel signaling pathways. In addition, kinase activity profiling identifies potential disease markers with prognostic significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Vallés-Martí
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- OncoProteomics Laboratory, Cancer Center Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Biology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Pharmacology Laboratory, Cancer Center Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Richard R de Goeij-de Haas
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- OncoProteomics Laboratory, Cancer Center Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Alex A Henneman
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- OncoProteomics Laboratory, Cancer Center Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sander R Piersma
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- OncoProteomics Laboratory, Cancer Center Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Thang V Pham
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- OncoProteomics Laboratory, Cancer Center Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jaco C Knol
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- OncoProteomics Laboratory, Cancer Center Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Joanne Verheij
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, The Netherlands
| | - Frederike Dijk
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, The Netherlands
| | - Hans Halfwerk
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, The Netherlands
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Pharmacology Laboratory, Cancer Center Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Pharmacology Lab, AIRC Start-Up Unit, Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza, San Giuliano Terme, Italy
| | - Connie R Jiménez
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- OncoProteomics Laboratory, Cancer Center Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maarten F Bijlsma
- Cancer Biology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Nguyen A, Mustafa AHM, Leydecker AK, Halilovic M, Murr J, Butter F, Krämer OH. The protein phosphatase-2A subunit PR130 is involved in the formation of cytotoxic protein aggregates in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cells. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:217. [PMID: 38570831 PMCID: PMC10993613 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01597-8] [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: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
As a major source of cellular serine and threonine phosphatase activity, protein phosphatase-2A (PP2A) modulates signaling pathways in health and disease. PP2A complexes consist of catalytic, scaffolding, and B-type subunits. Seventeen PP2A B-type subunits direct PP2A complexes to selected substrates. It is ill-defined how PP2A B-type subunits determine the growth and drug responsiveness of tumor cells. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a disease with poor prognosis. We analyzed the responses of murine and human mesenchymal and epithelial PDAC cells to the specific PP2A inhibitor phendione. We assessed protein levels by immunoblot and proteomics and cell fate by flow cytometry, confocal microscopy, and genetic manipulation. We show that murine mesenchymal PDAC cells express significantly higher levels of the PP2A B-type subunit PR130 than epithelial PDAC cells. This overexpression of PR130 is associated with a dependency of such metastasis-prone cells on the catalytic activity of PP2A. Phendione induces apoptosis and an accumulation of cytotoxic protein aggregates in murine mesenchymal and human PDAC cells. These processes occur independently of the frequently mutated tumor suppressor p53. Proteomic analyses reveal that phendione upregulates the chaperone HSP70 in mesenchymal PDAC cells. Inhibition of HSP70 promotes phendione-induced apoptosis and phendione promotes a proteasomal degradation of PR130. Genetic elimination of PR130 sensitizes murine and human PDAC cells to phendione-induced apoptosis and protein aggregate formation. These data suggest that the PP2A-PR130 complex dephosphorylates and thereby prevents the aggregation of proteins in tumor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Nguyen
- Institute of Toxicology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Obere Zahlbacher St. 67, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - Al-Hassan M Mustafa
- Institute of Toxicology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Obere Zahlbacher St. 67, 55131, Mainz, Germany
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Aswan University, Aswan, Egypt
| | - Alessa K Leydecker
- Institute of Toxicology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Obere Zahlbacher St. 67, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - Melisa Halilovic
- Institute of Toxicology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Obere Zahlbacher St. 67, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - Janine Murr
- Medical Clinic and Polyclinic II, Klinikum Rechts Der Isar, Technical University Munich, 81675, Munich, Germany
| | - Falk Butter
- Institute of Molecular Biology (IMB), Ackermannweg 4, 55128, Mainz, Germany
- Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Südufer 10, 17493, Greifswald, Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Oliver H Krämer
- Institute of Toxicology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Obere Zahlbacher St. 67, 55131, Mainz, Germany.
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8
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Guo X, Bian X, Li Y, Zhu X, Zhou X. The intricate dance of tumor evolution: Exploring immune escape, tumor migration, drug resistance, and treatment strategies. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2024; 1870:167098. [PMID: 38412927 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2024.167098] [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: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Recent research has unveiled fascinating insights into the intricate mechanisms governing tumor evolution. These studies have illuminated how tumors adapt and proliferate by exploiting various factors, including immune evasion, resistance to therapeutic drugs, genetic mutations, and their ability to adapt to different environments. Furthermore, investigations into tumor heterogeneity and chromosomal aberrations have revealed the profound complexity that underlies the evolution of cancer. Emerging findings have also underscored the role of viral influences in the development and progression of cancer, introducing an additional layer of complexity to the field of oncology. Tumor evolution is a dynamic and complex process influenced by various factors, including immune evasion, drug resistance, tumor heterogeneity, and viral influences. Understanding these elements is indispensable for developing more effective treatments and advancing cancer therapies. A holistic approach to studying and addressing tumor evolution is crucial in the ongoing battle against cancer. The main goal of this comprehensive review is to explore the intricate relationship between tumor evolution and critical aspects of cancer biology. By delving into this complex interplay, we aim to provide a profound understanding of how tumors evolve, adapt, and respond to treatment strategies. This review underscores the pivotal importance of comprehending tumor evolution in shaping effective approaches to cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojun Guo
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, China; The Marine Biomedical Research Institute of Guangdong Zhanjiang, School of Ocean and Tropical Medicine, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Xiaonan Bian
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Yitong Li
- The Marine Biomedical Research Institute of Guangdong Zhanjiang, School of Ocean and Tropical Medicine, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Xiao Zhu
- The Marine Biomedical Research Institute of Guangdong Zhanjiang, School of Ocean and Tropical Medicine, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China.
| | - Xiaorong Zhou
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, China.
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9
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Linehan A, O’Reilly M, McDermott R, O’Kane GM. Targeting KRAS mutations in pancreatic cancer: opportunities for future strategies. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1369136. [PMID: 38576709 PMCID: PMC10991798 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1369136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Targeting the RAS pathway remains the holy grail of precision oncology. In the case of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas (PDAC), 90-92% harbor mutations in the oncogene KRAS, triggering canonical MAPK signaling. The smooth structure of the altered KRAS protein without a binding pocket and its affinity for GTP have, in the past, hampered drug development. The emergence of KRASG12C covalent inhibitors has provided renewed enthusiasm for targeting KRAS. The numerous pathways implicated in RAS activation do, however, lead to the development of early resistance. In addition, the dense stromal niche and immunosuppressive microenvironment dictated by oncogenic KRAS can influence treatment responses, highlighting the need for a combination-based approach. Given that mutations in KRAS occur early in PDAC tumorigenesis, an understanding of its pleiotropic effects is key to progress in this disease. Herein, we review current perspectives on targeting KRAS with a focus on PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Linehan
- Department of Medical Oncology, St Vincent’s University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mary O’Reilly
- Department of Medical Oncology, St Vincent’s University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Ray McDermott
- Department of Medical Oncology, St Vincent’s University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Grainne M. O’Kane
- Department of Medical Oncology, St James’s Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
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10
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Tsanov KM, Barriga FM, Ho YJ, Alonso-Curbelo D, Livshits G, Koche RP, Baslan T, Simon J, Tian S, Wuest AN, Luan W, Wilkinson JE, Masilionis I, Dimitrova N, Iacobuzio-Donahue CA, Chaligné R, Pe’er D, Massagué J, Lowe SW. Metastatic site influences driver gene function in pancreatic cancer. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.17.585402. [PMID: 38562717 PMCID: PMC10983983 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.17.585402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Driver gene mutations can increase the metastatic potential of the primary tumor1-3, but their role in sustaining tumor growth at metastatic sites is poorly understood. A paradigm of such mutations is inactivation of SMAD4 - a transcriptional effector of TGFβ signaling - which is a hallmark of multiple gastrointestinal malignancies4,5. SMAD4 inactivation mediates TGFβ's remarkable anti- to pro-tumorigenic switch during cancer progression and can thus influence both tumor initiation and metastasis6-14. To determine whether metastatic tumors remain dependent on SMAD4 inactivation, we developed a mouse model of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) that enables Smad4 depletion in the pre-malignant pancreas and subsequent Smad4 reactivation in established metastases. As expected, Smad4 inactivation facilitated the formation of primary tumors that eventually colonized the liver and lungs. By contrast, Smad4 reactivation in metastatic disease had strikingly opposite effects depending on the tumor's organ of residence: suppression of liver metastases and promotion of lung metastases. Integrative multiomic analysis revealed organ-specific differences in the tumor cells' epigenomic state, whereby the liver and lungs harbored chromatin programs respectively dominated by the KLF and RUNX developmental transcription factors, with Klf4 depletion being sufficient to reverse Smad4's tumor-suppressive activity in liver metastases. Our results show how epigenetic states favored by the organ of residence can influence the function of driver genes in metastatic tumors. This organ-specific gene-chromatin interplay invites consideration of anatomical site in the interpretation of tumor genetics, with implications for the therapeutic targeting of metastatic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaloyan M. Tsanov
- Cancer Biology & Genetics Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Francisco M. Barriga
- Cancer Biology & Genetics Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Vall d’Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Yu-Jui Ho
- Cancer Biology & Genetics Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Direna Alonso-Curbelo
- Cancer Biology & Genetics Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Geulah Livshits
- Cancer Biology & Genetics Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Richard P. Koche
- Center for Epigenetics Research, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Timour Baslan
- Cancer Biology & Genetics Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, The University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Janelle Simon
- Cancer Biology & Genetics Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sha Tian
- Cancer Biology & Genetics Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alexandra N. Wuest
- Cancer Biology & Genetics Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Wei Luan
- Cancer Biology & Genetics Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - John E. Wilkinson
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan School of Medicine, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Ignas Masilionis
- Computational & Systems Biology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Nevenka Dimitrova
- Cancer Biology & Genetics Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Christine A. Iacobuzio-Donahue
- David M. Rubenstein Center for Pancreatic Cancer Research, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ronan Chaligné
- Computational & Systems Biology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Dana Pe’er
- Computational & Systems Biology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
| | - Joan Massagué
- Cancer Biology & Genetics Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Scott W. Lowe
- Cancer Biology & Genetics Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
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11
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Choi MH, Yoon SB, Lee YJ, Jung ES, Pak S, Han D, Nickel D. Rim enhancement of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma: investigating the relationship with DCE-MRI-based radiomics and next-generation sequencing. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1304187. [PMID: 38525415 PMCID: PMC10959187 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1304187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose To identify the clinical and genetic variables associated with rim enhancement of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and to develop a dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) MRI-based radiomics model for predicting the genetic status from next-generation sequencing (NGS). Materials and methods Patients with PDAC, who underwent pretreatment pancreatic DCE-MRI between November 2019 and July 2021, were eligible in this prospective study. Two radiologists evaluated presence of rim enhancement in PDAC, a known radiological prognostic indicator, on DCE MRI. NGS was conducted for the tissue from the lesion. The Mann-Whitney U and Chi-square tests were employed to identify clinical and genetic variables associated with rim enhancement in PDAC. For continuous variables predicting rim enhancement, the cutoff value was set based on the Youden's index from the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Radiomics features were extracted from a volume-of-interest of PDAC on four DCE maps (Ktrans, Kep, Ve, and iAUC). A random forest (RF) model was constructed using 10 selected radiomics features from a pool of 392 original features. This model aimed to predict the status of significant NGS variables associated with rim enhancement. The performance of the model was validated using test set. Results A total of 55 patients (32 men; median age 71 years) were randomly assigned to the training (n = 41) and test (n = 14) sets. In the training set, KRAS, TP53, CDKN2A, and SMAD4 mutation rates were 92.3%, 61.8%, 14.5%, and 9.1%, respectively. Tumor size and KRAS variant allele frequency (VAF) differed between rim-enhancing (n = 12) and nonrim-enhancing (n = 29) PDACs with a cutoff of 17.22%. The RF model's average AUC from 10-fold cross-validation for predicting KRAS VAF status was 0.698. In the test set comprising 6 tumors with low KRAS VAF and 8 with high KRAS VAF, the RF model's AUC reached 1.000, achieving a sensitivity of 75.0%, specificity of 100% and accuracy of 87.5%. Conclusion Rim enhancement of PDAC is associated with KRAS VAF derived from NGS-based genetic information. For predicting the KRAS VAF status in PDAC, a radiomics model based on DCE maps showed promising results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moon Hyung Choi
- Department of Radiology, Eunpyeong St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Bae Yoon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Eunpyeong St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Joon Lee
- Department of Radiology, Eunpyeong St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Sun Jung
- Department of Hospital Pathology, Eunpyeong St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seongyong Pak
- Research Collaboration, Siemens Healthineers Ltd., Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Dongyeob Han
- Research Collaboration, Siemens Healthineers Ltd., Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Dominik Nickel
- MR Applications Predevelopment, Siemens Healthcare GmbH, Erlangen, Germany
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12
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Zheng C, Wang J, Wang J, Zhang Q, Liang T. Cell of Origin of Pancreatic cancer: Novel Findings and Current Understanding. Pancreas 2024; 53:e288-e297. [PMID: 38277420 DOI: 10.1097/mpa.0000000000002301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) stands as one of the most lethal diseases globally, boasting a grim 5-year survival prognosis. The origin cell and the molecular signaling pathways that drive PDAC progression are not entirely understood. This review comprehensively outlines the categorization of PDAC and its precursor lesions, expounds on the creation and utility of genetically engineered mouse models used in PDAC research, compiles a roster of commonly used markers for pancreatic progenitors, duct cells, and acinar cells, and briefly addresses the mechanisms involved in the progression of PDAC. We acknowledge the value of precise markers and suitable tracing tools to discern the cell of origin, as it can facilitate the creation of more effective models for PDAC exploration. These conclusions shed light on our existing understanding of foundational genetically engineered mouse models and focus on the origin and development of PDAC.
