1
|
Jing J, Wu Z, Wang J, Luo G, Lin H, Fan Y, Zhou C. Hedgehog signaling in tissue homeostasis, cancers, and targeted therapies. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:315. [PMID: 37596267 PMCID: PMC10439210 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01559-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The past decade has seen significant advances in our understanding of Hedgehog (HH) signaling pathway in various biological events. HH signaling pathway exerts its biological effects through a complex signaling cascade involved with primary cilium. HH signaling pathway has important functions in embryonic development and tissue homeostasis. It plays a central role in the regulation of the proliferation and differentiation of adult stem cells. Importantly, it has become increasingly clear that HH signaling pathway is associated with increased cancer prevalence, malignant progression, poor prognosis and even increased mortality. Understanding the integrative nature of HH signaling pathway has opened up the potential for new therapeutic targets for cancer. A variety of drugs have been developed, including small molecule inhibitors, natural compounds, and long non-coding RNA (LncRNA), some of which are approved for clinical use. This review outlines recent discoveries of HH signaling in tissue homeostasis and cancer and discusses how these advances are paving the way for the development of new biologically based therapies for cancer. Furthermore, we address status quo and limitations of targeted therapies of HH signaling pathway. Insights from this review will help readers understand the function of HH signaling in homeostasis and cancer, as well as opportunities and challenges of therapeutic targets for cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junjun Jing
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Zhuoxuan Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Jiahe Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Guowen Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Hengyi Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yi Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
- Department of Cariology and Endodontics, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Chenchen Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Chen J, Baxi K, Lipsitt AE, Hensch NR, Wang L, Sreenivas P, Modi P, Zhao XR, Baudin A, Robledo DG, Bandyopadhyay A, Sugalski A, Challa AK, Kurmashev D, Gilbert AR, Tomlinson GE, Houghton P, Chen Y, Hayes MN, Chen EY, Libich DS, Ignatius MS. Defining function of wild-type and three patient-specific TP53 mutations in a zebrafish model of embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma. eLife 2023; 12:e68221. [PMID: 37266578 PMCID: PMC10322150 DOI: 10.7554/elife.68221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
In embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma (ERMS) and generally in sarcomas, the role of wild-type and loss- or gain-of-function TP53 mutations remains largely undefined. Eliminating mutant or restoring wild-type p53 is challenging; nevertheless, understanding p53 variant effects on tumorigenesis remains central to realizing better treatment outcomes. In ERMS, >70% of patients retain wild-type TP53, yet mutations when present are associated with worse prognosis. Employing a kRASG12D-driven ERMS tumor model and tp53 null (tp53-/-) zebrafish, we define wild-type and patient-specific TP53 mutant effects on tumorigenesis. We demonstrate that tp53 is a major suppressor of tumorigenesis, where tp53 loss expands tumor initiation from <35% to >97% of animals. Characterizing three patient-specific alleles reveals that TP53C176F partially retains wild-type p53 apoptotic activity that can be exploited, whereas TP53P153Δ and TP53Y220C encode two structurally related proteins with gain-of-function effects that predispose to head musculature ERMS. TP53P153Δ unexpectedly also predisposes to hedgehog-expressing medulloblastomas in the kRASG12D-driven ERMS-model.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiangfei Chen
- Institute of Environmental Safety and Human Health, Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhouChina
- Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute (GCCRI), UT Health Sciences CenterSan AntonioUnited States
| | - Kunal Baxi
- Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute (GCCRI), UT Health Sciences CenterSan AntonioUnited States
- Department of Molecular Medicine, UT Health Sciences CenterSan AntonioUnited States
| | - Amanda E Lipsitt
- Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute (GCCRI), UT Health Sciences CenterSan AntonioUnited States
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology Oncology, UT Health Sciences CenterSan AntonioUnited States
| | - Nicole Rae Hensch
- Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute (GCCRI), UT Health Sciences CenterSan AntonioUnited States
- Department of Molecular Medicine, UT Health Sciences CenterSan AntonioUnited States
| | - Long Wang
- Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute (GCCRI), UT Health Sciences CenterSan AntonioUnited States
- Department of Molecular Medicine, UT Health Sciences CenterSan AntonioUnited States
| | - Prethish Sreenivas
- Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute (GCCRI), UT Health Sciences CenterSan AntonioUnited States
- Department of Molecular Medicine, UT Health Sciences CenterSan AntonioUnited States
| | - Paulomi Modi
- Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute (GCCRI), UT Health Sciences CenterSan AntonioUnited States
- Department of Molecular Medicine, UT Health Sciences CenterSan AntonioUnited States
| | - Xiang Ru Zhao
- Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute (GCCRI), UT Health Sciences CenterSan AntonioUnited States
- Department of Molecular Medicine, UT Health Sciences CenterSan AntonioUnited States
| | - Antoine Baudin
- Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute (GCCRI), UT Health Sciences CenterSan AntonioUnited States
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, UT Health Sciences CenterSan AntonioUnited States
| | - Daniel G Robledo
- Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute (GCCRI), UT Health Sciences CenterSan AntonioUnited States
| | - Abhik Bandyopadhyay
- Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute (GCCRI), UT Health Sciences CenterSan AntonioUnited States
| | - Aaron Sugalski
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology Oncology, UT Health Sciences CenterSan AntonioUnited States
| | - Anil K Challa
- Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute (GCCRI), UT Health Sciences CenterSan AntonioUnited States
- Department of Biology, University of Alabama at BirminghamBirminghamUnited States
| | - Dias Kurmashev
- Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute (GCCRI), UT Health Sciences CenterSan AntonioUnited States
| | - Andrea R Gilbert
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, UT Health Sciences CenterSan AntonioUnited States
| | - Gail E Tomlinson
- Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute (GCCRI), UT Health Sciences CenterSan AntonioUnited States
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology Oncology, UT Health Sciences CenterSan AntonioUnited States
| | - Peter Houghton
- Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute (GCCRI), UT Health Sciences CenterSan AntonioUnited States
- Department of Molecular Medicine, UT Health Sciences CenterSan AntonioUnited States
| | - Yidong Chen
- Department of Population Health Sciences, UT Health Sciences CenterSan AntonioUnited States
| | - Madeline N Hayes
- Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Hospital for Sick ChildrenTorontoCanada
| | - Eleanor Y Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of WashingtonSeattleUnited States
| | - David S Libich
- Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute (GCCRI), UT Health Sciences CenterSan AntonioUnited States
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, UT Health Sciences CenterSan AntonioUnited States
| | - Myron S Ignatius
- Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute (GCCRI), UT Health Sciences CenterSan AntonioUnited States
- Department of Molecular Medicine, UT Health Sciences CenterSan AntonioUnited States
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Zarzosa P, Garcia-Gilabert L, Hladun R, Guillén G, Gallo-Oller G, Pons G, Sansa-Girona J, Segura MF, Sánchez de Toledo J, Moreno L, Gallego S, Roma J. Targeting the Hedgehog Pathway in Rhabdomyosarcoma. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15030727. [PMID: 36765685 PMCID: PMC9913695 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15030727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Aberrant activation of the Hedgehog (Hh) signalling pathway is known to play an oncogenic role in a wide range of cancers; in the particular case of rhabdomyosarcoma, this pathway has been demonstrated to be an important player for both oncogenesis and cancer progression. In this review, after a brief description of the pathway and the characteristics of its molecular components, we describe, in detail, the main activation mechanisms that have been found in cancer, including ligand-dependent, ligand-independent and non-canonical activation. In this context, the most studied inhibitors, i.e., SMO inhibitors, have shown encouraging results for the treatment of basal cell carcinoma and medulloblastoma, both tumour types often associated with mutations that lead to the activation of the pathway. Conversely, SMO inhibitors have not fulfilled expectations in tumours-among them sarcomas-mostly associated with ligand-dependent Hh pathway activation. Despite the controversy existing regarding the results obtained with SMO inhibitors in these types of tumours, several compounds have been (or are currently being) evaluated in sarcoma patients. Finally, we discuss some of the reasons that could explain why, in some cases, encouraging preclinical data turned into disappointing results in the clinical setting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Zarzosa
- Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders, Vall d’Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lia Garcia-Gilabert
- Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders, Vall d’Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Raquel Hladun
- Pediatric Oncology and Hematology Department, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gabriela Guillén
- Pediatric Surgery Department, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gabriel Gallo-Oller
- Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders, Vall d’Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Guillem Pons
- Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders, Vall d’Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Julia Sansa-Girona
- Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders, Vall d’Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miguel F. Segura
- Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders, Vall d’Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josep Sánchez de Toledo
- Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders, Vall d’Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
- Pediatric Oncology and Hematology Department, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lucas Moreno
- Pediatric Oncology and Hematology Department, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Soledad Gallego
- Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders, Vall d’Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
- Pediatric Oncology and Hematology Department, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
- Correspondence: (S.G.); (J.R.)
| | - Josep Roma
- Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders, Vall d’Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
- Correspondence: (S.G.); (J.R.)