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13
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Huang YK, Cheng WC, Kuo TT, Yang JC, Wu YC, Wu HH, Lo CC, Hsieh CY, Wong SC, Lu CH, Wu WL, Liu SJ, Li YC, Lin CC, Shen CN, Hung MC, Lin JT, Yeh CC, Sher YP. Inhibition of ADAM9 promotes the selective degradation of KRAS and sensitizes pancreatic cancers to chemotherapy. NATURE CANCER 2024; 5:400-419. [PMID: 38267627 DOI: 10.1038/s43018-023-00720-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Kirsten rat sarcoma virus (KRAS) signaling drives pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) malignancy, which is an unmet clinical need. Here, we identify a disintegrin and metalloproteinase domain (ADAM)9 as a modulator of PDAC progression via stabilization of wild-type and mutant KRAS proteins. Mechanistically, ADAM9 loss increases the interaction of KRAS with plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1), which functions as a selective autophagy receptor in conjunction with light chain 3 (LC3), triggering lysosomal degradation of KRAS. Suppression of ADAM9 by a small-molecule inhibitor restricts disease progression in spontaneous models, and combination with gemcitabine elicits dramatic regression of patient-derived tumors. Our findings provide a promising strategy to target the KRAS signaling cascade and demonstrate a potential modality to enhance sensitivity to chemotherapy in PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Kai Huang
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Chung Cheng
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Cancer Biology and Precision Therapeutics Center, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Ph.D. Program for Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery, China Medical University and Academia Sinica, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Ting-Ting Kuo
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Juan-Cheng Yang
- School of Chinese Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Yang-Chang Wu
- Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, College of Medical and Health Science, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Heng-Hsiung Wu
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Chien Lo
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Center for Molecular Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Ying Hsieh
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Sze-Ching Wong
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Hao Lu
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Systems Biology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wan-Ling Wu
- National Institute of Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Jen Liu
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- National Institute of Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Chuan Li
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Chan Lin
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Ning Shen
- Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Mien-Chie Hung
- Cancer Biology and Precision Therapeutics Center, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Center for Molecular Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Jaw-Town Lin
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, E-Da Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Chieh Yeh
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.
- Department of Surgery, Organ Transplantation Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.
| | - Yuh-Pyng Sher
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.
- Cancer Biology and Precision Therapeutics Center, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.
- Ph.D. Program for Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery, China Medical University and Academia Sinica, Taichung, Taiwan.
- Center for Molecular Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.
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14
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Francescone R, Crawford HC, Vendramini-Costa DB. Rethinking the Roles of Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in Pancreatic Cancer. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 17:737-743. [PMID: 38316215 PMCID: PMC10966284 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2024.01.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Bearing a dismal 5-year survival rate, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a challenging disease that features a unique fibroinflammatory tumor microenvironment. As major components of the PDAC tumor microenvironment, cancer-associated fibroblasts are still poorly understood and their contribution to the several hallmarks of PDAC, such as resistance to therapies, immunosuppression, and high incidence of metastasis, is likely underestimated. There have been encouraging advances in the understanding of these fascinating cells, but many controversies remain, leaving the field still actively exploring the full scope of their contributions in PDAC progression. Here we pose several important considerations regarding PDAC cancer-associated fibroblast functions. We posit that transcriptomic analyses be interpreted with caution, when aiming to uncover the functional contributions of these cells. Moreover, we propose that normalizing these functions, rather than eliminating them, will provide the opportunity to enhance therapeutic response. Finally, we propose that cancer-associated fibroblasts should not be studied in isolation, but in conjunction with its extracellular matrix, because their respective functions are coordinated and concordant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralph Francescone
- Department of Surgery, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, Michigan; Henry Ford Pancreatic Cancer Center, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Howard C Crawford
- Department of Surgery, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, Michigan; Henry Ford Pancreatic Cancer Center, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Debora Barbosa Vendramini-Costa
- Department of Surgery, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, Michigan; Henry Ford Pancreatic Cancer Center, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, Michigan.
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15
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Kern J, Schilling D, Schneeweis C, Schmid RM, Schneider G, Combs SE, Dobiasch S. Identification of the unfolded protein response pathway as target for radiosensitization in pancreatic cancer. Radiother Oncol 2024; 191:110059. [PMID: 38135186 DOI: 10.1016/j.radonc.2023.110059] [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: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Due to the high intrinsic radioresistance of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), radiotherapy (RT) is only beneficial in 30% of patients. Therefore, this study aimed to identify targets to improve the efficacy of RT in PDAC. MATERIALS AND METHODS Alamar Blue proliferation and colony formation assay (CFA) were used to determine the radioresponse of a cohort of 38 murine PDAC cell lines. A gene set enrichment analysis was performed to reveal differentially expressed pathways. CFA, cell cycle distribution, γH2AX FACS analysis, and Caspase 3/7 SYTOX assay were used to examine the effect of a combination treatment using KIRA8 as an IRE1α-inhibitor and Ceapin-A7 as an inhibitor against ATF6. RESULTS The unfolded protein response (UPR) was identified as a pathway highly expressed in radioresistant cell lines. Using the IRE1α-inhibitor KIRA8 or the ATF6-inhibitor Ceapin-A7 in combination with radiation, a radiosensitizing effect was observed in radioresistant cell lines, but no substantial alteration of the radioresponse in radiosensitive cell lines. Mechanistically, increased apoptosis by KIRA8 in combination with radiation and a cell cycle arrest in the G1 phase after ATF6 inhibition and radiation have been observed in radioresistant cell lines. CONCLUSION So, our data show evidence that the UPR is involved in radioresistance of PDAC. Increased apoptosis and a G1 cell cycle arrest seem to be responsible for the radiosensitizing effect of UPR inhibition. These findings are supportive for developing novel combination treatment concepts in PDAC to overcome radioresistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Kern
- Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Daniela Schilling
- Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany; Institute of Radiation Medicine (IRM), Department of Radiation Sciences, Helmholtz Zentrum Munich, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Christian Schneeweis
- Department of Medicine II, School of Medicine, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Roland M Schmid
- Department of Medicine II, School of Medicine, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Günter Schneider
- Department of Medicine II, School of Medicine, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany; Department of General Visceral and Pediatric Surgery, University Medical Center Göttingen, Germany
| | - Stephanie E Combs
- Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany; Institute of Radiation Medicine (IRM), Department of Radiation Sciences, Helmholtz Zentrum Munich, Neuherberg, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Sophie Dobiasch
- Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany; Institute of Radiation Medicine (IRM), Department of Radiation Sciences, Helmholtz Zentrum Munich, Neuherberg, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, Munich, Germany.
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16
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Adamopoulos C, Cave DD, Papavassiliou AG. Inhibition of the RAF/MEK/ERK Signaling Cascade in Pancreatic Cancer: Recent Advances and Future Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1631. [PMID: 38338909 PMCID: PMC10855714 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer represents a formidable challenge in oncology, primarily due to its aggressive nature and limited therapeutic options. The prognosis of patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), the main form of pancreatic cancer, remains disappointingly poor with a 5-year overall survival of only 5%. Almost 95% of PDAC patients harbor Kirsten rat sarcoma virus (KRAS) oncogenic mutations. KRAS activates downstream intracellular pathways, most notably the rapidly accelerated fibrosarcoma (RAF)/mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling axis. Dysregulation of the RAF/MEK/ERK pathway is a crucial feature of pancreatic cancer and therefore its main components, RAF, MEK and ERK kinases, have been targeted pharmacologically, largely by small-molecule inhibitors. The recent advances in the development of inhibitors not only directly targeting the RAF/MEK/ERK pathway but also indirectly through inhibition of its regulators, such as Src homology-containing protein tyrosine phosphatase 2 (SHP2) and Son of sevenless homolog 1 (SOS1), provide new therapeutic opportunities. Moreover, the discovery of allele-specific small-molecule inhibitors against mutant KRAS variants has brought excitement for successful innovations in the battle against pancreatic cancer. Herein, we review the recent advances in targeted therapy and combinatorial strategies with focus on the current preclinical and clinical approaches, providing critical insight, underscoring the potential of these efforts and supporting their promise to improve the lives of patients with PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christos Adamopoulos
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Donatella Delle Cave
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics ‘Adriano Buzzati-Traverso’, CNR, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Athanasios G. Papavassiliou
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
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17
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Benitz S, Steep A, Nasser M, Preall J, Mahajan UM, McQuithey H, Loveless I, Davis ET, Wen HJ, Long DW, Metzler T, Zwernik S, Louw M, Rempinski D, Salas-Escabillas D, Brender S, Song L, Huang L, Zhang Z, Steele NG, Regel I, Bednar F, Crawford HC. ROR2 regulates cellular plasticity in pancreatic neoplasia and adenocarcinoma. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.12.13.571566. [PMID: 38168289 PMCID: PMC10760092 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.13.571566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Cellular plasticity is a hallmark of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) starting from the conversion of normal cells into precancerous lesions to the progression of carcinoma subtypes associated with aggressiveness and therapeutic response. We discovered that normal acinar cell differentiation, maintained by the transcription factor Pdx1, suppresses a broad gastric cell identity that is maintained in metaplasia, neoplasia, and the classical subtype of PDAC in mouse and human. We have identified the receptor tyrosine kinase Ror2 as marker of a gastric metaplasia (SPEM)-like identity in the pancreas. Ablation of Ror2 in a mouse model of pancreatic tumorigenesis promoted a switch to a gastric pit cell identity that largely persisted through progression to the classical subtype of PDAC. In both human and mouse pancreatic cancer, ROR2 activity continued to antagonize the gastric pit cell identity, strongly promoting an epithelial to mesenchymal transition, conferring resistance to KRAS inhibition, and vulnerability to AKT inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Benitz
- Department of Surgery, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Alec Steep
- Center of Translational Data Science, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Malak Nasser
- Department of Surgery, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Jonathan Preall
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Cancer Center, Cold Spring Harbor, New York, USA
| | - Ujjwal M Mahajan
- Department of Medicine II, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Holly McQuithey
- Department of Surgery, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Ian Loveless
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Erick T Davis
- Department of Surgery, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Hui-Ju Wen
- Department of Surgery, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Daniel W Long
- Department of Surgery, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Thomas Metzler
- Comparative Experimental Pathology (CEP), Institute of Pathology, School of Medicine and Health, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Samuel Zwernik
- Department of Surgery, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Michaela Louw
- Department of Surgery, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Donald Rempinski
- Department of Surgery, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | | | - Sydney Brender
- Department of Surgery, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Linghao Song
- Center of Translational Data Science, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Ling Huang
- Department of Surgery, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Zhenyu Zhang
- Center of Translational Data Science, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Nina G Steele
- Department of Surgery, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Department of Pathology, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, Lansing, Michigan, USA
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Ivonne Regel
- Department of Medicine II, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Filip Bednar
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Howard C Crawford
- Department of Surgery, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, Lansing, Michigan, USA
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
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18
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Najumudeen AK, Fey SK, Millett LM, Ford CA, Gilroy K, Gunduz N, Ridgway RA, Anderson E, Strathdee D, Clark W, Nixon C, Morton JP, Campbell AD, Sansom OJ. KRAS allelic imbalance drives tumour initiation yet suppresses metastasis in colorectal cancer in vivo. Nat Commun 2024; 15:100. [PMID: 38168062 PMCID: PMC10762264 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-44342-4] [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: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Oncogenic KRAS mutations are well-described functionally and are known to drive tumorigenesis. Recent reports describe a significant prevalence of KRAS allelic imbalances or gene dosage changes in human cancers, including loss of the wild-type allele in KRAS mutant cancers. However, the role of wild-type KRAS in tumorigenesis and therapeutic response remains elusive. We report an in vivo murine model of colorectal cancer featuring deletion of wild-type Kras in the context of oncogenic Kras. Deletion of wild-type Kras exacerbates oncogenic KRAS signalling through MAPK and thus drives tumour initiation. Absence of wild-type Kras potentiates the oncogenic effect of KRASG12D, while incidentally inducing sensitivity to inhibition of MEK1/2. Importantly, loss of the wild-type allele in aggressive models of KRASG12D-driven CRC significantly alters tumour progression, and suppresses metastasis through modulation of the immune microenvironment. This study highlights the critical role for wild-type Kras upon tumour initiation, progression and therapeutic response in Kras mutant CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arafath K Najumudeen
- Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute, Glasgow, UK.
- Institute of Biotechnology, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Sigrid K Fey
- Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute, Glasgow, UK
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Laura M Millett
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | | | | | - Nuray Gunduz
- Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute, Glasgow, UK
| | | | - Eve Anderson
- Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute, Glasgow, UK
| | | | | | - Colin Nixon
- Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute, Glasgow, UK
| | - Jennifer P Morton
- Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute, Glasgow, UK
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | | | - Owen J Sansom
- Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute, Glasgow, UK.
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK.