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Chen D, Kang X, Li Z, Chen L, Ma Q, Fan P. Hedgehog/GLI1 signaling pathway regulates the resistance to cisplatin in human osteosarcoma. J Cancer 2021; 12:6676-6684. [PMID: 34659557 PMCID: PMC8518013 DOI: 10.7150/jca.61591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the role and mechanism of Hedgehog/GLI1 signaling pathway in regulating the resistance to cisplatin in osteosarcoma (OS). Materials and methods: Immunohistochemistry, western blotting and qRT-PCR assay were performed to analyze and compare the expression of GLI1 in OS tumor tissue and normal bone tissue as well as in cisplatin sensitive and resistant cell lines (SOSP-9607 and SOSP-9607/CR). Meanwhile, the biological role of GLI1 in OS was investigated by using down-regulated expression of GLI1 and functional assays, including CCK-8, colony formation assay, flow cytometry, and wound healing assay. Moreover, the relationship between GLI1 and γ-H2AX (DNA damage protein) in cells treated with GLI1 siRNA and cisplatin was examined using western blot analysis. In addition, GANT61, a inhibitor of Hedgehog pathway was used in xenograft tumor model to further verify the effect and mechanism of GLI1 on cisplatin resistance in OS. Results: We showed that GLI1 expression was up-regulated in OS patients and cisplatin-resistant cells. Silencing GLI1 significantly restored the sensitivity of OS to cisplatin, reduced proliferation, migration and cloning capacity of cisplatin sensitive and resistant cells, and increased the apoptosis rate in vitro. Furthermore, combined administration of GANT61 and cisplatin markedly inhibitted tumor growth in the mouse model. Mechanitic studies found that γ-H2AX is involved in the cisplatin resistance, and blockade of Hedgehog/GLI1 pathway increased the expression of γ-H2AX. Conclusion: Abnormal activation of Hedgehog-GLI1 pathway can regulate the expression of γ-H2AX, thus affecting DNA damage and repair functions, and promoting acquired cisplatin resistance of OS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daosen Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou 325027, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Xiaodiao Kang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou 325027, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Zhenxing Li
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou 325027, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Liang Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou 325027, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Qiong Ma
- Orthopedic Oncology Institute, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Pei Fan
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou 325027, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou 325027, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Genetic Characterization, Current Model Systems and Prognostic Stratification in PAX Fusion-Negative vs. PAX Fusion-Positive Rhabdomyosarcoma. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12101500. [PMID: 34680895 PMCID: PMC8535289 DOI: 10.3390/genes12101500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 09/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is the most common soft tissue sarcoma in children and adolescents and accounts for approximately 2% of soft tissue sarcomas in adults. It is subcategorized into distinct subtypes based on histological features and fusion status (PAX-FOXO1/VGLL2/NCOA2). Despite advances in our understanding of the pathobiological and molecular landscape of RMS, the prognosis of these tumors has not significantly improved in recent years. Developing a better understanding of genetic abnormalities and risk stratification beyond the fusion status are crucial to developing better therapeutic strategies. Herein, we aim to highlight the genetic pathways/abnormalities involved, specifically in fusion-negative RMS, assess the currently available model systems to study RMS pathogenesis, and discuss available prognostic factors as well as their importance for risk stratification to achieve optimal therapeutic management.
Collapse
|
6
|
Generali M, Satheesha S, Bode PK, Wanner D, Schäfer BW, Casanova EA. High Frequency of Tumor Propagating Cells in Fusion-Positive Rhabdomyosarcoma. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12091373. [PMID: 34573355 PMCID: PMC8469567 DOI: 10.3390/genes12091373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is the most common soft tissue sarcoma in children. Fusion-positive RMS (FPRMS), expressing the PAX3/7-FOXO1, has a worse prognosis compared to the more common fusion-negative RMS (FNRMS). Although several studies reported hierarchical organization for FNRMS with the identification of cancer stem cells, the cellular organization of FPRMS is not yet clear. In this study we investigated the expression of key stem cell markers, developed a sphere assay, and investigated the seven most common FPRMS cell lines for subpopulations of tumor propagating cancer stem-like cells, also called cancer stem cells (CSCs). Moreover, loss- and gain-of-functions of the stem cell genes SOX2, OCT4, and NANOG were investigated in the same cells. Single-cell clonal analysis was performed in vitro as well as in vivo. We found that no stable CSC subpopulation could be enriched in FPRMS. Unlike depletion of PAX3-FOXO1, neither overexpression nor siRNA-mediated downregulation of SOX2, OCT4, and NANOG affected physiology of RMS cells. Every single subclone-derived cell clone initiated tumor growth in mice, despite displaying considerable heterogeneity in gene expression. FPRMS appears to contain a high frequency of tumor propagating stem-like cells, which could explain their higher propensity for metastasis and relapse. Their dependency on PAX3-FOXO1 activity reinforces the importance of the fusion protein as the key therapeutic target.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Generali
- Center for Therapy Development and Good Manufacturing Practice, Institute for Regenerative Medicine (IREM), University of Zurich, 8044 Zurich, Switzerland; (M.G.); (D.W.)
| | - Sampoorna Satheesha
- Department of Oncology and Children’s Research Center, University Children’s Hospital Zurich, 8032 Zurich, Switzerland;
| | - Peter K. Bode
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Pathology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland;
| | - Debora Wanner
- Center for Therapy Development and Good Manufacturing Practice, Institute for Regenerative Medicine (IREM), University of Zurich, 8044 Zurich, Switzerland; (M.G.); (D.W.)
| | - Beat W. Schäfer
- Department of Oncology and Children’s Research Center, University Children’s Hospital Zurich, 8032 Zurich, Switzerland;
- Correspondence: (B.W.S.); (E.A.C.); Tel.: +41-44-266-7553 (B.W.S.); +41-44-255-1976 (E.A.C.)
| | - Elisa A. Casanova
- Division of Trauma Surgery, Center for Clinical Research, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland
- Correspondence: (B.W.S.); (E.A.C.); Tel.: +41-44-266-7553 (B.W.S.); +41-44-255-1976 (E.A.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Toward a Personalized Therapy in Soft-Tissue Sarcomas: State of the Art and Future Directions. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13102359. [PMID: 34068344 PMCID: PMC8153286 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13102359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Soft-tissue sarcomas are rare tumors characterized by pathogenetic, morphological, and clinical intrinsic variability. Median survival of patients with advanced tumors are usually chemo- and radio-resistant, and standard treatments yield low response rates and poor survival results. The identification of defined genomic alterations in sarcoma could represent the premise for targeted treatments. Summarizing, soft-tissue sarcomas can be differentiated into histotypes with reciprocal chromosomal translocations, with defined oncogenic mutations and complex karyotypes. If the latter are improbably approached with targeted treatments, many suggest that innovative therapies interfering with the identified fusion oncoproteins and altered pathways could be potentially resolutive. In most cases, the characteristic genetic signature is discouragingly defined as "undruggable", which poses a challenge for the development of novel pharmacological approaches. In this review, a summary of genomic alterations recognized in most common soft-tissue sarcoma is reported together with current and future therapeutic opportunities.
Collapse
|
8
|
Slemmons KK, Deel MD, Lin YT, Oristian KM, Kuprasertkul N, Genadry KC, Chen PH, Chi JTA, Linardic CM. A method to culture human alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma cell lines as rhabdospheres demonstrates an enrichment in stemness and Notch signaling. Biol Open 2021; 10:bio.050211. [PMID: 33372065 PMCID: PMC7888706 DOI: 10.1242/bio.050211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of three-dimensional cell culture techniques has allowed cancer researchers to study the stemness properties of cancer cells in in vitro culture. However, a method to grow PAX3-FOXO1 fusion-positive rhabdomyosarcoma (FP-RMS), an aggressive soft tissue sarcoma of childhood, has to date not been reported, hampering efforts to identify the dysregulated signaling pathways that underlie FP-RMS stemness. Here, we first examine the expression of canonical stem cell markers in human RMS tumors and cell lines. We then describe a method to grow FP-RMS cell lines as rhabdospheres and demonstrate that these spheres are enriched in expression of canonical stemness factors as well as Notch signaling components. Specifically, FP-RMS rhabdospheres have increased expression of SOX2, POU5F1 (OCT4), and NANOG, and several receptors and transcriptional regulators in the Notch signaling pathway. FP-RMS rhabdospheres also exhibit functional stemness characteristics including multipotency, increased tumorigenicity in vivo, and chemoresistance. This method provides a novel practical tool to support research into FP-RMS stemness and chemoresistance signaling mechanisms. Summary: Here we report on a method to culture human PAX3-FOXO1 fusion-positive rhabdomyosarcoma cells in three dimensions, and use these rhabdospheres as a novel tool to study their stemness and chemoresistance signaling mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine K Slemmons
- Departments of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Michael D Deel
- Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Yi-Tzu Lin
- Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Kristianne M Oristian
- Departments of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina.,Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | | | - Katia C Genadry
- Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Po-Han Chen
- Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Jen-Tsan Ashley Chi
- Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Corinne M Linardic
- Departments of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina .,Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Lu Y, Zhu Y, Deng S, Chen Y, Li W, Sun J, Xu X. Targeting the Sonic Hedgehog Pathway to Suppress the Expression of the Cancer Stem Cell (CSC)-Related Transcription Factors and CSC-Driven Thyroid Tumor Growth. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13030418. [PMID: 33499351 PMCID: PMC7866109 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13030418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Poorly differentiated and anaplastic thyroid cancers respond poorly to surgery, radiation, and hormone therapy. Cancer stem cells play an important role in tumor growth, drug resistance, and recurrence. This study focuses on how the sonic hedgehog (Shh) pathway maintains thyroid cancer stem cell self-renewal and whether it can be targeted for anticancer therapy. The authors report that the Shh pathway regulates the expression of BMI1 and SOX2, two genes involved in stem cell self-renewal, and that targeting the Shh pathway has little effect on thyroid tumor xenografts but can inhibit the growth of tumor xenografts derived from thyroid cancer stem cells. This study advances the knowledge on how thyroid cancer stem cells regenerate and highlights the potential therapeutic values of targeting the Shh pathway. Abstract The sonic hedgehog (Shh) pathway plays important roles in tumorigenesis, tumor growth, drug resistance, and metastasis. We and others have reported earlier that this pathway is highly activated in thyroid cancer. However, its role in thyroid cancer stem cell (CSC) self-renewal and tumor development remains incompletely understood. B lymphoma Mo-MLV insertion region 1 homolog (BMI1) and SRY-Box Transcription Factor 2 (SOX2) are two CSC-related transcription factors that have been implicated in promoting CSC self-renewal. The objective of our current investigation was to determine the role of the Shh pathway in regulating BMI1 and SOX2 expression in thyroid cancer and promoting thyroid tumor growth and development. Here we report that inhibition of the Shh pathway by Gli1 siRNA or by cyclopamine and GANT61 reduced BMI1 and SOX2 expression in SW1736 and KAT-18 cells, two anaplastic thyroid cancer cell lines. The opposite results were obtained in cells overexpressing Gli1 or its downstream transcription factor Snail. The Shh pathway regulated SOX2 and BMI1 expression at a transcriptional and post-transcriptional level, respectively. GANT61 treatment suppressed the growth of SW1736 CSC-derived tumor xenografts but did not significantly inhibit the growth of tumors grown from bulk tumor cells. Clinicopathological analyses of thyroid tumor specimens by immunohistochemical (IHC) staining revealed that BMI1 and SOX2 were highly expressed in thyroid cancer and correlated with Gli1 expression. Our study provides evidence that activation of the Shh pathway leads to increased BMI1 and SOX2 expression in thyroid cancer and promotes thyroid CSC-driven tumor initiation. Targeting the Shh pathway may have therapeutic value for treating thyroid cancer and preventing recurrence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yurong Lu
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China; (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (S.D.); (Y.C.); (J.S.)
| | - Yiwen Zhu
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China; (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (S.D.); (Y.C.); (J.S.)
| | - Shihan Deng
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China; (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (S.D.); (Y.C.); (J.S.)
| | - Yuhuang Chen
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China; (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (S.D.); (Y.C.); (J.S.)
| | - Wei Li
- College of Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China;
| | - Jing Sun
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China; (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (S.D.); (Y.C.); (J.S.)
| | - Xiulong Xu
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China; (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (S.D.); (Y.C.); (J.S.)
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonosis, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-514-8797-7382; Fax: +86-514-8797-7046
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Establishment and Characterization of a Sclerosing Spindle Cell Rhabdomyosarcoma Cell Line with a Complex Genomic Profile. Cells 2020; 9:cells9122668. [PMID: 33322555 PMCID: PMC7763666 DOI: 10.3390/cells9122668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Revised: 11/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Sclerosing spindle cell rhabdomyosarcoma (SSRMS) is a rare rhabdomyosarcomas (RMS) subtype. Especially cases bearing a myogenic differentiation 1 (MYOD1) mutation are characterized by a high recurrence and metastasis rate, often leading to a fatal outcome. SSRMS cell lines are valuable in vitro models for studying disease mechanisms and for the preclinical evaluation of new therapeutic approaches. In this study, a cell line established from a primary SSRMS tumor of a 24-year-old female after multimodal chemotherapeutic pretreatment has been characterized in detail, including immunohistochemistry, growth characteristics, cytogenetic analysis, mutation analysis, evaluation of stem cell marker expression, differentiation potential, and tumorigenicity in mice. The cell line which was designated SRH exhibited a complex genomic profile, including several translocations and deletions. Array-comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) revealed an overall predominating loss of gene loci. The mesenchymal tumor origin was underlined by the expression of mesenchymal markers and potential to undergo adipogenic and osteogenic differentiation. Despite myogenic marker expression, terminal myogenic differentiation was inhibited, which might be elicited by the MYOD1 hotspot mutation. In vivo tumorigenicity could be confirmed after subcutaneous injection into NOD/SCID/γcnull mice. Summarized, the SRH cell line is the first adult SSRMS cell line available for preclinical research on this rare RMS subtype.
Collapse
|
11
|
Pal A, Leung JY, Ang GCK, Rao VK, Pignata L, Lim HJ, Hebrard M, Chang KT, Lee VK, Guccione E, Taneja R. EHMT2 epigenetically suppresses Wnt signaling and is a potential target in embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma. eLife 2020; 9:57683. [PMID: 33252038 PMCID: PMC7728445 DOI: 10.7554/elife.57683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Wnt signaling is downregulated in embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma (ERMS) and contributes to the block of differentiation. Epigenetic mechanisms leading to its suppression are unknown and could pave the way toward novel therapeutic modalities. We demonstrate that EHMT2 suppresses canonical Wnt signaling by activating expression of the Wnt antagonist DKK1. Inhibition of EHMT2 expression or activity in human ERMS cell lines reduced DKK1 expression and elevated canonical Wnt signaling resulting in myogenic differentiation in vitro and in mouse xenograft models in vivo. Mechanistically, EHMT2 impacted Sp1 and p300 enrichment at the DKK1 promoter. The reduced tumor growth upon EHMT2 deficiency was reversed by recombinant DKK1 or LGK974, which also inhibits Wnt signaling. Consistently, among 13 drugs targeting chromatin modifiers, EHMT2 inhibitors were highly effective in reducing ERMS cell viability. Our study demonstrates that ERMS cells are vulnerable to EHMT2 inhibitors and suggest that targeting the EHMT2-DKK1-β-catenin node holds promise for differentiation therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ananya Pal
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jia Yu Leung
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Gareth Chin Khye Ang
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Vinay Kumar Rao
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Luca Pignata
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore.,Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Huey Jin Lim
- Department of Pathology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Maxime Hebrard
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Kenneth Te Chang
- Department of Pathology, KK Women and Children's Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Victor Km Lee
- Department of Pathology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ernesto Guccione
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore.,Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Reshma Taneja
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is an aggressive childhood mesenchymal tumor with two major molecular and histopathologic subtypes: fusion-positive (FP)RMS, characterized by the PAX3-FOXO1 fusion protein and largely of alveolar histology, and fusion-negative (FN)RMS, the majority of which exhibit embryonal tumor histology. Metastatic disease continues to be associated with poor overall survival despite intensive treatment strategies. Studies on RMS biology have provided some insight into autocrine as well as paracrine signaling pathways that contribute to invasion and metastatic propensity. Such pathways include those driven by the PAX3-FOXO1 fusion oncoprotein in FPRMS and signaling pathways such as IGF/RAS/MEK/ERK, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, cMET, FGFR4, and PDGFR in both FP and FNRMS. In addition, specific cytoskeletal proteins, G protein coupled receptors, Hedgehog, Notch, Wnt, Hippo, and p53 pathways play a role, as do specific microRNA. Paracrine factors, including secreted proteins and RMS-derived exosomes that carry cargo of protein and miRNA, have also recently emerged as potentially important players in RMS biology. This review summarizes the known factors contributing to RMS invasion and metastasis and their implications on identifying targets for treatment and a better understanding of metastatic RMS.
Collapse
|
13
|
Cancer Stem Cells in Soft-Tissue Sarcomas. Cells 2020; 9:cells9061449. [PMID: 32532153 PMCID: PMC7349510 DOI: 10.3390/cells9061449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Revised: 06/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Soft tissue sarcomas (STS) are a rare group of mesenchymal solid tumors with heterogeneous genetic profiles and clinical features. Systemic chemotherapy is the backbone treatment for advanced STS; however, STS frequently acquire resistance to standard therapies, which highlights the need to improve treatments and identify novel therapeutic targets. Increases in the knowledge of the molecular pathways that drive sarcomas have brought to light different molecular alterations that cause tumor initiation and progression. These findings have triggered a breakthrough of targeted therapies that are being assessed in clinical trials. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) exhibit mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) features and represent a subpopulation of tumor cells that play an important role in tumor progression, chemotherapy resistance, recurrence and metastasis. In fact, CSCs phenotypes have been identified in sarcomas, allied to drug resistance and tumorigenesis. Herein, we will review the published evidence of CSCs in STS, discussing the molecular characteristic of CSCs, the commonly used isolation techniques and the new possibilities of targeting CSCs as a way to improve STS treatment and consequently patient outcome.
Collapse
|
14
|
Boedicker C, Hussong M, Grimm C, Dolgikh N, Meister MT, Enßle JC, Wanior M, Knapp S, Schweiger MR, Fulda S. Co-inhibition of BET proteins and PI3Kα triggers mitochondrial apoptosis in rhabdomyosarcoma cells. Oncogene 2020; 39:3837-3852. [PMID: 32161312 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-020-1229-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2019] [Revised: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Remodeling transcription by targeting bromodomain and extraterminal (BET) proteins has emerged as promising anticancer strategy. Here, we identify a novel synergistic interaction of the BET inhibitor JQ1 with the PI3Kα-specific inhibitor BYL719 to trigger mitochondrial apoptosis and to suppress tumor growth in models of rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS). RNA-Seq revealed that JQ1/BYL719 co-treatment shifts the overall balance of BCL-2 family gene expression towards apoptosis and upregulates expression of BMF, BCL2L11 (BIM), and PMAIP1 (NOXA) while downregulating BCL2L1 (BCL-xL). These changes were confirmed by qRT-PCR and western blot analysis. Ingenuity pathway analysis (IPA) of RNA-Seq data followed by validation qRT-PCR and western blot identified MYC and FOXO3a as potential transcription factors (TFs) upstream of the observed gene expression pattern. Immunoprecipitation (IP) studies showed that JQ1/BYL719-stimulated increase in BIM expression enhances the neutralization of antiapoptotic BCL-2, BCL-xL, and MCL-1. This promotes the activation of BAK and BAX and caspase-dependent apoptosis, as (1) individual silencing of BMF, BIM, NOXA, BAK, or BAX, (2) overexpression of BCL-2 or MCL-1 or (3) the caspase inhibitor N-Benzyloxycarbonyl-Val-Ala-Asp(O-Me) fluoromethylketone (zVAD.fmk) all rescue JQ1/BYL719-induced cell death. In conclusion, co-inhibition of BET proteins and PI3Kα cooperatively induces mitochondrial apoptosis by proapoptotic re-balancing of BCL-2 family proteins. This discovery opens exciting perspectives for therapeutic exploitation of BET inhibitors in RMS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cathinka Boedicker
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University, Frankfurt, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site, Frankfurt, Germany
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Michelle Hussong
- Laboratory for Epigenomics and Tumor genetics, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Christina Grimm
- Laboratory for Epigenomics and Tumor genetics, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Nadezda Dolgikh
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Michael T Meister
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University, Frankfurt, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site, Frankfurt, Germany
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Julius C Enßle
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Marek Wanior
- Institute for Pharmaceutical Chemistry and BMLS (SGC), Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Stefan Knapp
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site, Frankfurt, Germany
- Institute for Pharmaceutical Chemistry and BMLS (SGC), Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Michal R Schweiger
- Laboratory for Epigenomics and Tumor genetics, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Simone Fulda
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University, Frankfurt, Germany.