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Michiels E, Madhloum H, Van Lint S, Messaoudi N, Kunda R, Martens S, Giron P, Olsen C, Lefesvre P, Dusetti N, El Mohajer L, Tomasini R, Hawinkels LJ, Ahsayni F, Nicolle R, Arsenijevic T, Bouchart C, Van Laethem JL, Rooman I. High-resolution and quantitative spatial analysis reveal intra-ductal phenotypic and functional diversification in pancreatic cancer. J Pathol 2024; 262:76-89. [PMID: 37842959 DOI: 10.1002/path.6212] [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: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
A 'classical' and a 'basal-like' subtype of pancreatic cancer have been reported, with differential expression of GATA6 and different dosages of mutant KRAS. We established in situ detection of KRAS point mutations and mRNA panels for the consensus subtypes aiming to project these findings to paraffin-embedded clinical tumour samples for spatial quantitative analysis. We unveiled that, next to inter-patient and intra-patient inter-ductal heterogeneity, intraductal spatial phenotypes exist with anti-correlating expression levels of GATA6 and KRASG12D . The basal-like mRNA panel better captured the basal-like cell states than widely used protein markers. The panels corroborated the co-existence of the classical and basal-like cell states in a single tumour duct with functional diversification, i.e. proliferation and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition respectively. Mutant KRASG12D detection ascertained an epithelial origin of vimentin-positive cells in the tumour. Uneven spatial distribution of cancer-associated fibroblasts could recreate similar intra-organoid diversification. This extensive heterogeneity with functional cooperation of plastic tumour cells poses extra challenges to therapeutic approaches. © 2023 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellis Michiels
- Laboratory of Medical & Molecular Oncology (LMMO), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Hediel Madhloum
- Laboratory of Medical & Molecular Oncology (LMMO), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Silke Van Lint
- Laboratory of Medical & Molecular Oncology (LMMO), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nouredin Messaoudi
- Department of Surgery, Department of Gastroenterology-Hepatology, Department of Advanced Interventional Endoscopy, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZB), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Rastislav Kunda
- Department of Surgery, Department of Gastroenterology-Hepatology, Department of Advanced Interventional Endoscopy, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZB), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sandrina Martens
- Laboratory of Medical & Molecular Oncology (LMMO), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Cardio and Organ Systems, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Philippe Giron
- Centre for Medical Genetics, Clinical Sciences, Reproduction and Genetics Research Group, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZB), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Catharina Olsen
- Centre for Medical Genetics, Clinical Sciences, Reproduction and Genetics Research Group, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZB), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Pierre Lefesvre
- Department of Anatomo-Pathology, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nelson Dusetti
- Cancer Research Center of Marseille (CRCM), INSERM, CNRS, Institut Paoli-Calmettes, Aix-Marseille, Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - Leila El Mohajer
- Cancer Research Center of Marseille (CRCM), INSERM, CNRS, Institut Paoli-Calmettes, Aix-Marseille, Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - Richard Tomasini
- Cancer Research Center of Marseille (CRCM), INSERM, CNRS, Institut Paoli-Calmettes, Aix-Marseille, Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - Lukas Jac Hawinkels
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Farah Ahsayni
- Department of Surgery, Department of Gastroenterology-Hepatology, Department of Advanced Interventional Endoscopy, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZB), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Rémy Nicolle
- Centre de Recherche sur l'inflammation (CRI), INSERM, Paris, France
| | - Tatjana Arsenijevic
- Laboratory of Experimental Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Bruxelles, Belgium
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Digestive Oncology, HUB Bordet Erasme Hospital, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Christelle Bouchart
- Department of Radiation-Oncology, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Hospital Universitaire de Bruxelles (HUB) Institut Jules Bordet, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jean-Luc Van Laethem
- Laboratory of Experimental Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Bruxelles, Belgium
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Digestive Oncology, HUB Bordet Erasme Hospital, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ilse Rooman
- Laboratory of Medical & Molecular Oncology (LMMO), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
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20
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Cao J, Zhang Z, Zhou L, Luo M, Li L, Li B, Nice EC, He W, Zheng S, Huang C. Oncofetal reprogramming in tumor development and progression: novel insights into cancer therapy. MedComm (Beijing) 2023; 4:e427. [PMID: 38045829 PMCID: PMC10693315 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.427] [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: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Emerging evidence indicates that cancer cells can mimic characteristics of embryonic development, promoting their development and progression. Cancer cells share features with embryonic development, characterized by robust proliferation and differentiation regulated by signaling pathways such as Wnt, Notch, hedgehog, and Hippo signaling. In certain phase, these cells also mimic embryonic diapause and fertilized egg implantation to evade treatments or immune elimination and promote metastasis. Additionally, the upregulation of ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters, including multidrug resistance protein 1 (MDR1), multidrug resistance-associated protein 1 (MRP1), and breast cancer-resistant protein (BCRP), in drug-resistant cancer cells, analogous to their role in placental development, may facilitate chemotherapy efflux, further resulting in treatment resistance. In this review, we concentrate on the underlying mechanisms that contribute to tumor development and progression from the perspective of embryonic development, encompassing the dysregulation of developmental signaling pathways, the emergence of dormant cancer cells, immune microenvironment remodeling, and the hyperactivation of ABC transporters. Furthermore, we synthesize and emphasize the connections between cancer hallmarks and embryonic development, offering novel insights for the development of innovative cancer treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiangjun Cao
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, and Department of Biotherapy Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Zhe Zhang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Diseasethe First Affiliated HospitalSchool of MedicineZhejiang UniversityZhejiangChina
| | - Li Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases (Ministry of Education)Department of Infectious Diseasesthe Second Affiliated HospitalInstitute for Viral Hepatitis, Chongqing Medical UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Maochao Luo
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, and Department of Biotherapy Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Lei Li
- Department of anorectal surgeryHospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese MedicineChengduChina
| | - Bowen Li
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, and Department of Biotherapy Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Edouard C. Nice
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyMonash UniversityClaytonVICAustralia
| | - Weifeng He
- State Key Laboratory of TraumaBurn and Combined InjuryInstitute of Burn Research, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University)ChongqingChina
| | - Shaojiang Zheng
- Hainan Cancer Medical Center of The First Affiliated Hospital, the Hainan Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Hainan Engineering Research Center for Biological Sample Resources of Major DiseasesHainan Medical UniversityHaikouChina
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Cardiovascular Diseases Research of Hainan Province, Hainan Women and Children's Medical Center, Key Laboratory of Emergency and Trauma of Ministry of EducationHainan Medical UniversityHaikouChina
| | - Canhua Huang
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, and Department of Biotherapy Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduChina
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21
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Krauß L, Schneider C, Hessmann E, Saur D, Schneider G. Epigenetic control of pancreatic cancer metastasis. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2023; 42:1113-1131. [PMID: 37659057 PMCID: PMC10713713 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-023-10132-z] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
Surgical resection, when combined with chemotherapy, has been shown to significantly improve the survival rate of patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). However, this treatment option is only feasible for a fraction of patients, as more than 50% of cases are diagnosed with metastasis. The multifaceted process of metastasis is still not fully understood, but recent data suggest that transcriptional and epigenetic plasticity play significant roles. Interfering with epigenetic reprogramming can potentially control the adaptive processes responsible for metastatic progression and therapy resistance, thereby enhancing treatment responses and preventing recurrence. This review will focus on the relevance of histone-modifying enzymes in pancreatic cancer, specifically on their impact on the metastatic cascade. Additionally, it will also provide a brief update on the current clinical developments in epigenetic therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas Krauß
- Department of General, Visceral and Pediatric Surgery, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075, Göttingen, Germany.
| | - Carolin Schneider
- Department of General, Visceral and Pediatric Surgery, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Hessmann
- Department of Gastroenterology, Gastrointestinal Oncology and Endocrinology, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
- Clinical Research Unit 5002, KFO5002, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
- CCC-N (Comprehensive Cancer Center Lower Saxony), 37075, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Dieter Saur
- Institute for Translational Cancer Research and Experimental Cancer Therapy, Technical University Munich, 81675, Munich, Germany
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Günter Schneider
- Department of General, Visceral and Pediatric Surgery, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075, Göttingen, Germany.
- CCC-N (Comprehensive Cancer Center Lower Saxony), 37075, Göttingen, Germany.
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22
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Matsuoka T, Yashiro M. The Role of the Transforming Growth Factor-β Signaling Pathway in Gastrointestinal Cancers. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1551. [PMID: 37892233 PMCID: PMC10605301 DOI: 10.3390/biom13101551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) has attracted attention as a tumor suppressor because of its potent growth-suppressive effect on epithelial cells. Dysregulation of the TGF-β signaling pathway is considered to be one of the key factors in carcinogenesis, and genetic alterations affecting TGF-β signaling are extraordinarily common in cancers of the gastrointestinal system, such as hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer and pancreatic cancer. Accumulating evidence suggests that TGF-β is produced from various types of cells in the tumor microenvironment and mediates extracellular matrix deposition, tumor angiogenesis, the formation of CAFs, and suppression of the anti-tumor immune reaction. It is also being considered as a factor that promotes the malignant transformation of cancer, particularly the invasion and metastasis of cancer cells, including epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Therefore, elucidating the role of TGF-β signaling in carcinogenesis, cancer invasion, and metastasis will provide novel basic insight for diagnosis and prognosis and the development of new molecularly targeted therapies for gastrointestinal cancers. In this review, we outline an overview of the complex mechanisms and functions of TGF-β signaling. Furthermore, we discuss the therapeutic potentials of targeting the TGF-β signaling pathway for gastrointestinal cancer treatment and discuss the remaining challenges and future perspectives on targeting this pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Masakazu Yashiro
- Molecular Oncology and Therapeutics, Osaka Metropolitan University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka 5458585, Japan;
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23
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Storrs EP, Chati P, Usmani A, Sloan I, Krasnick BA, Babbra R, Harris PK, Sachs CM, Qaium F, Chatterjee D, Wetzel C, Goedegebuure SP, Hollander T, Anthony H, Ponce J, Khaliq AM, Badiyan S, Kim H, Denardo DG, Lang GD, Cosgrove ND, Kushnir VM, Early DS, Masood A, Lim KH, Hawkins WG, Ding L, Fields RC, Das KK, Chaudhuri AA. High-dimensional deconstruction of pancreatic cancer identifies tumor microenvironmental and developmental stemness features that predict survival. NPJ Precis Oncol 2023; 7:105. [PMID: 37857854 PMCID: PMC10587349 DOI: 10.1038/s41698-023-00455-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Numerous cell states are known to comprise the pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) tumor microenvironment (TME). However, the developmental stemness and co-occurrence of these cell states remain poorly defined. Here, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) on a cohort of treatment-naive PDAC time-of-diagnosis endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle biopsy (EUS-FNB) samples (n = 25). We then combined these samples with surgical resection (n = 6) and publicly available samples to increase statistical power (n = 80). Following annotation into 25 distinct cell states, cells were scored for developmental stemness, and a customized version of the Ecotyper tool was used to identify communities of co-occurring cell states in bulk RNA-seq samples (n = 268). We discovered a tumor microenvironmental community comprised of aggressive basal-like malignant cells, tumor-promoting SPP1+ macrophages, and myofibroblastic cancer-associated fibroblasts associated with especially poor prognosis. We also found a developmental stemness continuum with implications for survival that is present in both malignant cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). We further demonstrated that high-dimensional analyses predictive of survival are feasible using standard-of-care, time-of-diagnosis EUS-FNB specimens. In summary, we identified tumor microenvironmental and developmental stemness characteristics from a high-dimensional gene expression analysis of PDAC using human tissue specimens, including time-of-diagnosis EUS-FNB samples. These reveal new connections between tumor microenvironmental composition, CAF and malignant cell stemness, and patient survival that could lead to better upfront risk stratification and more personalized upfront clinical decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik P Storrs
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Division of Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Prathamesh Chati
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Abul Usmani
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Ian Sloan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Bradley A Krasnick
- Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Ramandeep Babbra
- Division of Hematology & Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Peter K Harris
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Chloe M Sachs
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Faridi Qaium
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Deyali Chatterjee
- Division of Laboratory Medicine, Department of Pathology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Chris Wetzel
- Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - S Peter Goedegebuure
- Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Thomas Hollander
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Hephzibah Anthony
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jennifer Ponce
- McDonnell Genome Institute, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Ateeq M Khaliq
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Shahed Badiyan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Hyun Kim
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - David G Denardo
- Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Gabriel D Lang
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Natalie D Cosgrove
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Vladimir M Kushnir
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Dayna S Early
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Ashiq Masood
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Kian-Huat Lim
- Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - William G Hawkins
- Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Li Ding
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Division of Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- McDonnell Genome Institute, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Ryan C Fields
- Division of Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Koushik K Das
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
- Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Aadel A Chaudhuri
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
- Division of Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
- Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA.
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA.
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24
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de Jesus VHF, Mathias-Machado MC, de Farias JPF, Aruquipa MPS, Jácome AA, Peixoto RD. Targeting KRAS in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: The Long Road to Cure. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5015. [PMID: 37894382 PMCID: PMC10605759 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15205015] [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: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains an important cause of cancer-related mortality, and it is expected to play an even bigger part in cancer burden in the years to come. Despite concerted efforts from scientists and physicians, patients have experienced little improvement in survival over the past decades, possibly because of the non-specific nature of the tested treatment modalities. Recently, the discovery of potentially targetable molecular alterations has paved the way for the personalized treatment of PDAC. Indeed, the central piece in the molecular framework of PDAC is starting to be unveiled. KRAS mutations are seen in 90% of PDACs, and multiple studies have demonstrated their pivotal role in pancreatic carcinogenesis. Recent investigations have shed light on the differences in prognosis as well as therapeutic implications of the different KRAS mutations and disentangled the relationship between KRAS and effectors of downstream and parallel signaling pathways. Additionally, the recognition of other mechanisms involving KRAS-mediated pathogenesis, such as KRAS dosing and allelic imbalance, has contributed to broadening the current knowledge regarding this molecular alteration. Finally, KRAS G12C inhibitors have been recently tested in patients with pancreatic cancer with relative success, and inhibitors of KRAS harboring other mutations are under clinical development. These drugs currently represent a true hope for a meaningful leap forward in this dreadful disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Alexandre A. Jácome
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Oncoclínicas, Belo Horizonte 30360-680, Brazil
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25
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Li J, D’Amico S, Kirillov V, Petrenko O, Reich NC. Oncogenic dependency plays a dominant role in the immune response to cancer. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2308635120. [PMID: 37782788 PMCID: PMC10576078 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2308635120] [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: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the deadliest human malignancies. Advanced PDAC is considered incurable. Nearly 90% of pancreatic cancers are caused by oncogenic KRAS mutations. The mechanisms of primary or acquired resistance to KRAS inhibition are currently unknown. Here, we propose that oncogenic dependency, rather than KRAS mutation per se, plays a dominant role in the immune response to cancer, including late-stage PDAC. Classifying tumor samples according to KRAS activity scores allows accurate prediction of tumor immune composition and therapy response. Dual RAS/MAPK pathway blockade combining KRAS and MEK inhibitors is more effective than the selective KRAS inhibitor alone in attenuating MAPK activation and unblocking the influx of T cells into the tumor. Lowering KRAS activity in established tumors promotes immune infiltration, but with a limited antitumor effect, whereas combining KRAS/MEK inhibition with immune checkpoint blockade achieves durable regression in preclinical models. The results are directly applicable to stratifying human PDAC based on KRAS dependency values and immune cell composition to improve therapeutic design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinyu Li
- Department of Pathology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY11794
| | - Stephen D’Amico
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY11794
| | - Varvara Kirillov
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY11794
| | - Oleksi Petrenko
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY11794
| | - Nancy C. Reich
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY11794
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26
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Perelli L, Zhang L, Mangiameli S, Russell AJC, Giannese F, Peng F, Carbone F, Le C, Khan H, Citron F, Soeung M, Lam TNA, Lundgren S, Zhu C, Catania D, Feng N, Gurreri E, Sgambato A, Tortora G, Draetta GF, Tonon G, Futreal A, Giuliani V, Carugo A, Viale A, Heffernan TP, Wang L, Cittaro D, Chen F, Genovese G. Evolutionary fingerprints of EMT in pancreatic cancers. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.18.558231. [PMID: 37786705 PMCID: PMC10541589 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.18.558231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
Mesenchymal plasticity has been extensively described in advanced and metastatic epithelial cancers; however, its functional role in malignant progression, metastatic dissemination and therapy response is controversial. More importantly, the role of epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cell plasticity in tumor heterogeneity, clonal selection and clonal evolution is poorly understood. Functionally, our work clarifies the contribution of EMT to malignant progression and metastasis in pancreatic cancer. We leveraged ad hoc somatic mosaic genome engineering, lineage tracing and ablation technologies and dynamic genetic reporters to trace and ablate tumor-specific lineages along the phenotypic spectrum of epithelial to mesenchymal plasticity. The experimental evidences clarify the essential contribution of mesenchymal lineages to pancreatic cancer evolution and metastatic dissemination. Spatial genomic analysis combined with single cell transcriptomic and epigenomic profiling of epithelial and mesenchymal lineages reveals that EMT promotes with the emergence of chromosomal instability (CIN). Specifically tumor lineages with mesenchymal features display highly conserved patterns of genomic evolution including complex structural genomic rearrangements and chromotriptic events. Genetic ablation of mesenchymal lineages robustly abolished these mutational processes and evolutionary patterns, as confirmed by cross species analysis of pancreatic and other human epithelial cancers. Mechanistically, we discovered that malignant cells with mesenchymal features display increased chromatin accessibility, particularly in the pericentromeric and centromeric regions, which in turn results in delayed mitosis and catastrophic cell division. Therefore, EMT favors the emergence of high-fitness tumor cells, strongly supporting the concept of a cell-state, lineage-restricted patterns of evolution, where cancer cell sub-clonal speciation is propagated to progenies only through restricted functional compartments. Restraining those evolutionary routes through genetic ablation of clones capable of mesenchymal plasticity and extinction of the derived lineages completely abrogates the malignant potential of one of the most aggressive form of human cancer.