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site, Frankfurt, Germany.
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Boscolo Sesillo F, Fox D, Sacco A. Muscle Stem Cells Give Rise to Rhabdomyosarcomas in a Severe Mouse Model of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Cell Rep 2020; 26:689-701.e6. [PMID: 30650360 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2018.12.089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2018] [Revised: 10/09/2018] [Accepted: 12/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Most human cancers originate from high-turnover tissues, while low-proliferating tissues, like skeletal muscle, exhibit a lower incidence of tumor development. In Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), which induces increased skeletal muscle regeneration, tumor incidence is increased. Rhabdomyosarcomas (RMSs), a rare and aggressive type of soft tissue sarcoma, can develop in this context, but the impact of DMD severity on RMS development and its cell of origin are poorly understood. Here, we show that RMS latency is affected by DMD severity and that muscle stem cells (MuSCs) can give rise to RMS in dystrophic mice. We report that even before tumor formation, MuSCs exhibit increased self-renewal and an expression signature associated with RMSs. These cells can form tumorspheres in vitro and give rise to RMSs in vivo. Finally, we show that the inflammatory genes Ccl11 and Rgs5 are involved in RMS growth. Together, our results show that DMD severity drives MuSC-mediated RMS development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Boscolo Sesillo
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, 10901 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA; Development, Aging and Regeneration Program, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, 10901 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - David Fox
- Development, Aging and Regeneration Program, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, 10901 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Alessandra Sacco
- Development, Aging and Regeneration Program, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, 10901 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Chen C, Dorado Garcia H, Scheer M, Henssen AG. Current and Future Treatment Strategies for Rhabdomyosarcoma. Front Oncol 2019; 9:1458. [PMID: 31921698 PMCID: PMC6933601 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.01458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is the most common soft tissue sarcoma in children, and can be subcategorized histologically and/or based on PAX-FOXO1 fusion gene status. Over the last four decades, there have been no significant improvements in clinical outcomes for advanced and metastatic RMS patients, underscoring a need for new treatment options for these groups. Despite significant advancements in our understanding of the genomic landscape and underlying biological mechanisms governing RMS that have informed the identification of novel therapeutic targets, development of these therapies in clinical trials has lagged far behind. In this review, we summarize the current frontline multi-modality therapy for RMS according to pediatric protocols, highlight emerging targeted therapies and immunotherapies identified by preclinical studies, and discuss early clinical trial data and the implications they hold for future clinical development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Celine Chen
- Department of Pediatric Oncology/Hematology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Heathcliff Dorado Garcia
- Department of Pediatric Oncology/Hematology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Monika Scheer
- Pediatrics 5, Klinikum Stuttgart, Olgahospital, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Anton G. Henssen
- Department of Pediatric Oncology/Hematology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Berlin, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center (ECRC) of the MDC and Charité Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Concomitant targeting of Hedgehog signaling and MCL-1 synergistically induces cell death in Hedgehog-driven cancer cells. Cancer Lett 2019; 465:1-11. [PMID: 31465840 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2019.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2019] [Revised: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In the present study, we show that concomitant inhibition of Hedgehog (HH) signaling by the glioma-associated oncogene homolog1 (GLI1)-targeting agent GANT61 and the antiapoptotic BCL-2 protein family member MCL-1 by A-1210477 synergistically induces cell death in HH-driven cancers, i.e. rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) and medulloblastoma (MB) cells. Combined genetic and pharmacological inhibition emphasized that co-treatment of GANT61 and A-1210477 indeed relies on inhibition of GLI1 (by GANT61) and MCL-1 (by A-1210477). Mechanistic studies revealed that A-1210477 triggers the release of BIM from MCL-1 and its shuttling to BCL-xL and BCL-2. Indeed, BIM proved to be required for GANT61/A-1210477-induced cell death, as genetic silencing of BIM using siRNA significantly rescues cell death upon GANT61/A-1210477 co-treatment. Similarly, genetic silencing of NOXA results in a significant reduction of GANT61/A-1210477-mediated cell death. Also, overexpression of MCL-1 or BCL-2 significantly protects RMS cells from GANT61/A-1210477-triggered cell death. Addition of the pan-caspase inhibitor zVAD.fmk significantly decreases GANT61/A-1210477-stimulated cell demise, indicating apoptotic cell death. In conclusion, GANT61 and A-1210477 synergize to engage mitochondrial apoptosis. These findings provide the rationale for further evaluation of dual inhibition of HH signaling and MCL-1 in HH-driven cancers.
Collapse
|
18
|
Hayes MN, McCarthy K, Jin A, Oliveira ML, Iyer S, Garcia SP, Sindiri S, Gryder B, Motala Z, Nielsen GP, Borg JP, van de Rijn M, Malkin D, Khan J, Ignatius MS, Langenau DM. Vangl2/RhoA Signaling Pathway Regulates Stem Cell Self-Renewal Programs and Growth in Rhabdomyosarcoma. Cell Stem Cell 2019; 22:414-427.e6. [PMID: 29499154 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2018.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2017] [Revised: 12/14/2017] [Accepted: 02/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Tumor growth and relapse are driven by tumor propagating cells (TPCs). However, mechanisms regulating TPC fate choices, maintenance, and self-renewal are not fully understood. Here, we show that Van Gogh-like 2 (Vangl2), a core regulator of the non-canonical Wnt/planar cell polarity (Wnt/PCP) pathway, affects TPC self-renewal in rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS)-a pediatric cancer of muscle. VANGL2 is expressed in a majority of human RMS and within early mononuclear progenitor cells. VANGL2 depletion inhibited cell proliferation, reduced TPC numbers, and induced differentiation of human RMS in vitro and in mouse xenografts. Using a zebrafish model of embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma (ERMS), we determined that Vangl2 expression enriches for TPCs and promotes their self-renewal. Expression of constitutively active and dominant-negative isoforms of RHOA revealed that it acts downstream of VANGL2 to regulate proliferation and maintenance of TPCs in human RMS. Our studies offer insights into pathways that control TPCs and identify new potential therapeutic targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Madeline N Hayes
- Molecular Pathology, Cancer Center, and Regenerative Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital Research Institute, Boston, MA 02129, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Karin McCarthy
- Molecular Pathology, Cancer Center, and Regenerative Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital Research Institute, Boston, MA 02129, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Alexander Jin
- Molecular Pathology, Cancer Center, and Regenerative Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital Research Institute, Boston, MA 02129, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Mariana L Oliveira
- Molecular Pathology, Cancer Center, and Regenerative Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital Research Institute, Boston, MA 02129, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Sowmya Iyer
- Molecular Pathology, Cancer Center, and Regenerative Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital Research Institute, Boston, MA 02129, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Sara P Garcia
- Molecular Pathology, Cancer Center, and Regenerative Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital Research Institute, Boston, MA 02129, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Sivasish Sindiri
- Oncogenomics Section, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, 37 Convent Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Berkley Gryder
- Oncogenomics Section, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, 37 Convent Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Zainab Motala
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Hospital for Sick Children and Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G1X8, Canada
| | - G Petur Nielsen
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02129, USA
| | - Jean-Paul Borg
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Marseille, Aix Marseille Univ UM105, Inst Paoli Calmettes, UMR7258 CNRS, U1068 INSERM, "Cell Polarity, Cell signalling and Cancer - Equipe labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer," Marseille, France
| | - Matt van de Rijn
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - David Malkin
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Hospital for Sick Children and Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G1X8, Canada
| | - Javed Khan
- Oncogenomics Section, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, 37 Convent Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Myron S Ignatius
- Molecular Medicine and Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute, UTHSCSA, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - David M Langenau
- Molecular Pathology, Cancer Center, and Regenerative Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital Research Institute, Boston, MA 02129, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Curran T. Reproducibility of academic preclinical translational research: lessons from the development of Hedgehog pathway inhibitors to treat cancer. Open Biol 2019; 8:rsob.180098. [PMID: 30068568 PMCID: PMC6119869 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.180098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Academic translational research is growing at a great pace at a time in which questions have been raised about the reproducibility of preclinical findings. The development of Hedgehog (HH) pathway inhibitors for the treatment of cancer over the past two decades offers a case study for understanding the root causes of failure to predict clinical outcomes arising from academic preclinical translational research. Although such inhibitors were once hoped to be efficacious in up to 25% of human cancer, clinical studies showed responses only in basal cell carcinoma and the HH subtype of medulloblastoma. Close examination of the published studies reveals limitations in the models used, lack of quantitative standards, utilization of high drug concentrations associated with non-specific toxicities and improper use of cell line and mouse models. In part, these issues arise from scientific complexity, for example, the failure of tumour cell lines to maintain HH pathway activity in vitro, but a greater contributing factor appears to be the influence of unconscious bias. There was a strong expectation that HH pathway inhibitors would make a profound impact on human cancer and experiments were designed with this assumption in mind.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tom Curran