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27
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Wang X, Kutschat AP, Aggrey-Fynn J, Hamdan FH, Graham RP, Wixom AQ, Souto Y, Ladigan-Badura S, Yonkus JA, Abdelrahman AM, Alva-Ruiz R, Gaedcke J, Ströbel P, Kosinsky RL, Wegwitz F, Hermann P, Truty MJ, Siveke JT, Hahn SA, Hessmann E, Johnsen SA, Najafova Z. Identification of a ΔNp63-Dependent Basal-Like A Subtype-Specific Transcribed Enhancer Program (B-STEP) in Aggressive Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Mol Cancer Res 2023; 21:881-891. [PMID: 37279184 PMCID: PMC10542885 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-22-0916] [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: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
A major hurdle to the application of precision oncology in pancreatic cancer is the lack of molecular stratification approaches and targeted therapy for defined molecular subtypes. In this work, we sought to gain further insight and identify molecular and epigenetic signatures of the Basal-like A pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) subgroup that can be applied to clinical samples for patient stratification and/or therapy monitoring. We generated and integrated global gene expression and epigenome mapping data from patient-derived xenograft models to identify subtype-specific enhancer regions that were validated in patient-derived samples. In addition, complementary nascent transcription and chromatin topology (HiChIP) analyses revealed a Basal-like A subtype-specific transcribed enhancer program in PDAC characterized by enhancer RNA (eRNA) production that is associated with more frequent chromatin interactions and subtype-specific gene activation. Importantly, we successfully confirmed the validity of eRNA detection as a possible histologic approach for PDAC patient stratification by performing RNA-ISH analyses for subtype-specific eRNAs on pathologic tissue samples. Thus, this study provides proof-of-concept that subtype-specific epigenetic changes relevant for PDAC progression can be detected at a single-cell level in complex, heterogeneous, primary tumor material. IMPLICATIONS Subtype-specific enhancer activity analysis via detection of eRNAs on a single-cell level in patient material can be used as a potential tool for treatment stratification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Wang
- Department of General, Visceral and Pediatric Surgery, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Ana P. Kutschat
- Department of General, Visceral and Pediatric Surgery, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Joana Aggrey-Fynn
- Robert Bosch Center for Tumor Diseases, Stuttgart, Germany
- Gene Regulatory Mechanisms and Molecular Epigenetics Lab, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Feda H. Hamdan
- Gene Regulatory Mechanisms and Molecular Epigenetics Lab, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | - Alexander Q. Wixom
- Gene Regulatory Mechanisms and Molecular Epigenetics Lab, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Yara Souto
- Robert Bosch Center for Tumor Diseases, Stuttgart, Germany
| | | | - Jennifer A. Yonkus
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreas Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Amro M. Abdelrahman
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreas Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Roberto Alva-Ruiz
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreas Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Jochen Gaedcke
- Department of General, Visceral and Pediatric Surgery, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Clinical Research Unit 5002, KFO5002, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Philipp Ströbel
- Clinical Research Unit 5002, KFO5002, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Robyn Laura Kosinsky
- Department of General, Visceral and Pediatric Surgery, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Robert Bosch Center for Tumor Diseases, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Florian Wegwitz
- Department of General, Visceral and Pediatric Surgery, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | | | - Mark J. Truty
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreas Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Jens T. Siveke
- Bridge Institute of Experimental Tumor Therapy, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
- Division of Solid Tumor Translational Oncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner site University Hospital Essen, and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Stephan A. Hahn
- Department of Molecular Gastrointestinal Oncology, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Hessmann
- Clinical Research Unit 5002, KFO5002, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
- Department of Gastroenterology, Gastrointestinal Oncology and Endocrinology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | | | - Zeynab Najafova
- Department of General, Visceral and Pediatric Surgery, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Robert Bosch Center for Tumor Diseases, Stuttgart, Germany
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28
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Takahashi K, Takeda Y, Ono Y, Isomoto H, Mizukami Y. Current status of molecular diagnostic approaches using liquid biopsy. J Gastroenterol 2023; 58:834-847. [PMID: 37470859 PMCID: PMC10423147 DOI: 10.1007/s00535-023-02024-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most aggressive and lethal cancers, and developing an efficient and reliable approach for its early-stage diagnosis is urgently needed. Precancerous lesions of PDAC, such as pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PanIN) and intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMN), arise through multiple steps of driver gene alterations in KRAS, TP53, CDKN2A, SMAD4, or GNAS. Hallmark mutations play a role in tumor initiation and progression, and their detection in bodily fluids is crucial for diagnosis. Recently, liquid biopsy has gained attention as an approach to complement pathological diagnosis, and in addition to mutation signatures in cell-free DNA, cell-free RNA, and extracellular vesicles have been investigated as potential diagnostic and prognostic markers. Integrating such molecular information to revise the diagnostic criteria for pancreatic cancer can enable a better understanding of the pathogenesis underlying inter-patient heterogeneity, such as sensitivity to chemotherapy and disease outcomes. This review discusses the current diagnostic approaches and clinical applications of genetic analysis in pancreatic cancer and diagnostic attempts by liquid biopsy and molecular analyses using pancreatic juice, duodenal fluid, and blood samples. Emerging knowledge in the rapidly advancing liquid biopsy field is promising for molecular profiling and diagnosing pancreatic diseases with significant diversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenji Takahashi
- Division of Metabolism and Biosystemic Science, Gastroenterology, and Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Asahikawa Medical University, 2-1 Midorigaoka Higashi, Asahikawa, Hokkaido, 078-8510, Japan.
| | - Yohei Takeda
- Division of Medicine and Clinical Science, Department of Multidisciplinary Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tottori University, Tottori, Japan
| | - Yusuke Ono
- Division of Metabolism and Biosystemic Science, Gastroenterology, and Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Asahikawa Medical University, 2-1 Midorigaoka Higashi, Asahikawa, Hokkaido, 078-8510, Japan
- Institute of Biomedical Research, Sapporo Higashi Tokushukai Hospital, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Hajime Isomoto
- Division of Medicine and Clinical Science, Department of Multidisciplinary Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tottori University, Tottori, Japan
| | - Yusuke Mizukami
- Division of Metabolism and Biosystemic Science, Gastroenterology, and Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Asahikawa Medical University, 2-1 Midorigaoka Higashi, Asahikawa, Hokkaido, 078-8510, Japan
- Institute of Biomedical Research, Sapporo Higashi Tokushukai Hospital, Sapporo, Japan
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29
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Chen J, Wang Y, Jiang H. Features of metabolism associated molecular patterns in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Cancer Gene Ther 2023; 30:1296-1307. [PMID: 37414853 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-023-00639-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
Exploring pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) metabolic landscape would contribute to further understand PDAC from the metabolic perspective and provide more details for precise treatment design. This study aims to describe metabolic landscape of PDAC. Bioinformatics analysis was used to investigate the differences of genome, transcriptome, and proteome levels of metabolic patterns. Three subtypes (MC1, MC2, and MC3) were identified and characterized as distinct metabolic patterns. MC1, enriched in lipid metabolism and amino acid metabolism signatures, was associated with lower abundance of immune cells and stromal cells, and non-response to immunotherapy. MC2 displayed immune-activated characteristics, minor genome alterations and good response to immunotherapy. MC3 was characterized by high glucose metabolism, high pathological grade, immune-suppressed features, poor prognosis, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition phenotype. A ninety-three gene classifier preformed robust prediction and high accuracy (training set: 93.7%; validation set 1: 85.0%; validation set 2: 83.9%). Using random forest classifier, probabilities of three patterns could be predicted on pancreatic cancer cell lines, which could be used to find vulnerable targets in response to both genetic and drug perturbation. Our study revealed features of PDAC metabolic landscape, which could be expected to provide a reference for prognosis prediction and precise treatment design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junfei Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 200032, Shanghai, China
| | - Yongjie Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hua Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 200032, Shanghai, China.
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30
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Liu X, Liu X, Du Y, Zou D, Tian C, Li Y, Lan X, David CJ, Sun Q, Chen M. Aberrant accumulation of Kras-dependent pervasive transcripts during tumor progression renders cancer cells dependent on PAF1 expression. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112979. [PMID: 37572321 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023] Open
Abstract
KRAS is the most commonly mutated oncogene in human cancer, and mutant KRAS is responsible for over 90% of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), the most lethal cancer. Here, we show that RNA polymerase II-associated factor 1 complex (PAF1C) is specifically required for survival of PDAC but not normal adult pancreatic cells. We show that PAF1C maintains cancer cell genomic stability by restraining overaccumulation of enhancer RNAs (eRNAs) and promoter upstream transcripts (PROMPTs) driven by mutant Kras. Loss of PAF1C leads to cancer-specific lengthening and accumulation of pervasive transcripts on chromatin and concomitant aberrant R-loop formation and DNA damage, which, in turn, trigger cell death. We go on to demonstrate that the global transcriptional hyperactivation driven by Kras signaling during tumorigenesis underlies the specific demand for PAF1C by cancer cells. Our work provides insights into how enhancer transcription hyperactivation causes general transcription factor addiction during tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinhong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, SXMU-Tsinghua Collaborative Innovation Center for Frontier Medicine, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Xiangzheng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, SXMU-Tsinghua Collaborative Innovation Center for Frontier Medicine, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Yingxue Du
- Tsinghua University School of Life Sciences, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Di Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, SXMU-Tsinghua Collaborative Innovation Center for Frontier Medicine, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Chen Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, SXMU-Tsinghua Collaborative Innovation Center for Frontier Medicine, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Yong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, SXMU-Tsinghua Collaborative Innovation Center for Frontier Medicine, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Xun Lan
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, SXMU-Tsinghua Collaborative Innovation Center for Frontier Medicine, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Charles J David
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, SXMU-Tsinghua Collaborative Innovation Center for Frontier Medicine, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Qianwen Sun
- Tsinghua University School of Life Sciences, Beijing 100084, China; Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Mo Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, SXMU-Tsinghua Collaborative Innovation Center for Frontier Medicine, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China.
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31
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Yan M, Liu Q. The nature of cancer. Front Med 2023; 17:796-803. [PMID: 36913173 DOI: 10.1007/s11684-022-0975-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Min Yan
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Quentin Liu
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, 510060, China.
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell, Cancer Center, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116023, China.
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32
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Yoo HB, Moon JW, Kim HR, Lee HS, Miyabayashi K, Park CH, Ge S, Zhang A, Tae YK, Sub Y, Park HW, Gee HY, Notta F, Tuveson DA, Bang S, Kim MY, Roe JS. A TEAD2-Driven Endothelial-Like Program Shapes Basal-Like Differentiation and Metastasis of Pancreatic Cancer. Gastroenterology 2023; 165:133-148.e17. [PMID: 36907523 PMCID: PMC10330865 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2023.02.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA), with its highly metastatic propensity, is one of the most lethal subtypes of pancreatic cancer. Although recent large-scale transcriptomic studies have demonstrated that heterogeneous gene expressions play an essential role in determining molecular phenotypes of PDA, biological cues for and consequences of distinct transcriptional programs remain unclear. METHODS We developed an experimental model that enforces the transition of PDA cells toward a basal-like subtype. We combined epigenome and transcriptome analyses with extensive in vitro and in vivo evaluations of tumorigenicity to demonstrate the validity of basal-like subtype differentiation in association with endothelial-like enhancer landscapes via TEA domain transcription factor 2 (TEAD2). Finally, we used loss-of-function experiments to investigate the importance of TEAD2 in regulating reprogrammed enhancer landscape and metastasis in basal-like PDA cells. RESULTS Aggressive characteristics of the basal-like subtype are faithfully recapitulated in vitro and in vivo, demonstrating the physiological relevance of our model. Further, we showed that basal-like subtype PDA cells acquire a TEAD2-dependent proangiogenic enhancer landscape. Genetic and pharmacologic inhibitions of TEAD2 in basal-like subtype PDA cells impair their proangiogenic phenotypes in vitro and cancer progression in vivo. Last, we identify CD109 as a critical TEAD2 downstream mediator that maintains constitutively activated JAK-STAT signaling in basal-like PDA cells and tumors. CONCLUSIONS Our findings implicate a TEAD2-CD109-JAK/STAT axis in the basal-like differentiated pancreatic cancer cells and as a potential therapeutic vulnerability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye-Been Yoo
- Department of Biochemistry, Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jin Woo Moon
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Hwa-Ryeon Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hee Seung Lee
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Koji Miyabayashi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Chan Hee Park
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sabrina Ge
- Princess Margaret Cancer Center, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Amy Zhang
- Princess Margaret Cancer Center, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; PanCuRx Translational Research Initiative, Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Yoo Keung Tae
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yujin Sub
- Department of Pharmacology, Brain Korea 21 PLUS Project for Medical Sciences, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyun-Woo Park
- Department of Biochemistry, Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Heon Yung Gee
- Department of Pharmacology, Brain Korea 21 PLUS Project for Medical Sciences, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Faiyaz Notta
- Princess Margaret Cancer Center, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; PanCuRx Translational Research Initiative, Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - David A Tuveson
- Lustgarten Foundation Dedicated Laboratory at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, New York
| | - Seungmin Bang
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Mi-Young Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Korea.
| | - Jae-Seok Roe
- Department of Biochemistry, Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea.
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33
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Perelli L, Carbone F, Zhang L, Huang JK, Le C, Khan H, Citron F, Del Poggetto E, Gutschner T, Tomihara H, Soeung M, Minelli R, Srinivasan S, Peoples M, Lam TNA, Lundgren S, Xia R, Zhu C, Mohamed AMT, Zhang J, Sircar K, Sgambato A, Gao J, Jonasch E, Draetta GF, Futreal A, Bakouny Z, Van Allen EM, Choueiri T, Signoretti S, Msaouel P, Litchfield K, Turajlic S, Wang L, Chen YB, Di Natale RG, Hakimi AA, Giuliani V, Heffernan TP, Viale A, Bristow CA, Tannir NM, Carugo A, Genovese G. Interferon signaling promotes tolerance to chromosomal instability during metastatic evolution in renal cancer. NATURE CANCER 2023; 4:984-1000. [PMID: 37365326 PMCID: PMC10368532 DOI: 10.1038/s43018-023-00584-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Molecular routes to metastatic dissemination are critical determinants of aggressive cancers. Through in vivo CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing, we generated somatic mosaic genetically engineered models that faithfully recapitulate metastatic renal tumors. Disruption of 9p21 locus is an evolutionary driver to systemic disease through the rapid acquisition of complex karyotypes in cancer cells. Cross-species analysis revealed that recurrent patterns of copy number variations, including 21q loss and dysregulation of the interferon pathway, are major drivers of metastatic potential. In vitro and in vivo genomic engineering, leveraging loss-of-function studies, along with a model of partial trisomy of chromosome 21q, demonstrated a dosage-dependent effect of the interferon receptor genes cluster as an adaptive mechanism to deleterious chromosomal instability in metastatic progression. This work provides critical knowledge on drivers of renal cell carcinoma progression and defines the primary role of interferon signaling in constraining the propagation of aneuploid clones in cancer evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Perelli
- Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Federica Carbone
- Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Nerviano Medical Sciences, NMS Group Spa, Milan, Italy
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Justin K Huang
- TRACTION platform, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Courtney Le
- Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Hania Khan
- Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Francesca Citron
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Edoardo Del Poggetto
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Tony Gutschner
- Junior Research Group 'RNA Biology and Pathogenesis', Medical Faculty, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Hideo Tomihara
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Melinda Soeung
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Rosalba Minelli
- TRACTION platform, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Sanjana Srinivasan
- TRACTION platform, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Michael Peoples
- TRACTION platform, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Truong Nguyen Anh Lam
- Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Sebastian Lundgren
- Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ruohan Xia
- Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Cihui Zhu
- Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Alaa M T Mohamed
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jianhua Zhang
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Kanishka Sircar
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Alessandro Sgambato
- Dipartimento Universitario di Medicina e Chirurgia Traslazionale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - JianJun Gao
- Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Eric Jonasch
- Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Giulio F Draetta
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Andrew Futreal
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ziad Bakouny
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Eliezer M Van Allen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Toni Choueiri
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sabina Signoretti
- Department of Oncologic Pathology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Pavlos Msaouel
- Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | | | - Linghua Wang
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ying Bei Chen
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Renzo G Di Natale
- Department of Urology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - A Ari Hakimi
- Department of Urology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Virginia Giuliani
- TRACTION platform, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Timothy P Heffernan
- TRACTION platform, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Andrea Viale
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Christopher A Bristow
- TRACTION platform, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Nizar M Tannir
- Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Alessandro Carugo
- TRACTION platform, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
- Department of Biology, IRBM S.p.A., Rome, Italy.
| | - Giannicola Genovese
- Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
- TRACTION platform, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
- David H. Koch Center for Applied Research of Genitourinary Cancers, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
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Laface C, Memeo R, Maselli FM, Santoro AN, Iaia ML, Ambrogio F, Laterza M, Cazzato G, Guarini C, De Santis P, Perrone M, Fedele P. Immunotherapy and Pancreatic Cancer: A Lost Challenge? Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1482. [PMID: 37511856 PMCID: PMC10381818 DOI: 10.3390/life13071482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Although immunotherapy has proved to be a very efficient therapeutic strategy for many types of tumors, the results for pancreatic cancer (PC) have been very poor. Indeed, chemotherapy remains the standard treatment for this tumor in the advanced stage. Clinical data showed that only a small portion of PC patients with high microsatellite instability/mismatch repair deficiency benefit from immunotherapy. However, the low prevalence of these alterations was not sufficient to lead to a practice change in the treatment strategy of this tumor. The main reasons for the poor efficacy of immunotherapy probably lie in the peculiar features of the pancreatic tumor microenvironment in comparison with other malignancies. In addition, the biomarkers usually evaluated to define immunotherapy efficacy in other cancers appear to be useless in PC. This review aims to describe the main features of the pancreatic tumor microenvironment from an immunological point of view and to summarize the current data on immunotherapy efficacy and immune biomarkers in PC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmelo Laface
- Medical Oncology, Dario Camberlingo Hospital, 72021 Francavilla Fontana, Italy
| | - Riccardo Memeo
- Unit of Hepato-Pancreatic-Biliary Surgery, "F. Miulli" General Regional Hospital, 70021 Acquaviva Delle Fonti, Italy
| | | | | | - Maria Laura Iaia
- Medical Oncology, Dario Camberlingo Hospital, 72021 Francavilla Fontana, Italy
| | - Francesca Ambrogio
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Marigia Laterza
- Division of Cardiac Surgery, University of Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Gerardo Cazzato
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, Pathology Section, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Chiara Guarini
- Medical Oncology, Dario Camberlingo Hospital, 72021 Francavilla Fontana, Italy
| | - Pierluigi De Santis
- Medical Oncology, Dario Camberlingo Hospital, 72021 Francavilla Fontana, Italy
| | - Martina Perrone
- Medical Oncology, Dario Camberlingo Hospital, 72021 Francavilla Fontana, Italy
| | - Palma Fedele
- Medical Oncology, Dario Camberlingo Hospital, 72021 Francavilla Fontana, Italy
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Tanaka Y, Kamimura K, Shibata O, Ogawa K, Oda C, Abe H, Ikarashi S, Hayashi K, Yokoo T, Wakai T, Terai S. Similarity of oncogenic protein expression in KRAS G12D gene delivery-based rat pancreatic cancer model to that of human pancreatic cancer. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2023; 673:29-35. [PMID: 37356142 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2023.06.057] [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: 05/13/2023] [Revised: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The development of effective therapies and biomarkers for pancreatic cancer is an unmet clinical need. To address this, we have developed an easy-to-use pancreatic cancer rat animal model via pancreas-targeted hydrodynamic gene delivery of human pancreatic cancer-related genes. Our study aimed to determine the molecular similarity between the pancreatic tumor in the rat model and human pancreatic cancer. METHODS KRASG12D gene-expressing plasmid was delivered to the pancreas of wild type rats via pancreas-targeted hydrodynamic gene delivery as previously reported. Tissue samples were collected at 5 weeks after the first gene delivery. The tumors developed in the rats were assessed for the expression of oncogenic proteins that are involved in human pancreatic cancer development. RESULTS The development of a tumor mimicking pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma was confirmed. The expression levels of Cyclin D1, c-Jun, IL-33, and Zip4 proteins in the tumor were immunohistochemically assessed and the correlation of the proteins was confirmed. The expression pattern showed similarity to that of surgically resected human pancreatic cancer tissues. CONCLUSIONS Our study findings showing a similar pattern of oncogenic protein expression in novel KRASG12D gene-induced rat pancreatic cancer model and human pancreatic cancer will be useful for establishing novel tumor markers and therapeutic options for pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuto Tanaka
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Niigata, 951-8510, Japan
| | - Kenya Kamimura
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Niigata, 951-8510, Japan; Department of General Medicine, Niigata University School of Medicine, Niigata, Niigata, 951-8510, Japan.
| | - Osamu Shibata
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Niigata, 951-8510, Japan
| | - Kohei Ogawa
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Niigata, 951-8510, Japan
| | - Chiyumi Oda
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Niigata, 951-8510, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Abe
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Niigata, 951-8510, Japan
| | - Satoshi Ikarashi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Niigata, 951-8510, Japan
| | - Kazunao Hayashi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Niigata, 951-8510, Japan
| | - Takeshi Yokoo
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Niigata, 951-8510, Japan
| | - Toshifumi Wakai
- Division of Digestive and General Surgery, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Niigata, 951-8510, Japan
| | - Shuji Terai
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Niigata, 951-8510, Japan
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Akhuba L, Tigai Z, Shek D. Major hurdles of immune-checkpoint inhibitors in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. CANCER DRUG RESISTANCE (ALHAMBRA, CALIF.) 2023; 6:327-331. [PMID: 37457121 PMCID: PMC10344717 DOI: 10.20517/cdr.2022.142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
In 2030, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) will become the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality in the world. Unfortunately, neither conventional chemotherapy nor novel immunotherapeutic strategies can provide durable responses and the survival prognosis remains very low. PDAC is notorious for its immune-resistant features and unique genomic landscape facilitating tumor escape from immunosurveillance. Novel immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) failed to show promising efficacy and other multi-modal approaches are currently being validated in multiple clinical trials. In this paper, we provide our opinion on the major mechanisms responsible for PDAC resistance to ICI therapy and provide our view on future strategies which may overcome those barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liia Akhuba
- School of Health Sciences, Western Sydney University, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Zhanna Tigai
- Accreditation Centre, RUDN University, Moscow 117198, Russia
| | - Dmitrii Shek
- Blacktown Clinical School, Western Sydney University, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
- Blacktown Mt Druitt Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
- Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
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Entrialgo-Cadierno R, Cueto-Ureña C, Welch C, Feliu I, Macaya I, Vera L, Morales X, Michelina SV, Scaparone P, Lopez I, Darbo E, Erice O, Vallejo A, Moreno H, Goñi-Salaverri A, Lara-Astiaso D, Halberg N, Cortes-Dominguez I, Guruceaga E, Ambrogio C, Lecanda F, Vicent S. The phospholipid transporter PITPNC1 links KRAS to MYC to prevent autophagy in lung and pancreatic cancer. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:86. [PMID: 37210549 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01788-w] [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: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The discovery of functionally relevant KRAS effectors in lung and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (LUAD and PDAC) may yield novel molecular targets or mechanisms amenable to inhibition strategies. Phospholipids availability has been appreciated as a mechanism to modulate KRAS oncogenic potential. Thus, phospholipid transporters may play a functional role in KRAS-driven oncogenesis. Here, we identified and systematically studied the phospholipid transporter PITPNC1 and its controlled network in LUAD and PDAC. METHODS Genetic modulation of KRAS expression as well as pharmacological inhibition of canonical effectors was completed. PITPNC1 genetic depletion was performed in in vitro and in vivo LUAD and PDAC models. PITPNC1-deficient cells were RNA sequenced, and Gene Ontology and enrichment analyses were applied to the output data. Protein-based biochemical and subcellular localization assays were run to investigate PITPNC1-regulated pathways. A drug repurposing approach was used to predict surrogate PITPNC1 inhibitors that were tested in combination with KRASG12C inhibitors in 2D, 3D, and in vivo models. RESULTS PITPNC1 was increased in human LUAD and PDAC, and associated with poor patients' survival. PITPNC1 was regulated by KRAS through MEK1/2 and JNK1/2. Functional experiments showed PITPNC1 requirement for cell proliferation, cell cycle progression and tumour growth. Furthermore, PITPNC1 overexpression enhanced lung colonization and liver metastasis. PITPNC1 regulated a transcriptional signature which highly overlapped with that of KRAS, and controlled mTOR localization via enhanced MYC protein stability to prevent autophagy. JAK2 inhibitors were predicted as putative PITPNC1 inhibitors with antiproliferative effect and their combination with KRASG12C inhibitors elicited a substantial anti-tumour effect in LUAD and PDAC. CONCLUSIONS Our data highlight the functional and clinical relevance of PITPNC1 in LUAD and PDAC. Moreover, PITPNC1 constitutes a new mechanism linking KRAS to MYC, and controls a druggable transcriptional network for combinatorial treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Entrialgo-Cadierno
- Program in Solid Tumours, University of Navarra, Centre of Applied Medical Research (CIMA), 55 Pio XII Avenue, 31008, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Cristina Cueto-Ureña
- Program in Solid Tumours, University of Navarra, Centre of Applied Medical Research (CIMA), 55 Pio XII Avenue, 31008, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Connor Welch
- Program in Solid Tumours, University of Navarra, Centre of Applied Medical Research (CIMA), 55 Pio XII Avenue, 31008, Pamplona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Iker Feliu
- Program in Solid Tumours, University of Navarra, Centre of Applied Medical Research (CIMA), 55 Pio XII Avenue, 31008, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Irati Macaya
- Program in Solid Tumours, University of Navarra, Centre of Applied Medical Research (CIMA), 55 Pio XII Avenue, 31008, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Laura Vera
- Program in Solid Tumours, University of Navarra, Centre of Applied Medical Research (CIMA), 55 Pio XII Avenue, 31008, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Xabier Morales
- Imaging Unit and Cancer Imaging Laboratory, University of Navarra, CIMA, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Sandra Vietti Michelina
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Centre, University of Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Pietro Scaparone
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Centre, University of Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Ines Lopez
- Program in Solid Tumours, University of Navarra, Centre of Applied Medical Research (CIMA), 55 Pio XII Avenue, 31008, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Elodie Darbo
- University of Bordeaux, INSERM, BRIC, U 1312, F-33000, Bordeaux, France
| | - Oihane Erice
- Program in Solid Tumours, University of Navarra, Centre of Applied Medical Research (CIMA), 55 Pio XII Avenue, 31008, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Adrian Vallejo
- Program in Solid Tumours, University of Navarra, Centre of Applied Medical Research (CIMA), 55 Pio XII Avenue, 31008, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Haritz Moreno
- Program in Solid Tumours, University of Navarra, Centre of Applied Medical Research (CIMA), 55 Pio XII Avenue, 31008, Pamplona, Spain
| | | | - David Lara-Astiaso
- Molecular Therapies Program, University of Navarra, CIMA, Pamplona, Spain
- Wellcome - MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute (CSCI), Cambridge, UK
| | - Nils Halberg
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Ivan Cortes-Dominguez
- Imaging Unit and Cancer Imaging Laboratory, University of Navarra, CIMA, Pamplona, Spain
- Bioinformatics Platform, University of Navarra, CIMA, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Elizabeth Guruceaga
- Bioinformatics Platform, University of Navarra, CIMA, Pamplona, Spain
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Chiara Ambrogio
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Centre, University of Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Fernando Lecanda
- Program in Solid Tumours, University of Navarra, Centre of Applied Medical Research (CIMA), 55 Pio XII Avenue, 31008, Pamplona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Madrid, Spain
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain
- Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Physiology, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Silve Vicent
- Program in Solid Tumours, University of Navarra, Centre of Applied Medical Research (CIMA), 55 Pio XII Avenue, 31008, Pamplona, Spain.