- Children's Research Institute, Children's Mercy Kansas City, 2401 Gillham Road, Kansas City, MI 64108, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Raleigh DR, Reiter JF. Misactivation of Hedgehog signaling causes inherited and sporadic cancers. J Clin Invest 2019; 129:465-475. [PMID: 30707108 DOI: 10.1172/jci120850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The Hedgehog pathway is critical for the development of diverse organs. Misactivation of the Hedgehog pathway can cause developmental abnormalities and cancers, including medulloblastoma, the most common pediatric brain tumor, and basal cell carcinoma, the most common cancer in the United States. Here, we review how basic, translational, and clinical studies of the Hedgehog pathway have helped reveal how cells communicate, how intercellular communication controls development, how signaling goes awry to cause cancer, and how to use targeted molecular agents to treat both inherited and sporadic cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David R Raleigh
- Department of Radiation Oncology.,Department of Neurological Surgery, and
| | - Jeremy F Reiter
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, UCSF, San Francisco, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Pal A, Chiu HY, Taneja R. Genetics, epigenetics and redox homeostasis in rhabdomyosarcoma: Emerging targets and therapeutics. Redox Biol 2019; 25:101124. [PMID: 30709791 PMCID: PMC6859585 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2019.101124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Revised: 01/20/2019] [Accepted: 01/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is the most common soft tissue sarcoma accounting for 5–8% of malignant tumours in children and adolescents. Children with high risk disease have poor prognosis. Anti-RMS therapies include surgery, radiation and combination chemotherapy. While these strategies improved survival rates, they have plateaued since 1990s as drugs that target differentiation and self-renewal of tumours cells have not been identified. Moreover, prevailing treatments are aggressive with drug resistance and metastasis causing failure of several treatment regimes. Significant advances have been made recently in understanding the genetic and epigenetic landscape in RMS. These studies have identified novel diagnostic and prognostic markers and opened new avenues for treatment. An important target identified in high throughput drug screening studies is reactive oxygen species (ROS). Indeed, many drugs in clinical trials for RMS impact tumour progression through ROS. In light of such emerging evidence, we discuss recent findings highlighting key pathways, epigenetic alterations and their impacts on ROS that form the basis of developing novel molecularly targeted therapies in RMS. Such targeted therapies in combination with conventional therapy could reduce adverse side effects in young survivors and lead to a decline in long-term morbidity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ananya Pal
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117593, Singapore
| | - Hsin Yao Chiu
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117593, Singapore
| | - Reshma Taneja
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117593, Singapore.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is the most common soft tissue sarcoma in children and represents a high-grade neoplasm of skeletal myoblast-like cells. Decades of clinical and basic research have gradually improved our understanding of the pathophysiology of RMS and helped to optimize clinical care. The two major subtypes of RMS, originally characterized on the basis of light microscopic features, are driven by fundamentally different molecular mechanisms and pose distinct clinical challenges. Curative therapy depends on control of the primary tumour, which can arise at many distinct anatomical sites, as well as controlling disseminated disease that is known or assumed to be present in every case. Sophisticated risk stratification for children with RMS incorporates various clinical, pathological and molecular features, and that information is used to guide the application of multifaceted therapy. Such therapy has historically included cytotoxic chemotherapy as well as surgery, ionizing radiation or both. This Primer describes our current understanding of RMS epidemiology, disease susceptibility factors, disease mechanisms and elements of clinical care, including diagnostics, risk-based care of newly diagnosed and relapsed disease and the prevention and management of late effects in survivors. We also outline potential opportunities to further translate new biological insights into improved clinical outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen X Skapek
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
- Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
| | - Andrea Ferrari
- Pediatric Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Abha A Gupta
- Department of Pediatrics, Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Philip J Lupo
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology-Oncology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Erin Butler
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Janet Shipley
- Divisions of Molecular Pathology and Cancer Therapeutics, The Institute of Cancer Research, Belmont, UK
| | - Frederic G Barr
- Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Douglas S Hawkins
- Seattle Children's Hospital, University of Washington, and Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Niyaz M, Khan MS, Wani RA, Shah OJ, Mudassar S. Sonic Hedgehog Protein is Frequently Up-Regulated in Pancreatic Cancer Compared to Colorectal Cancer. Pathol Oncol Res 2018; 26:551-557. [PMID: 30539521 DOI: 10.1007/s12253-018-00564-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2017] [Accepted: 12/03/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Sonic hedgehog (SHH) is a secreted protein which functions in autocrine or paracrine fashion on target cells to activate hedgehog (HH) signalling cascade responsible for growth and proliferation. This study is an attempt to understand the expression dynamics of SHH protein in colon, rectal and pancreatic cancers. Protein expression of SHH was studied by Western Blotting in the histologically confirmed colon, rectum and pancreatic cancer tissue samples along with their adjacent normal tissues. Only 31.4% (11 of 35) and 26.9% (7 of 26) of colon and rectal cancer cases respectively showed an increase in SHH expression in tumours compared to 72.7% (24 of 33) of the pancreatic cancer cases when compared with their adjacent normal tissues. Our results suggest that SHH may have a strong role in the predisposition of Pancreatic cancer and could possibly be used as a diagnostic or prognostic biomarker.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Madiha Niyaz
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Soura, Srinagar, Kashmir, 190011, India
| | - Mosin S Khan
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Soura, Srinagar, Kashmir, 190011, India
| | - Rauf A Wani
- Department of General and Minimal Invasive Surgery, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Soura, Srinagar, 190011, India
| | - Omar J Shah
- Department of Surgical Gastroenterology, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Soura, Srinagar, 190011, India
| | - Syed Mudassar
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Soura, Srinagar, Kashmir, 190011, India.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Duxbling Stem Cells Meet Tumorigenesis. Cell Stem Cell 2018; 23:773-774. [PMID: 30526876 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2018.11.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Identification of tumor-initiating populations could provide insights into tumor heterogeneity and responses to treatments, but this has proven difficult in most cancers. Now in Cell Stem Cell, Preussner et al. (2018) provide direct evidence that regenerating muscle satellite cells can be transformed to initiate and propagate rhabdomyosarcoma tumors.
Collapse
|
25
|
Genadry KC, Pietrobono S, Rota R, Linardic CM. Soft Tissue Sarcoma Cancer Stem Cells: An Overview. Front Oncol 2018; 8:475. [PMID: 30416982 PMCID: PMC6212576 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2018.00475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2018] [Accepted: 10/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Soft tissue sarcomas (STSs) are an uncommon group of solid tumors that can arise throughout the human lifespan. Despite their commonality as non-bony cancers that develop from mesenchymal cell precursors, they are heterogeneous in their genetic profiles, histology, and clinical features. This has made it difficult to identify a single target or therapy specific to STSs. And while there is no one cell of origin ascribed to all STSs, the cancer stem cell (CSC) principle—that a subpopulation of tumor cells possesses stem cell-like properties underlying tumor initiation, therapeutic resistance, disease recurrence, and metastasis—predicts that ultimately it should be possible to identify a feature common to all STSs that could function as a therapeutic Achilles' heel. Here we review the published evidence for CSCs in each of the most common STSs, then focus on the methods used to study CSCs, the developmental signaling pathways usurped by CSCs, and the epigenetic alterations critical for CSC identity that may be useful for further study of STS biology. We conclude with discussion of some challenges to the field and future directions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katia C Genadry
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Silvia Pietrobono
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Bambino Gesù Pediatric Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Rossella Rota
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Bambino Gesù Pediatric Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Corinne M Linardic
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States.,Department of Pharmacology & Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Geyer N, Ridzewski R, Bauer J, Kuzyakova M, Dittmann K, Dullin C, Rosenberger A, Schildhaus HU, Uhmann A, Fulda S, Hahn H. Different Response of Ptch Mutant and Ptch Wildtype Rhabdomyosarcoma Toward SMO and PI3K Inhibitors. Front Oncol 2018; 8:396. [PMID: 30319965 PMCID: PMC6168716 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2018.00396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2018] [Accepted: 08/31/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is the most common pediatric soft tissue sarcoma with poor prognosis. RMS frequently show Hedgehog (HH) pathway activity, which is predominantly seen in the embryonal subtype (ERMS). They also show activation of Phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase (PI3K) signaling. Here we compared the therapeutic effectiveness and the impact on HH target gene expression of Smoothened (SMO) antagonists with those of the PI3K inhibitor pictilisib in ERMS with and without mutations in the HH receptor Patched1 (PTCH). Our data demonstrate that growth of ERMS showing canonical Hh signaling activity due to Ptch germline mutations is efficiently reduced by SMO antagonists. This goes along with strong downregulation of the Hh target Gli1. Likewise Ptch mutant tumors are highly responsive toward the PI3K inhibitor pictilisib, which involves modulation of AKT and caspase activity. Pictilisib also modulates Hh target gene expression, which, however, is rather not correlated with its antitumoral effects. In contrast, sporadic ERMS, which usually express HH target genes without having PTCH mutation, apparently lack canonical HH signaling activity. Thus, stimulation by Sonic HE (SHH) or SAG (Smoothened agonist) or inhibition by SMO antagonists do not modulate HH target gene expression. In addition, SMO antagonists do not provoke efficient anticancer effects and rather exert off-target effects. In contrast, pictilisib and other PI3K/AKT/mTOR inhibitors potently inhibit cellular growth. They also efficiently inhibit HH target gene expression. However, of whether this is correlated with their antitumoral effects it is not clear. Together, these data suggest that PI3K inhibitors are a good and reliable therapeutic option for all ERMS, whereas SMO inhibitors might only be beneficial for ERMS driven by PTCH mutations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Geyer
- Institute for Human Genetics, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Rosalie Ridzewski
- Institute for Human Genetics, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Julia Bauer