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Madrid, Spain.
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain.
- Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Physiology, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.
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Swietlik JJ, Bärthel S, Falcomatà C, Fink D, Sinha A, Cheng J, Ebner S, Landgraf P, Dieterich DC, Daub H, Saur D, Meissner F. Cell-selective proteomics segregates pancreatic cancer subtypes by extracellular proteins in tumors and circulation. Nat Commun 2023; 14:2642. [PMID: 37156840 PMCID: PMC10167354 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-38171-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell-selective proteomics is a powerful emerging concept to study heterocellular processes in tissues. However, its high potential to identify non-cell-autonomous disease mechanisms and biomarkers has been hindered by low proteome coverage. Here, we address this limitation and devise a comprehensive azidonorleucine labeling, click chemistry enrichment, and mass spectrometry-based proteomics and secretomics strategy to dissect aberrant signals in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Our in-depth co-culture and in vivo analyses cover more than 10,000 cancer cell-derived proteins and reveal systematic differences between molecular PDAC subtypes. Secreted proteins, such as chemokines and EMT-promoting matrisome proteins, associated with distinct macrophage polarization and tumor stromal composition, differentiate classical and mesenchymal PDAC. Intriguingly, more than 1,600 cancer cell-derived proteins including cytokines and pre-metastatic niche formation-associated factors in mouse serum reflect tumor activity in circulation. Our findings highlight how cell-selective proteomics can accelerate the discovery of diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan J Swietlik
- Experimental Systems Immunology, Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Martinsried, Germany
| | - Stefanie Bärthel
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, German Cancer Research Center and German Cancer Consortium, Heidelberg, Germany
- Chair of Translational Cancer Research and Institute of Experimental Cancer Therapy, University Hospital Rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Chiara Falcomatà
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, German Cancer Research Center and German Cancer Consortium, Heidelberg, Germany
- Chair of Translational Cancer Research and Institute of Experimental Cancer Therapy, University Hospital Rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Diana Fink
- Institute of Innate Immunity, Department of Systems Immunology and Proteomics, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Ankit Sinha
- Department of Proteomics and Signal Transduction, Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Martinsried, Germany
| | - Jingyuan Cheng
- Experimental Systems Immunology, Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Martinsried, Germany
| | - Stefan Ebner
- Institute of Innate Immunity, Department of Systems Immunology and Proteomics, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Peter Landgraf
- Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Daniela C Dieterich
- Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
- Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Henrik Daub
- NEOsphere Biotechnologies GmbH, Martinsried, Germany
| | - Dieter Saur
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, German Cancer Research Center and German Cancer Consortium, Heidelberg, Germany.
- Chair of Translational Cancer Research and Institute of Experimental Cancer Therapy, University Hospital Rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.
| | - Felix Meissner
- Experimental Systems Immunology, Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Martinsried, Germany.
- Institute of Innate Immunity, Department of Systems Immunology and Proteomics, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.
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Park SJ, Park JY, Shin K, Hong TH, Lee M, Kim Y, Kim IH. Clinical significance of serum-derived exosomal PD-L1 expression in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer. BMC Cancer 2023; 23:389. [PMID: 37127565 PMCID: PMC10150468 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-023-10811-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Interactions between the programmed cell death receptor 1 (PD-1) and its ligand (PD-L1) lead to immune evasion in various tumors and are associated with poor prognosis in patients with pancreatic cancer; however, the roles of PD-L1-containing exosomes in pancreatic cancer is poorly understood. Here, we investigated the correlation between circulating exosomal PD-L1 (exoPD-L1) and PD-L1 expression in tumor tissue, and survival outcomes in patients with advanced PDAC. METHODS Exosomes were derived from pre-treatment serum samples isolated using ExoQuick kit from 77 patients with advanced pancreatic cancer. Exosomal PD-L1 (exoPD-L1) was detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and matched tumor tissues PD-L1 expression were evaluated by PD-L1 immunohistochemistry (22C3) assay, described with combined positive score. Cutoff value of exoPD-L1 for survival was assessed with receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Kaplan-Meier analysis was performed to obtain median overall survival (OS), and hazard ratio was estimated using a stratified Cox regression model. RESULTS The median exoPD-L1 serum concentration was 0.16 pg/mg, with undetected levels in seven patients. ExoPD-L1 levels were significantly higher in patients with systemic disease than in those with locally advanced disease (p = 0.023). There was a significantly higher proportion of elevated exoPD-L1 levels in patients with positive PD-L1 expression compared to patients with negative PD-L1 expression (p = 0.001). Patients were classified into groups with low and high exoPD-L1 levels using ROC curve-derived cutoffs (0.165 pg/mg; area under the curve, 0.617; p = 0.078). At a median follow-up of 8.39 months, the median OS was 13.2 (95% CI, 8.17-18.3) and 6.36 months (95% CI, 3.27-9.45) in the low and high exoPD-L1 groups, respectively (HR = 0.61; 95% CI, 0.35-1.04; p = 0.059). ExoPD-L1 levels did not affect the proportion of CD8+CD69+ effector cytotoxic T cells in either of the groups (p = 0.166). CONCLUSIONS The serum-derived exoPD-L1 levels were higher in metastatic pancreatic cancer than locally advanced disease. Collectively, higher serum exoPD-L1 levels in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer suggested worse survival outcomes and may have clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Se Jun Park
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, 222 Banpo-daero, Secho-gu, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ju Yeon Park
- Cancer Research Institute, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kabsoo Shin
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, 222 Banpo-daero, Secho-gu, Seoul, Korea
| | - Tae Ho Hong
- Department of General Surgery, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - MyungAh Lee
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, 222 Banpo-daero, Secho-gu, Seoul, Korea
| | - Younghoon Kim
- Department of Pathology, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - In-Ho Kim
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, 222 Banpo-daero, Secho-gu, Seoul, Korea.
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40
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Mortoglou M, Miralles F, Mould RR, Sengupta D, Uysal-Onganer P. Inhibiting CDK4/6 in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma via microRNA-21. Eur J Cell Biol 2023; 102:151318. [PMID: 37105116 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2023.151318] [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: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most aggressive malignancies, with a 5-year survival rate of 5-10 %. The high mortality rate is due to the asymptomatic progression of clinical features in metastatic stages of the disease, which renders standard therapeutic options futile. PDAC is characterised by alterations in several genes that drive carcinogenesis and limit therapeutic response. The two most common genetic aberrations in PDAC are the mutational activation of KRAS and loss of the tumour suppressor CDK inhibitor 2A (CDKN2A), which culminate the activation of the cyclin-dependent kinase 4 and 6 (CDK4/6), that promote G1 cell cycle progression. Therapeutic strategies focusing on the CDK4/6 inhibitors such as palbociclib (PD-0332991) may potentially improve outcomes in this malignancy. MicroRNAs (miRs/miRNAs) are small endogenous non-coding RNA molecules associated with cellular proliferation, invasion, apoptosis, and cell cycle. Primarily, miR-21 promotes cell proliferation and a higher proportion of PDAC cells in the S phase, while knockdown of miR-21 has been linked to cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase and inhibition of cell proliferation. In this study, using a CRISPR/Cas9 loss-of-function screen, we individually silenced the expression of miR-21 in two PDAC cell lines and in combination with PD-0332991 treatment, we examined the synergetic mechanisms of CDK4/6 inhibitors and miR-21 knockouts (KOs) on cell survival and death. This combination reduced cell proliferation, cell viability, increased apoptosis and G1 arrest in vitro. We further analysed the mitochondrial respiration and glycolysis of PDAC cells; then assessed the protein content of these cells and revealed numerous Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways associated with PD-0332991 treatment and miR-21 knocking out. Our results demonstrate that combined targeting of CDK4/6 and silencing of miR-21 represents a novel therapeutic strategy in PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Mortoglou
- Cancer Mechanisms and Biomarkers Research Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Westminster, W1W 6UW London, UK
| | - Francesc Miralles
- Centre of Biomedical Education/Molecular and Clinical Sciences, Cell Biology Research Centre, St. George's, University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London SW17 0RE, UK
| | - Rhys Richard Mould
- Research Centre for Optimal Health, School of Life Sciences, University of Westminster, W1W 6UW London, UK
| | - Dipankar Sengupta
- Health Data Sciences Research Group, Research Centre for Optimal Health, School of Life Sciences, University of Westminster, W1W 6UW London, UK
| | - Pinar Uysal-Onganer
- Cancer Mechanisms and Biomarkers Research Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Westminster, W1W 6UW London, UK.
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Ruze R, Song J, Yin X, Chen Y, Xu R, Wang C, Zhao Y. Mechanisms of obesity- and diabetes mellitus-related pancreatic carcinogenesis: a comprehensive and systematic review. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:139. [PMID: 36964133 PMCID: PMC10039087 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01376-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Research on obesity- and diabetes mellitus (DM)-related carcinogenesis has expanded exponentially since these two diseases were recognized as important risk factors for cancers. The growing interest in this area is prominently actuated by the increasing obesity and DM prevalence, which is partially responsible for the slight but constant increase in pancreatic cancer (PC) occurrence. PC is a highly lethal malignancy characterized by its insidious symptoms, delayed diagnosis, and devastating prognosis. The intricate process of obesity and DM promoting pancreatic carcinogenesis involves their local impact on the pancreas and concurrent whole-body systemic changes that are suitable for cancer initiation. The main mechanisms involved in this process include the excessive accumulation of various nutrients and metabolites promoting carcinogenesis directly while also aggravating mutagenic and carcinogenic metabolic disorders by affecting multiple pathways. Detrimental alterations in gastrointestinal and sex hormone levels and microbiome dysfunction further compromise immunometabolic regulation and contribute to the establishment of an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) for carcinogenesis, which can be exacerbated by several crucial pathophysiological processes and TME components, such as autophagy, endoplasmic reticulum stress, oxidative stress, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and exosome secretion. This review provides a comprehensive and critical analysis of the immunometabolic mechanisms of obesity- and DM-related pancreatic carcinogenesis and dissects how metabolic disorders impair anticancer immunity and influence pathophysiological processes to favor cancer initiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rexiati Ruze
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100730, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumors, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 100023, Beijing, China
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 9 Dongdan Santiao, Beijing, China
| | - Jianlu Song
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100730, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumors, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 100023, Beijing, China
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 9 Dongdan Santiao, Beijing, China
| | - Xinpeng Yin
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100730, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumors, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 100023, Beijing, China
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 9 Dongdan Santiao, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100730, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumors, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 100023, Beijing, China
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 9 Dongdan Santiao, Beijing, China
| | - Ruiyuan Xu
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100730, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumors, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 100023, Beijing, China
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 9 Dongdan Santiao, Beijing, China
| | - Chengcheng Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100730, Beijing, China.
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumors, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 100023, Beijing, China.
| | - Yupei Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100730, Beijing, China.
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumors, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 100023, Beijing, China.
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Bärthel S, Falcomatà C, Rad R, Theis FJ, Saur D. Single-cell profiling to explore pancreatic cancer heterogeneity, plasticity and response to therapy. NATURE CANCER 2023; 4:454-467. [PMID: 36959420 DOI: 10.1038/s43018-023-00526-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly lethal cancer entity characterized by a heterogeneous genetic landscape and an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Recent advances in high-resolution single-cell sequencing and spatial transcriptomics technologies have enabled an in-depth characterization of both malignant and host cell types and increased our understanding of the heterogeneity and plasticity of PDAC in the steady state and under therapeutic perturbation. In this Review we outline single-cell analyses in PDAC, discuss their implications on our understanding of the disease and present future perspectives of multimodal approaches to elucidate its biology and response to therapy at the single-cell level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Bärthel
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, German Cancer Research Center and German Cancer Consortium, Heidelberg, Germany
- Institute of Experimental Cancer Therapy, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Chiara Falcomatà
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, German Cancer Research Center and German Cancer Consortium, Heidelberg, Germany
- Institute of Experimental Cancer Therapy, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
- Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Roland Rad
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
- Institute of Molecular Oncology and Functional Genomics, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium Partner Site Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Fabian J Theis
- Institute of Computational Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München-German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
- School of Computation, Information and Technology (CIT), Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Dieter Saur
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, German Cancer Research Center and German Cancer Consortium, Heidelberg, Germany.
- Institute of Experimental Cancer Therapy, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany.
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany.
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Chiho M, Ono Y, Hayashi A, Takahashi K, Taniue K, Kakisaka R, Mori M, Ishii T, Sato H, Okada T, Kawabata H, Goto T, Tamamura N, Omori Y, Takahashi K, Katanuma A, Karasaki H, Liss AS, Mizukami Y. Multiplex digital PCR assay to detect multiple KRAS and GNAS mutations associated with pancreatic carcinogenesis from minimal specimen amounts. J Mol Diagn 2023; 25:367-377. [PMID: 36965665 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmoldx.2023.02.007] [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: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Digital PCR (dPCR) allows for highly sensitive quantification of low-frequency mutations and facilitates early detection of cancer. However, low throughput targeting of single hotspots in dPCR hinders variant specification when multiple probes are used. Here we developed a dPCR method to simultaneously identify major variants related to pancreatic carcinogenesis. Using a 2-D plot of droplet fluorescence under the optimized concentration of two fluorescent probe pools, we determined the absolute quantification of different KRAS and GNAS variants. Successful detection of the multiple driver mutations was verified in 24 surgically resected tumor samples from 19 patients and 22 FNA samples from patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Precise quantification of the variant allele frequency was optimized using template DNA at a concentration as low as 1-10 ng. Furthermore, amplicons targeting multiple hotspots were successfully enriched with fewer false positives using high-fidelity polymerase, allowing for the detection of various KRAS and GNAS mutations with high probability in small cell/tissue specimens. Using this target enrichment, mutations at a rate of 90% in small residual tissues, such as the FNA needle flush and microscopic lesions in resected specimens, have successfully been identified. The proposed method allows for low-cost and accurate detection of driver mutations to diagnose cancers, even with minimal tissue collection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maeda Chiho
- Institute of Biomedical Research, Sapporo Higashi Tokushukai Hospital, Sapporo, 065-0033, Japan
| | - Yusuke Ono
- Institute of Biomedical Research, Sapporo Higashi Tokushukai Hospital, Sapporo, 065-0033, Japan; Department of Medicine, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, 078-8510, Japan.
| | - Akihiro Hayashi
- Department of Medicine, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, 078-8510, Japan
| | - Kenji Takahashi
- Department of Medicine, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, 078-8510, Japan
| | - Kenzui Taniue
- Department of Medicine, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, 078-8510, Japan; Isotope Science Center, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-0032, Japan
| | - Rika Kakisaka
- Institute of Biomedical Research, Sapporo Higashi Tokushukai Hospital, Sapporo, 065-0033, Japan
| | - Miyuki Mori
- Institute of Biomedical Research, Sapporo Higashi Tokushukai Hospital, Sapporo, 065-0033, Japan
| | - Takahiro Ishii
- Institute of Biomedical Research, Sapporo Higashi Tokushukai Hospital, Sapporo, 065-0033, Japan
| | - Hiroki Sato
- Department of Medicine, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, 078-8510, Japan; Division of Gastrointestinal and Oncologic Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114
| | - Tetsuhiro Okada
- Department of Medicine, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, 078-8510, Japan
| | - Hidemasa Kawabata
- Department of Medicine, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, 078-8510, Japan
| | - Takuma Goto
- Department of Medicine, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, 078-8510, Japan
| | - Nobue Tamamura
- Department of Medicine, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, 078-8510, Japan
| | - Yuko Omori
- Institute of Biomedical Research, Sapporo Higashi Tokushukai Hospital, Sapporo, 065-0033, Japan; Department of Investigative Pathology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Kuniyuki Takahashi
- Center for Gastroenterology, Teine Keijinkai Hospital, Sapporo, 006-0811, Japan
| | - Akio Katanuma
- Center for Gastroenterology, Teine Keijinkai Hospital, Sapporo, 006-0811, Japan
| | - Hidenori Karasaki
- Institute of Biomedical Research, Sapporo Higashi Tokushukai Hospital, Sapporo, 065-0033, Japan
| | - Andrew Scott Liss
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Oncologic Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114
| | - Yusuke Mizukami
- Institute of Biomedical Research, Sapporo Higashi Tokushukai Hospital, Sapporo, 065-0033, Japan; Department of Medicine, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, 078-8510, Japan
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Maurer HC, Curiel-Garcia A, Holmstrom S, Laise P, Palermo CF, Sastra SA, Andren A, Li Z, LeLarge T, Sagalovskiy I, Ross DR, Rosario V, Lu K, Ferraiuolo E, Spinosa N, Wong W, Shaw K, Chabot JA, Genkinger J, Hibshoosh H, Manji GA, Iuga A, Schmid RM, Badgley MA, Johnson K, Califano A, Lyssiotis C, Olive KP. Ras-dependent activation of BMAL2 regulates hypoxic metabolism in pancreatic cancer. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.03.19.533333. [PMID: 36993718 PMCID: PMC10055246 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.19.533333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
To identify novel drivers of malignancy in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), we employed regulatory network analysis, which calculates the activity of transcription factors and other regulatory proteins based on the integrated expression of their positive and negative target genes. We generated a regulatory network for the malignant epithelial cells of human PDAC using gene expression data from a set of 197 laser capture microdissected human PDAC samples and 45 low-grade precursors, for which we had matched histopathological, clinical, and epidemiological annotation. We then identified the most highly activated and repressed regulatory proteins (e.g. master regulators or MRs) associated with four malignancy phenotypes: precursors vs. PDAC (initiation), low-grade vs. high grade histopathology (progression), survival post resection, and association with KRAS activity. Integrating across these phenotypes, the top MR of PDAC malignancy was found to be BMAL2, a member of the PAS family of bHLH transcription factors. Although the canonical function of BMAL2 is linked to the circadian rhythm protein CLOCK, annotation of BMAL2 target genes highlighted a potential role in hypoxia response. We previously demonstrated that PDAC is hypovascularized and hypoperfused, and here show that PDAC from the genetically engineered KPC model exists in a state of extreme hypoxia, with a partial oxygen pressure of <1mmHg. Given the close homology of BMAL2 to HIF1β (ARNT) and its potential to heterodimerize with HIF1A and HIF2A, we investigated whether BMAL2 plays a role in the hypoxic response of PDAC. Indeed, BMAL2 controlled numerous hypoxia response genes and could be inhibited following treatment with multiple RAF, MEK, and ERK inhibitors, validating its association with RAS activity. Knockout of BMAL2 in four human PDAC cell lines led to defects in growth and invasion in the setting of hypoxia. Strikingly, BMAL2 null cells failed to induce glycolysis upon exposure to severe hypoxia and this was associated with a loss of expression of the glycolytic enzyme LDHA. Moreover, HIF1A was no longer stabilized under hypoxia in BMAL2 knockout cells. By contrast, HIF2A was hyper-stabilized under hypoxia, indicating a dysregulation of hypoxia metabolism in response to BMAL2 loss. We conclude that BMAL2 is a master regulator of hypoxic metabolism in PDAC, serving as a molecular switch between the disparate metabolic roles of HIF1A- and HIF2A-dependent hypoxia responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Carlo Maurer
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Alvaro Curiel-Garcia
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY
- Department of Medicine, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | | | - Pasquale Laise
- Department of Systems Biology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY
- Darwin Therapeutics, New York, NY
| | - Carmine F Palermo
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY
- Department of Medicine, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Steven A Sastra
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY
- Department of Medicine, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Anthony Andren
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Zhang Li
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Tessa LeLarge
- Department of Surgery, Dijklander Ziekenhuis Location Hoorn, Hoorn, the Netherlands
| | - Irina Sagalovskiy
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY
- Department of Medicine, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Daniel R Ross
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY
- Department of Medicine, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Vilma Rosario
- Department of Surgery, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Kate Lu
- University of New Hampshire, Manchester, NH
| | | | | | - Winston Wong
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY
| | - Kaitlin Shaw
- Columbia University Division of GI & Endocrine Surgery, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - John A Chabot
- Department of Surgery, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Jeanine Genkinger
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY
- Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY
| | - Hanina Hibshoosh
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology and HICCC, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Gulam A Manji
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY
- Department of Medicine, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Alina Iuga
- University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Roland M Schmid
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Michael A Badgley
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY
- Department of Medicine, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | | | - Andrea Califano
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY
- Department of Systems Biology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY
- Darwin Therapeutics, New York, NY
| | - Costas Lyssiotis
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Kenneth P Olive
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY
- Department of Medicine, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY
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Njouendou AJ, Szarvas T, Tiofack AAZ, Kenfack RN, Tonouo PD, Ananga SN, Bell EHMD, Simo G, Hoheisel JD, Siveke JT, Lueong SS. SOX2 dosage sustains tumor-promoting inflammation to drive disease aggressiveness by modulating the FOSL2/IL6 axis. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:52. [PMID: 36932385 PMCID: PMC10022277 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01734-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inflammation is undoubtedly a hallmark of cancer development. Its maintenance within tumors and the consequences on disease aggressiveness are insufficiently understood. METHODS Data of 27 tumor entities (about 5000 samples) were downloaded from the TCGA and GEO databases. Multi-omic analyses were performed on these and in-house data to investigate molecular determinants of tumor aggressiveness. Using molecular loss-of-function data, the mechanistic underpinnings of inflammation-induced tumor aggressiveness were addressed. Patient specimens and in vivo disease models were subsequently used to validate findings. RESULTS There was significant association between somatic copy number alterations (sCNAs) and tumor aggressiveness. SOX2 amplification was the most important feature among novel and known aggressiveness-associated alterations. Mechanistically, SOX2 regulates a group of genes, in particular the AP1 transcription factor FOSL2, to sustain pro-inflammatory signaling pathways, such as IL6-JAK-STAT3, TNFA and IL17. FOSL2 was found overexpressed in tumor sections of specifically aggressive cancers. In consequence, prolonged inflammation induces immunosuppression and activates cytidine deamination and thus DNA damage as evidenced by related mutational signatures in aggressive tumors. The DNA damage affects tumor suppressor genes such as TP53, which is the most mutated gene in aggressive tumors compared to less aggressive ones (38% vs 14%), thereby releasing cell cycle control. These results were confirmed by analyzing tissues from various tumor types and in vivo studies. CONCLUSION Our data demonstrate the implication of SOX2 in promoting DNA damage and genome instability by sustaining inflammation via FOSL2/IL6, resulting in tumor aggressiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdel Jelil Njouendou
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Buea, Buea, South West Region, Cameroon
- Phytopharmacy and Drug Discovery Section, The Cameroon Consortium for Translational Cancer Research (CCOTCARE), Douala, Cameroon
| | - Tibor Szarvas
- Department of Urology, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, 45122, Essen, Germany
- Department of Urology, Semmelweis University, 1082, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Arnol Auvaker Zebaze Tiofack
- Molecular Parasitology and Entomology Unit (MPEU), Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Dschang, Dschang, West Region, Cameroon
- Early Detection and Biomarker Section, The Cameroon Consortium for Translational Cancer Research (CCOTCARE), Douala, Cameroon
| | - Rovaldo Nguims Kenfack
- Early Detection and Biomarker Section, The Cameroon Consortium for Translational Cancer Research (CCOTCARE), Douala, Cameroon
- Research Unit of Microbiology and Antimicrobial Substances (RUMAS), Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Dschang, Dschang, West Region, Cameroon
| | - Pamela Derliche Tonouo
- Early Detection and Biomarker Section, The Cameroon Consortium for Translational Cancer Research (CCOTCARE), Douala, Cameroon
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Douala, Douala, Littoral Region, Cameroon
- Department of Medical Oncology, Douala General Hospital, Douala, Littoral Region, Cameroon
| | - Sidonie Noa Ananga
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Douala, Douala, Littoral Region, Cameroon
- Department of Medical Oncology, Douala General Hospital, Douala, Littoral Region, Cameroon
- Epidemiology and Clinical Trial Section, The Cameroon Consortium for Translational Cancer Research (CCOTCARE), Douala, Cameroon
| | - Esther H M Dina Bell
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Douala, Douala, Littoral Region, Cameroon
- Department of Medical Oncology, Douala General Hospital, Douala, Littoral Region, Cameroon
- Epidemiology and Clinical Trial Section, The Cameroon Consortium for Translational Cancer Research (CCOTCARE), Douala, Cameroon
| | - Gustave Simo
- Molecular Parasitology and Entomology Unit (MPEU), Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Dschang, Dschang, West Region, Cameroon
- Directorate of Scientific Affairs, The Cameroon Consortium for Translational Cancer Research (CCOTCARE), Douala, Cameroon
| | - Jörg D Hoheisel
- Division of Functional Genome Analysis, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Im Neuenheimer Feld 580, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jens T Siveke
- Bridge Institute for Experimental Cancer Therapy, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, Hufeland Str. 55, 45147, Essen, Germany
- Division for Solid Tumor Translational Oncology German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ)West German Cancer Center, The German Consortium for Translational Cancer Research (DKTK), Essen/Düsseldorf Partner, Site University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Smiths S Lueong
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Buea, Buea, South West Region, Cameroon.
- Molecular Parasitology and Entomology Unit (MPEU), Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Dschang, Dschang, West Region, Cameroon.
- Early Detection and Biomarker Section, The Cameroon Consortium for Translational Cancer Research (CCOTCARE), Douala, Cameroon.
- Bridge Institute for Experimental Cancer Therapy, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, Hufeland Str. 55, 45147, Essen, Germany.