- Institute for Human Genetics, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Maria Kuzyakova
- Institute for Human Genetics, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Kai Dittmann
- Institute for Celluar and Molecular Immunology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Christian Dullin
- Institute for Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Albert Rosenberger
- Department of Genetic Epidemiology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | | | - Anja Uhmann
- Institute for Human Genetics, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Simone Fulda
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Heidi Hahn
- Institute for Human Genetics, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Réda J, Vachtenheim J, Vlčková K, Horák P, Vachtenheim J, Ondrušová L. Widespread Expression of Hedgehog Pathway Components in a Large Panel of Human Tumor Cells and Inhibition of Tumor Growth by GANT61: Implications for Cancer Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19092682. [PMID: 30201866 PMCID: PMC6163708 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19092682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2018] [Revised: 08/29/2018] [Accepted: 09/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The sonic Hedgehog/GLI signaling pathway (HH) is critical for maintaining tissue polarity in development and contributes to tumor stemness. Transcription factors GLI1–3 are the downstream effectors of HH and activate oncogenic targets. To explore the completeness of the expression of HH components in tumor cells, we performed a screen for all HH proteins in a wide spectrum of 56 tumor cell lines of various origin using Western blot analysis. Generally, all HH proteins were expressed. Important factors GLI1 and GLI2 were always expressed, only exceptionally one of them was lowered, suggesting the functionality of HH in all tumors tested. We determined the effect of a GLI inhibitor GANT61 on proliferation in 16 chosen cell lines. More than half of tumor cells were sensitive to GANT61 to various extents. GANT61 killed the sensitive cells through apoptosis. The inhibition of reporter activity containing 12xGLI consensus sites by GANT61 and cyclopamine roughly correlated with cell proliferation influenced by GANT61. Our results recognize the sensitivity of tumor cell types to GANT61 in cell culture and support a critical role for GLI factors in tumor progression through restraining apoptosis. The use of GANT61 in combined targeted therapy of sensitive tumors, such as melanomas, seems to be immensely helpful.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiri Réda
- Department of Transcription and Cell Signaling, Institute of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Diagnostics, Charles University Prague, 12108 Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Jiri Vachtenheim
- Department of Transcription and Cell Signaling, Institute of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Diagnostics, Charles University Prague, 12108 Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Kateřina Vlčková
- Department of Transcription and Cell Signaling, Institute of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Diagnostics, Charles University Prague, 12108 Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Pavel Horák
- Department of Transcription and Cell Signaling, Institute of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Diagnostics, Charles University Prague, 12108 Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Jiri Vachtenheim
- Third Department of Surgery, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University Prague and University Hospital Motol, 15006 Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Lubica Ondrušová
- Department of Transcription and Cell Signaling, Institute of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Diagnostics, Charles University Prague, 12108 Prague, Czech Republic.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Ignatius MS, Hayes MN, Lobbardi R, Chen EY, McCarthy KM, Sreenivas P, Motala Z, Durbin AD, Molodtsov A, Reeder S, Jin A, Sindiri S, Beleyea BC, Bhere D, Alexander MS, Shah K, Keller C, Linardic CM, Nielsen PG, Malkin D, Khan J, Langenau DM. The NOTCH1/SNAIL1/MEF2C Pathway Regulates Growth and Self-Renewal in Embryonal Rhabdomyosarcoma. Cell Rep 2018; 19:2304-2318. [PMID: 28614716 PMCID: PMC5563075 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2017.05.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2016] [Revised: 04/08/2017] [Accepted: 05/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor-propagating cells (TPCs) share self-renewal properties with normal stem cells and drive continued tumor growth. However, mechanisms regulating TPC self-renewal are largely unknown, especially in embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma (ERMS)-a common pediatric cancer of muscle. Here, we used a zebrafish transgenic model of ERMS to identify a role for intracellular NOTCH1 (ICN1) in increasing TPCs by 23-fold. ICN1 expanded TPCs by enabling the de-differentiation of zebrafish ERMS cells into self-renewing myf5+ TPCs, breaking the rigid differentiation hierarchies reported in normal muscle. ICN1 also had conserved roles in regulating human ERMS self-renewal and growth. Mechanistically, ICN1 upregulated expression of SNAIL1, a transcriptional repressor, to increase TPC number in human ERMS and to block muscle differentiation through suppressing MEF2C, a myogenic differentiation transcription factor. Our data implicate the NOTCH1/SNAI1/MEF2C signaling axis as a major determinant of TPC self-renewal and differentiation in ERMS, raising hope of therapeutically targeting this pathway in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Myron S Ignatius
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Center of Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute and Department of Molecular Medicine, UT Health Sciences Center, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Madeline N Hayes
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Center of Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Riadh Lobbardi
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Center of Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Eleanor Y Chen
- Department of Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Karin M McCarthy
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Prethish Sreenivas
- Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute and Department of Molecular Medicine, UT Health Sciences Center, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Zainab Motala
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Hospital for Sick Children and Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1X8, Canada
| | - Adam D Durbin
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Aleksey Molodtsov
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Sophia Reeder
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Alexander Jin
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Sivasish Sindiri
- Oncogenomics Section, Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Brian C Beleyea
- Department of Pediatrics and Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Deepak Bhere
- Molecular Neurotherapy and Imaging Laboratory, Stem Cell Therapeutics and Imaging Program, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Matthew S Alexander
- Department of Pediatrics and Genetics, Children's of Alabama and the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Khalid Shah
- Department of Pediatrics and Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Charles Keller
- Children's Cancer Therapy Development Institute, Beaverton, OR 97005, USA
| | - Corinne M Linardic
- Oncogenomics Section, Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Petur G Nielsen
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Center of Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA
| | - David Malkin
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Hospital for Sick Children and Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1X8, Canada
| | - Javed Khan
- Oncogenomics Section, Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - David M Langenau
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Center of Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Drummond CJ, Hanna JA, Garcia MR, Devine DJ, Heyrana AJ, Finkelstein D, Rehg JE, Hatley ME. Hedgehog Pathway Drives Fusion-Negative Rhabdomyosarcoma Initiated From Non-myogenic Endothelial Progenitors. Cancer Cell 2018; 33:108-124.e5. [PMID: 29316425 PMCID: PMC5790179 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2017.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2017] [Revised: 10/30/2017] [Accepted: 11/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is a pediatric soft tissue sarcoma that histologically resembles embryonic skeletal muscle. RMS occurs throughout the body and an exclusively myogenic origin does not account for RMS occurring in sites devoid of skeletal muscle. We previously described an RMS model activating a conditional constitutively active Smoothened mutant (SmoM2) with aP2-Cre. Using genetic fate mapping, we show SmoM2 expression in Cre-expressing endothelial progenitors results in myogenic transdifferentiation and RMS. We show that endothelium and skeletal muscle within the head and neck arise from Kdr-expressing progenitors, and that hedgehog pathway activation results in aberrant expression of myogenic specification factors as a potential mechanism driving RMS genesis. These findings suggest that RMS can originate from aberrant development of non-myogenic cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Catherine J Drummond
- Department of Oncology, MS-352, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Jason A Hanna
- Department of Oncology, MS-352, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Matthew R Garcia
- Department of Oncology, MS-352, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Daniel J Devine
- Department of Oncology, MS-352, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Alana J Heyrana
- Department of Oncology, MS-352, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - David Finkelstein
- Department of Computational Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Jerold E Rehg
- Department of Pathology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Mark E Hatley
- Department of Oncology, MS-352, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Personalized therapy: CNS HGNET-BCOR responsiveness to arsenic trioxide combined with radiotherapy. Oncotarget 2017; 8:114210-114225. [PMID: 29371980 PMCID: PMC5768397 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.23174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2017] [Accepted: 11/16/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
High-grade neuroepithelial tumor of the central nervous system with BCOR alteration (HGNET-BCOR) is a rare, highly malignant tumor. At the time of this publication, no standard protocol exists to treat this tumor entity. In this work, we tested the responsiveness of the primary culture PhKh1 derived from tumor tissue from a pediatric HGNET-BCOR patient (P1) to inhibitors of the Sonic hedgehog pathway combined with radiation. The SMO inhibitors vismodegib and itraconazole had low effect on the proliferation of the PhKh1 cells. However, the GLI inhibitor arsenic trioxide reduced the expression of GLI target genes in the PhKh1 cells and in combination with radiotherapy significantly decreased their clonogenic potential. PhKh1 cells resistant to arsenic trioxide were characterized by the overexpression of molecular chaperones. We combined arsenic trioxide and radiation in the relapse therapy protocol of P1, achieving complete remission after seven weeks. Clinical remission lasted for six months, when P1 developed systemic metastases. Meanwhile, an increase in the concentration of circulating tumor DNA carrying a BCOR internal tandem duplication was observed. Molecular characterization of a second patient (P2) was also performed. In P2, we detected a larger tandem duplication and greater activation of the Sonic hedgehog pathway than in P1. These findings suggest that combining arsenic trioxide with radiotherapy may represent a new therapeutic approach. Moreover, peripheral blood analysis for circulating tumor DNA could help in the early detection of systemic metastases.
Collapse
|
31
|
Slemmons KK, Crose LES, Riedel S, Sushnitha M, Belyea B, Linardic CM. A Novel Notch-YAP Circuit Drives Stemness and Tumorigenesis in Embryonal Rhabdomyosarcoma. Mol Cancer Res 2017; 15:1777-1791. [PMID: 28923841 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-17-0004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2017] [Revised: 08/24/2017] [Accepted: 09/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS), a cancer characterized by skeletal muscle features, is the most common soft-tissue sarcoma of childhood. While low- and intermediate-risk groups have seen improved outcomes, high-risk patients still face a 5-year survival rate of <30%, a statistic that has not changed in over 40 years. Understanding the biologic underpinnings of RMS is critical. The developmental pathways of Notch and YAP have been identified as potent but independent oncogenic signals that support the embryonal variant of RMS (eRMS). Here, the cross-talk between these pathways and the impact on eRMS tumorigenesis is reported. Using human eRMS cells grown as three-dimensional (3D) rhabdospheres, which enriches in stem cells, it was found that Notch signaling transcriptionally upregulates YAP1 gene expression and YAP activity. Reciprocally, YAP transcriptionally upregulates the Notch ligand genes JAG1 and DLL1 and the core Notch transcription factor RBPJ This bidirectional circuit boosts expression of key stem cell genes, including SOX2, which is functionally required for eRMS spheres. Silencing this circuit for therapeutic purposes may be challenging, because the inhibition of one node (e.g., pharmacologic Notch blockade) can be rescued by upregulation of another (constitutive YAP expression). Instead, dual inhibition of Notch and YAP is necessary. Finally, supporting the existence of this circuit beyond a model system, nuclear Notch and YAP protein expression are correlated in human eRMS tumors, and YAP suppression in vivo decreases Notch signaling and SOX2 expression.Implications: This study identifies a novel oncogenic signaling circuit driving eRMS stemness and tumorigenesis, and provides evidence and rationale for combination therapies co-targeting Notch and YAP. Mol Cancer Res; 15(12); 1777-91. ©2017 AACR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine K Slemmons
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Lisa E S Crose
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Stefan Riedel
- Duke Summer Research Opportunity Program, Duke University Graduate School, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Manuela Sushnitha
- Summer Undergraduate Research in Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Brian Belyea
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Corinne M Linardic
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina.
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Ligand-dependent Hedgehog pathway activation in Rhabdomyosarcoma: the oncogenic role of the ligands. Br J Cancer 2017; 117:1314-1325. [PMID: 28881358 PMCID: PMC5672936 DOI: 10.1038/bjc.2017.305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2017] [Revised: 08/02/2017] [Accepted: 08/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is the most common type of soft tissue sarcoma in children. The Hedgehog (HH) pathway is known to develop an oncogenic role in RMS. However, the molecular mechanism that drives activation of the pathway in RMS is not well understood. METHODS The expression of HH ligands was studied by qPCR, western blot and immunohistochemistry. Functional and animal model studies were carried out with cells transduced with shRNAs against HH ligands or treated with HH-specific inhibitors (Vismodegib and MEDI-5304). Finally, the molecular characterisation of an off-target effect of Vismodegib was also made. RESULTS The results showed a prominent expression of HH ligands supporting an autocrine ligand-dependent activation of the pathway. A comparison of pharmacologic Smoothened inhibition (Vismodegib) and HH ligand blocking (MEDI-5304) is also provided. Interestingly, a first description of pernicious off-target effect of Vismodegib is also reported. CONCLUSIONS The clarification of the HH pathway activation mechanism in RMS opens a door for targeted therapies against HH ligands as a possible alternative in the future development of better treatment protocols. Moreover, the description of a pernicious off-target effect of Vismodegib, via unfolded protein response activation, may mechanistically explain its previously reported inefficiency in several ligand-dependent cancers.
Collapse
|
33
|
El Demellawy D, McGowan-Jordan J, de Nanassy J, Chernetsova E, Nasr A. Update on molecular findings in rhabdomyosarcoma. Pathology 2017; 49:238-246. [PMID: 28256213 DOI: 10.1016/j.pathol.2016.12.345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2016] [Revised: 12/12/2016] [Accepted: 12/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is the most common malignant soft tissue tumour in children and adolescents. Histologically RMS resembles developing fetal striated skeletal muscle. RMS is stratified into different histological subtypes which appear to influence management plans and patient outcome. Importantly, molecular classification of RMS seems to more accurately capture the true biology and clinical course and prognosis of RMS to guide therapeutic decisions. The identification of PAX-FOXO1 fusion status in RMS is one of the most important updates in the risk stratification of RMS. There are several genes close to PAX that are frequently altered including the RAS family, FGFR4, PIK3CA, CTNNB1, FBXW7, and BCOR. As with most paediatric blue round cell tumours and sarcomas, chemotherapy is the key regimen for RMS therapy. Currently there are no direct inhibitors against PAX-FOXO1 fusion oncoproteins and targeting epigenetic cofactors is limited to clinical trials. Failure of therapy in RMS is usually related to drug resistance and metastatic disease. Through this review we have highlighted most of the molecular aspects in RMS and have attempted to correlate with RMS classification, treatment and prognosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dina El Demellawy
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Pediatric Pathology, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Jean McGowan-Jordan
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Genetics, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ontario, Canada
| | - Joseph de Nanassy
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Pediatric Pathology, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Ahmed Nasr
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Pediatric Surgery, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Kakiuchi S, Minami Y, Miyata Y, Mizutani Y, Goto H, Kawamoto S, Yakushijin K, Kurata K, Matsuoka H, Minami H. NANOG Expression as a Responsive Biomarker during Treatment with Hedgehog Signal Inhibitor in Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18030486. [PMID: 28245563 PMCID: PMC5372502 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18030486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2017] [Revised: 02/14/2017] [Accepted: 02/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Aberrant activation of the Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway is involved in the maintenance of leukemic stem cell (LSCs) populations. PF-0444913 (PF-913) is a novel inhibitor that selectively targets Smoothened (SMO), which regulates the Hh pathway. Treatment with PF-913 has shown promising results in an early phase study of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). However, a detailed mode of action for PF-913 and relevant biomarkers remain to be elucidated. In this study, we examined bone marrow samples derived from AML patients under PF-913 monotherapy. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) revealed that PF-913 treatment affected the self-renewal signature and cell-cycle regulation associated with LSC-like properties. We then focused on the expression of a pluripotency factor, NANOG, because previous reports showed that a downstream effector in the Hh pathway, GLI, directly binds to the NANOG promoter and that the GLI-NANOG axis promotes stemness and growth in several cancers. In this study, we found that a change in NANOG transcripts was closely associated with GLI-target genes and NANOG transcripts can be a responsive biomarker during PF-913 therapy. Additionally, the treatment of AML with PF-913 holds promise, possibly through inducing quiescent leukemia stem cells toward cell cycling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seiji Kakiuchi
- Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe 650-0017, Japan.
| | - Yosuke Minami
- Department of Transfusion Medicine and Cell Therapy, Kobe University Hospital, Kobe 650-0017, Japan.
| | - Yoshiharu Miyata
- Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe 650-0017, Japan.
| | - Yu Mizutani
- Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe 650-0017, Japan.
| | - Hideaki Goto
- Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe 650-0017, Japan.
| | - Shinichiro Kawamoto
- Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Kobe University Hospital, Kobe 650-0017, Japan.
| | - Kimikazu Yakushijin
- Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Kobe University Hospital, Kobe 650-0017, Japan.
| | - Keiji Kurata
- Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe 650-0017, Japan.
| | - Hiroshi Matsuoka
- Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe 650-0017, Japan.
| | - Hironobu Minami
- Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe 650-0017, Japan.
- Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Kobe University Hospital, Kobe 650-0017, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Hedgehog Pathway Inhibition Hampers Sphere and Holoclone Formation in Rhabdomyosarcoma. Stem Cells Int 2017; 2017:7507380. [PMID: 28243259 PMCID: PMC5294584 DOI: 10.1155/2017/7507380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2016] [Revised: 12/02/2016] [Accepted: 12/28/2016] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is the most common type of soft tissue sarcoma in children and can be divided into two main subtypes: embryonal (eRMS) and alveolar (aRMS). Among the cellular heterogeneity of tumors, the existence of a small fraction of cells called cancer stem cells (CSC), thought to be responsible for the onset and propagation of cancer, has been demonstrated in some neoplasia. Although the existence of CSC has been reported for eRMS, their existence in aRMS, the most malignant subtype, has not been demonstrated to date. Given the lack of suitable markers to identify this subpopulation in aRMS, we used cancer stem cell-enriched supracellular structures (spheres and holoclones) to study this subpopulation. This strategy allowed us to demonstrate the capacity of both aRMS and eRMS cells to form these structures and retain self-renewal capacity. Furthermore, cells contained in spheres and holoclones showed significant Hedgehog pathway induction, the inhibition of which (pharmacologic or genetic) impairs the formation of both holoclones and spheres. Our findings point to a crucial role of this pathway in the maintenance of these structures and suggest that Hedgehog pathway targeting in CSC may have great potential in preventing local relapses and metastases.