- Division for Solid Tumor Translational Oncology German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ)West German Cancer Center, The German Consortium for Translational Cancer Research (DKTK), Essen/Düsseldorf Partner, Site University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany.
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Fischer A, Lersch R, de Andrade Krätzig N, Strong A, Friedrich MJ, Weber J, Engleitner T, Öllinger R, Yen HY, Kohlhofer U, Gonzalez-Menendez I, Sailer D, Kogan L, Lahnalampi M, Laukkanen S, Kaltenbacher T, Klement C, Rezaei M, Ammon T, Montero JJ, Schneider G, Mayerle J, Heikenwälder M, Schmidt-Supprian M, Quintanilla-Martinez L, Steiger K, Liu P, Cadiñanos J, Vassiliou GS, Saur D, Lohi O, Heinäniemi M, Conte N, Bradley A, Rad L, Rad R. In vivo interrogation of regulatory genomes reveals extensive quasi-insufficiency in cancer evolution. CELL GENOMICS 2023; 3:100276. [PMID: 36950387 PMCID: PMC10025556 DOI: 10.1016/j.xgen.2023.100276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023]
Abstract
In contrast to mono- or biallelic loss of tumor-suppressor function, effects of discrete gene dysregulations, as caused by non-coding (epi)genome alterations, are poorly understood. Here, by perturbing the regulatory genome in mice, we uncover pervasive roles of subtle gene expression variation in cancer evolution. Genome-wide screens characterizing 1,450 tumors revealed that such quasi-insufficiency is extensive across entities and displays diverse context dependencies, such as distinct cell-of-origin associations in T-ALL subtypes. We compile catalogs of non-coding regions linked to quasi-insufficiency, show their enrichment with human cancer risk variants, and provide functional insights by engineering regulatory alterations in mice. As such, kilo-/megabase deletions in a Bcl11b-linked non-coding region triggered aggressive malignancies, with allele-specific tumor spectra reflecting gradual gene dysregulations through modular and cell-type-specific enhancer activities. Our study constitutes a first survey toward a systems-level understanding of quasi-insufficiency in cancer and gives multifaceted insights into tumor evolution and the tissue-specific effects of non-coding mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Fischer
- Institute of Molecular Oncology and Functional Genomics, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Robert Lersch
- Institute of Molecular Oncology and Functional Genomics, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Niklas de Andrade Krätzig
- Institute of Molecular Oncology and Functional Genomics, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Alexander Strong
- The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK
| | - Mathias J. Friedrich
- Institute of Molecular Oncology and Functional Genomics, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
- Department of Medicine II, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Julia Weber
- Institute of Molecular Oncology and Functional Genomics, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Thomas Engleitner
- Institute of Molecular Oncology and Functional Genomics, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Rupert Öllinger
- Institute of Molecular Oncology and Functional Genomics, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Hsi-Yu Yen
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
- Comparative Experimental Pathology, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Ursula Kohlhofer
- Institute of Pathology and Comprehensive Cancer Center, Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Irene Gonzalez-Menendez
- Institute of Pathology and Comprehensive Cancer Center, Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - David Sailer
- Institute of Molecular Oncology and Functional Genomics, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Liz Kogan
- Institute of Molecular Oncology and Functional Genomics, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Mari Lahnalampi
- Institute of Biomedicine, School of Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Saara Laukkanen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere Center for Child, Adolescent and Maternal Health Research and Tays Cancer Center, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Thorsten Kaltenbacher
- Institute of Molecular Oncology and Functional Genomics, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Christine Klement
- Institute of Molecular Oncology and Functional Genomics, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Majdaddin Rezaei
- Institute of Molecular Oncology and Functional Genomics, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Tim Ammon
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Juan J. Montero
- Institute of Molecular Oncology and Functional Genomics, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Günter Schneider
- Department of Medicine II, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
- Department of General, Visceral and Pediatric Surgery, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Julia Mayerle
- Medical Department II, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Mathias Heikenwälder
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Division of Chronic Inflammation and Cancer, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Marc Schmidt-Supprian
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Leticia Quintanilla-Martinez
- Institute of Pathology and Comprehensive Cancer Center, Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Katja Steiger
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
- Comparative Experimental Pathology, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Pentao Liu
- The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK
- Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Consortium, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Juan Cadiñanos
- Instituto de Medicina Oncológica y Molecular de Asturias (IMOMA), 33193 Oviedo, Spain
| | - George S. Vassiliou
- The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK
- Wellcome Trust-MRC Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0XY, UK
- Department of Haematology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Trust, Cambridge CB2 0PT, UK
| | - Dieter Saur
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
- Department of Medicine II, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Therapy, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Olli Lohi
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere Center for Child, Adolescent and Maternal Health Research and Tays Cancer Center, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Merja Heinäniemi
- Institute of Biomedicine, School of Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Nathalie Conte
- The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK
| | - Allan Bradley
- The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK
- Cambridge Institute of Therapeutic Immunology & Infectious Disease (CITIID), University of Cambridge, Puddicombe Way, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK
| | - Lena Rad
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Therapy, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Roland Rad
- Institute of Molecular Oncology and Functional Genomics, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Medicine II, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675 Munich, Germany
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Paul MC, Schneeweis C, Falcomatà C, Shan C, Rossmeisl D, Koutsouli S, Klement C, Zukowska M, Widholz SA, Jesinghaus M, Heuermann KK, Engleitner T, Seidler B, Sleiman K, Steiger K, Tschurtschenthaler M, Walter B, Weidemann SA, Pietsch R, Schnieke A, Schmid RM, Robles MS, Andrieux G, Boerries M, Rad R, Schneider G, Saur D. Non-canonical functions of SNAIL drive context-specific cancer progression. Nat Commun 2023; 14:1201. [PMID: 36882420 PMCID: PMC9992512 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-36505-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
SNAIL is a key transcriptional regulator in embryonic development and cancer. Its effects in physiology and disease are believed to be linked to its role as a master regulator of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Here, we report EMT-independent oncogenic SNAIL functions in cancer. Using genetic models, we systematically interrogated SNAIL effects in various oncogenic backgrounds and tissue types. SNAIL-related phenotypes displayed remarkable tissue- and genetic context-dependencies, ranging from protective effects as observed in KRAS- or WNT-driven intestinal cancers, to dramatic acceleration of tumorigenesis, as shown in KRAS-induced pancreatic cancer. Unexpectedly, SNAIL-driven oncogenesis was not associated with E-cadherin downregulation or induction of an overt EMT program. Instead, we show that SNAIL induces bypass of senescence and cell cycle progression through p16INK4A-independent inactivation of the Retinoblastoma (RB)-restriction checkpoint. Collectively, our work identifies non-canonical EMT-independent functions of SNAIL and unravel its complex context-dependent role in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariel C Paul
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.,Chair of Translational Cancer Research and Institute of Experimental Cancer Therapy, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany
| | - Christian Schneeweis
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.,Chair of Translational Cancer Research and Institute of Experimental Cancer Therapy, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany.,Department of Internal Medicine II, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany.,Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany
| | - Chiara Falcomatà
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.,Chair of Translational Cancer Research and Institute of Experimental Cancer Therapy, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany.,Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany
| | - Chuan Shan
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.,Chair of Translational Cancer Research and Institute of Experimental Cancer Therapy, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany
| | - Daniel Rossmeisl
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.,Chair of Translational Cancer Research and Institute of Experimental Cancer Therapy, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany.,Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany
| | - Stella Koutsouli
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, Goethe Str. 31, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | - Christine Klement
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany.,Institute of Molecular Oncology and Functional Genomics, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675, Munich, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Partner Site Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Magdalena Zukowska
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.,Chair of Translational Cancer Research and Institute of Experimental Cancer Therapy, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany.,Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany
| | - Sebastian A Widholz
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany.,Institute of Molecular Oncology and Functional Genomics, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675, Munich, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Partner Site Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Moritz Jesinghaus
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.,Chair of Translational Cancer Research and Institute of Experimental Cancer Therapy, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany.,Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany.,Institute of Pathology, Technische Universität München, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany.,Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Marburg, Baldingerstraße, 35043, Marburg, Germany
| | - Konstanze K Heuermann
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.,Chair of Translational Cancer Research and Institute of Experimental Cancer Therapy, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany.,Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany
| | - Thomas Engleitner
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany.,Institute of Molecular Oncology and Functional Genomics, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675, Munich, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Partner Site Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Barbara Seidler
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.,Chair of Translational Cancer Research and Institute of Experimental Cancer Therapy, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany.,Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany
| | - Katia Sleiman
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.,Chair of Translational Cancer Research and Institute of Experimental Cancer Therapy, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany.,Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany
| | - Katja Steiger
- Institute of Pathology, Technische Universität München, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany
| | - Markus Tschurtschenthaler
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.,Chair of Translational Cancer Research and Institute of Experimental Cancer Therapy, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany.,Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany
| | - Benjamin Walter
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany
| | - Sören A Weidemann
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.,Chair of Translational Cancer Research and Institute of Experimental Cancer Therapy, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany.,Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany
| | - Regina Pietsch
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.,Chair of Translational Cancer Research and Institute of Experimental Cancer Therapy, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany.,Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany
| | - Angelika Schnieke
- Livestock Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Technische Universität München, Liesel-Beckmann Str. 1, 85354, Freising, Germany
| | - Roland M Schmid
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany
| | - Maria S Robles
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, Goethe Str. 31, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | - Geoffroy Andrieux
- Institute of Medical Bioinformatics and Systems Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79110, Freiburg, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Partner Site Freiburg, 79106, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Melanie Boerries
- Institute of Medical Bioinformatics and Systems Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79110, Freiburg, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Partner Site Freiburg, 79106, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Roland Rad
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany.,Institute of Molecular Oncology and Functional Genomics, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, 81675, Munich, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Partner Site Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Günter Schneider
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.,Chair of Translational Cancer Research and Institute of Experimental Cancer Therapy, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany.,Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany.,University Medical Center Göttingen, Department of General, Visceral and Pediatric Surgery, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Dieter Saur
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany. .,Chair of Translational Cancer Research and Institute of Experimental Cancer Therapy, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany. .,Department of Internal Medicine II, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany. .,Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany.
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48
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Ras protein abundance correlates with Ras isoform mutation patterns in cancer. Oncogene 2023; 42:1224-1232. [PMID: 36864243 PMCID: PMC10079525 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-023-02638-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023]
Abstract
Activating mutations of Ras genes are often observed in cancer. The protein products of the three Ras genes are almost identical. However, for reasons that remain unclear, KRAS is far more frequently mutated than the other Ras isoforms in cancer and RASopathies. We have quantified HRAS, NRAS, KRAS4A and KRAS4B protein abundance across a large panel of cell lines and healthy tissues. We observe consistent patterns of KRAS > NRAS»HRAS protein expression in cells that correlate with the rank order of Ras mutation frequencies in cancer. Our data provide support for the model of a sweet-spot of Ras dosage mediating isoform-specific contributions to cancer and development. We suggest that in most cases, being the most abundant Ras isoform correlates with occupying the sweet-spot and that HRAS and NRAS expression is usually insufficient to promote oncogenesis when mutated. However, our results challenge the notion that rare codons mechanistically underpin the predominance of KRAS mutant cancers. Finally, direct measurement of mutant versus wildtype KRAS protein abundance revealed a frequent imbalance that may suggest additional non-gene duplication mechanisms for optimizing oncogenic Ras dosage.
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49
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Wang H, Guo M, Wei H, Chen Y. Targeting p53 pathways: mechanisms, structures, and advances in therapy. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:92. [PMID: 36859359 PMCID: PMC9977964 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01347-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 69.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The TP53 tumor suppressor is the most frequently altered gene in human cancers, and has been a major focus of oncology research. The p53 protein is a transcription factor that can activate the expression of multiple target genes and plays critical roles in regulating cell cycle, apoptosis, and genomic stability, and is widely regarded as the "guardian of the genome". Accumulating evidence has shown that p53 also regulates cell metabolism, ferroptosis, tumor microenvironment, autophagy and so on, all of which contribute to tumor suppression. Mutations in TP53 not only impair its tumor suppressor function, but also confer oncogenic properties to p53 mutants. Since p53 is mutated and inactivated in most malignant tumors, it has been a very attractive target for developing new anti-cancer drugs. However, until recently, p53 was considered an "undruggable" target and little progress has been made with p53-targeted therapies. Here, we provide a systematic review of the diverse molecular mechanisms of the p53 signaling pathway and how TP53 mutations impact tumor progression. We also discuss key structural features of the p53 protein and its inactivation by oncogenic mutations. In addition, we review the efforts that have been made in p53-targeted therapies, and discuss the challenges that have been encountered in clinical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haolan Wang
- Department of Oncology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, Laboratory of Structural Biology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China
| | - Ming Guo
- Department of Oncology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, Laboratory of Structural Biology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China
| | - Hudie Wei
- Department of Oncology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, Laboratory of Structural Biology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China.
| | - Yongheng Chen
- Department of Oncology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, Laboratory of Structural Biology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China.
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50
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LncRNA LINC01094 Promotes Cells Proliferation and Metastasis through the PTEN/AKT Pathway by Targeting AZGP1 in Gastric Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15041261. [PMID: 36831602 PMCID: PMC9954187 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15041261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) were recently reported to play an essential role in multiple cancer types. Herein, through next-generation sequencing, we screened metastasis-driving molecules by using tissues from early-stage gastric cancer (GC) patients with lymph node metastasis, and we identified a lncRNA LINC01094, which was associated with the metastasis of GC. According to the clinical data from the TCGA, GSE15459, and GSE62254 cohorts, the high expression of LINC01094 was associated with an unfavorable prognosis. Moreover, 106 clinical GC and paired normal samples were collected, and the qRT-PCR results showed that the high expression of LINC01094 was associated with high T and N stages and a poor prognosis. We found that LINC01094 promotes the proliferation and metastasis of GC in vitro and in vivo. AZGP1 was found as the protein-binding partner of LINC01094 by using RNA pulldown and RNA-binding protein immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays. LINC01094 antagonizes the function of AZGP1, downregulates the expression of PTEN, and further upregulates the AKT pathway. Collectively, our results suggested that LINC01094 might predict the prognosis of GC patients and become the therapy target for GC.
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