Collapse
|
36
|
Tenente IM, Hayes MN, Ignatius MS, McCarthy K, Yohe M, Sindiri S, Gryder B, Oliveira ML, Ramakrishnan A, Tang Q, Chen EY, Petur Nielsen G, Khan J, Langenau DM. Myogenic regulatory transcription factors regulate growth in rhabdomyosarcoma. eLife 2017; 6. [PMID: 28080960 PMCID: PMC5231408 DOI: 10.7554/elife.19214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2016] [Accepted: 12/08/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is a pediatric malignacy of muscle with myogenic regulatory transcription factors MYOD and MYF5 being expressed in this disease. Consensus in the field has been that expression of these factors likely reflects the target cell of transformation rather than being required for continued tumor growth. Here, we used a transgenic zebrafish model to show that Myf5 is sufficient to confer tumor-propagating potential to RMS cells and caused tumors to initiate earlier and have higher penetrance. Analysis of human RMS revealed that MYF5 and MYOD are mutually-exclusively expressed and each is required for sustained tumor growth. ChIP-seq and mechanistic studies in human RMS uncovered that MYF5 and MYOD bind common DNA regulatory elements to alter transcription of genes that regulate muscle development and cell cycle progression. Our data support unappreciated and dominant oncogenic roles for MYF5 and MYOD convergence on common transcriptional targets to regulate human RMS growth. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.19214.001
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Inês M Tenente
- Molecular Pathology, Cancer Center, and Regenerative Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States.,Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, United States.,GABBA Program, Abel Salazar Biomedical Sciences Institute, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Madeline N Hayes
- Molecular Pathology, Cancer Center, and Regenerative Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States.,Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, United States
| | - Myron S Ignatius
- Molecular Pathology, Cancer Center, and Regenerative Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States.,Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, United States.,Molecular Medicine, Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute, San Antonio, United States
| | - Karin McCarthy
- Molecular Pathology, Cancer Center, and Regenerative Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States.,Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, United States
| | - Marielle Yohe
- Oncogenomics Section, Pediatric Oncology Branch, Advanced Technology Center, National Cancer Institute, Gaithersburg, United States
| | - Sivasish Sindiri
- Oncogenomics Section, Pediatric Oncology Branch, Advanced Technology Center, National Cancer Institute, Gaithersburg, United States
| | - Berkley Gryder
- Oncogenomics Section, Pediatric Oncology Branch, Advanced Technology Center, National Cancer Institute, Gaithersburg, United States
| | - Mariana L Oliveira
- Molecular Pathology, Cancer Center, and Regenerative Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States.,Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, United States.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ashwin Ramakrishnan
- Molecular Pathology, Cancer Center, and Regenerative Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States.,Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, United States
| | - Qin Tang
- Molecular Pathology, Cancer Center, and Regenerative Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States.,Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, United States
| | - Eleanor Y Chen
- Department of Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, United States
| | - G Petur Nielsen
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States
| | - Javed Khan
- Oncogenomics Section, Pediatric Oncology Branch, Advanced Technology Center, National Cancer Institute, Gaithersburg, United States
| | - David M Langenau
- Molecular Pathology, Cancer Center, and Regenerative Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States.,Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, United States
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Xu X, Lu Y, Li Y, Prinz RA. Sonic Hedgehog Signaling in Thyroid Cancer. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2017; 8:284. [PMID: 29163356 PMCID: PMC5670164 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2017.00284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2017] [Accepted: 10/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Thyroid cancer is the most common malignancy of the endocrine system. The initiation of thyroid cancer is often triggered by a genetic mutation in the phosphortidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K) or mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, such as RAS and BRAF, or by the rearrangement of growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase genes such as RET/PTC. The sonic hedgehog (Shh) pathway is evolutionarily conserved and plays an important role in the embryonic development of normal tissues and organs. Gene mutations in the Shh pathway are involved in basal cell carcinomas (BCC). Activation of the Shh pathway due to overexpression of the genes encoding the components of this pathway stimulates the growth and spread of a wide range of cancer types. The Shh pathway also plays an important role in cancer stem cell (CSC) self-renewal. GDC-0449 and LDE-225, two inhibitors of this pathway, have been approved for treating BCC and are being tested as a single agent or in combination with other drugs for treating various other cancers. Here, we review the recent findings on activation of the Shh pathway in thyroid cancer and its role in maintaining thyroid CSC self-renewal. We also summarize the recent developments on crosstalk of the Shh pathway with the MAPK and PI3K oncogenic pathways, and its implications for combination therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiulong Xu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Comparative Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, United States
- *Correspondence: Xiulong Xu, ,
| | - Yurong Lu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Comparative Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Yi Li
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Richard A. Prinz
- Department of Surgery, NorthShore University Health System, Evanston, IL, United States
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Martello M, Remondini D, Borsi E, Santacroce B, Procacci M, Pezzi A, Dico FA, Martinelli G, Zamagni E, Tacchetti P, Pantani L, Testoni N, Marzocchi G, Rocchi S, Zannetti BA, Mancuso K, Cavo M, Terragna C. Opposite activation of the Hedgehog pathway in CD138+ plasma cells and CD138-CD19+ B cells identifies two subgroups of patients with multiple myeloma and different prognosis. Leukemia 2016; 30:1869-76. [PMID: 27074969 DOI: 10.1038/leu.2016.77] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2015] [Revised: 03/02/2016] [Accepted: 03/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Hyperactivation of the Hedgehog (Hh) pathway, which controls refueling of multiple myeloma (MM) clones, might be critical to disease recurrence. Although several studies suggest the Hh pathway is activated in CD138- immature cells, differentiated CD138+ plasma cells might also be able to self-renew by producing themselves the Hh ligands. We studied the gene expression profiles of 126 newly diagnosed MM patients analyzed in both the CD138+ plasma cell fraction and CD138-CD19+ B-cell compartment. Results demonstrated that an Hh-gene signature was able to cluster patients in two subgroups characterized by the opposite Hh pathway expression in mature plasma cells and their precursors. Strikingly, patients characterized by Hh hyperactivation in plasma cells, but not in their B cells, displayed high genomic instability and an unfavorable outcome in terms of shorter progression-free survival (hazard ratio: 1.92; 95% confidence interval: 1.19-3.07) and overall survival (hazard ratio: 2.61; 95% confidence interval: 1.26-5.38). These results suggest that the mechanisms triggered by the Hh pathway ultimately led to identify a more indolent vs a more aggressive biological and clinical subtype of MM. Therefore, patient stratification according to their molecular background might help the fine-tuning of future clinical and therapeutic studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Martello
- Institute of Haematology 'L. & A. Seràgnoli', Department of Experimental Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), Bologna University School of Medicine, Bologna, Italy
| | - D Remondini
- Department of Physics and Astronomy (DIFA), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - E Borsi
- Institute of Haematology 'L. & A. Seràgnoli', Department of Experimental Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), Bologna University School of Medicine, Bologna, Italy
| | - B Santacroce
- Institute of Haematology 'L. & A. Seràgnoli', Department of Experimental Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), Bologna University School of Medicine, Bologna, Italy
| | - M Procacci
- Institute of Haematology 'L. & A. Seràgnoli', Department of Experimental Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), Bologna University School of Medicine, Bologna, Italy
| | - A Pezzi
- Institute of Haematology 'L. & A. Seràgnoli', Department of Experimental Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), Bologna University School of Medicine, Bologna, Italy
| | - F A Dico
- Institute of Haematology 'L. & A. Seràgnoli', Department of Experimental Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), Bologna University School of Medicine, Bologna, Italy
| | - G Martinelli
- Institute of Haematology 'L. & A. Seràgnoli', Department of Experimental Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), Bologna University School of Medicine, Bologna, Italy
| | - E Zamagni
- Institute of Haematology 'L. & A. Seràgnoli', Department of Experimental Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), Bologna University School of Medicine, Bologna, Italy
| | - P Tacchetti
- Institute of Haematology 'L. & A. Seràgnoli', Department of Experimental Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), Bologna University School of Medicine, Bologna, Italy
| | - L Pantani
- Institute of Haematology 'L. & A. Seràgnoli', Department of Experimental Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), Bologna University School of Medicine, Bologna, Italy
| | - N Testoni
- Institute of Haematology 'L. & A. Seràgnoli', Department of Experimental Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), Bologna University School of Medicine, Bologna, Italy
| | - G Marzocchi
- Institute of Haematology 'L. & A. Seràgnoli', Department of Experimental Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), Bologna University School of Medicine, Bologna, Italy
| | - S Rocchi
- Institute of Haematology 'L. & A. Seràgnoli', Department of Experimental Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), Bologna University School of Medicine, Bologna, Italy
| | - B A Zannetti
- Institute of Haematology 'L. & A. Seràgnoli', Department of Experimental Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), Bologna University School of Medicine, Bologna, Italy
| | - K Mancuso
- Institute of Haematology 'L. & A. Seràgnoli', Department of Experimental Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), Bologna University School of Medicine, Bologna, Italy
| | - M Cavo
- Institute of Haematology 'L. & A. Seràgnoli', Department of Experimental Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), Bologna University School of Medicine, Bologna, Italy
| | - C Terragna
- Institute of Haematology 'L. & A. Seràgnoli', Department of Experimental Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), Bologna University School of Medicine, Bologna, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Ciccarelli C, Vulcano F, Milazzo L, Gravina GL, Marampon F, Macioce G, Giampaolo A, Tombolini V, Di Paolo V, Hassan HJ, Zani BM. Key role of MEK/ERK pathway in sustaining tumorigenicity and in vitro radioresistance of embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma stem-like cell population. Mol Cancer 2016; 15:16. [PMID: 26897742 PMCID: PMC4761200 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-016-0501-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2015] [Accepted: 02/13/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The identification of signaling pathways that affect the cancer stem-like phenotype may provide insights into therapeutic targets for combating embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of the MEK/ERK pathway in controlling the cancer stem-like phenotype using a model of rhabdospheres derived from the embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma cell line (RD). METHODS Rhabdospheres enriched in cancer stem like cells were obtained growing RD cells in non adherent condition in stem cell medium. Stem cell markers were evaluated by FACS analysis and immunoblotting. ERK1/2, myogenic markers, proteins of DNA repair and bone marrow X-linked kinase (BMX) expression were evaluated by immunoblotting analysis. Radiation was delivered using an x-6 MV photon linear accelerator. Xenografts were obtained in NOD/SCID mice by subcutaneously injection of rhabdosphere cells or cells pretreated with U0126 in stem cell medium. RESULTS MEK/ERK inhibitor U0126 dramatically prevented rhabdosphere formation and down-regulated stem cell markers CD133, CXCR4 and Nanog expression, but enhanced ALDH, MAPK phospho-active p38 and differentiative myogenic markers. By contrast, MAPK p38 inhibition accelerated rhabdosphere formation and enhanced phospho-active ERK1/2 and Nanog expression. RD cells, chronically treated with U0126 and then xeno-transplanted in NOD/SCID mice, delayed tumor development and reduced tumor mass when compared with tumor induced by rhabdosphere cells. U0126 intraperitoneal administration to mice bearing rhabdosphere-derived tumors inhibited tumor growth . The MEK/ERK pathway role in rhabdosphere radiosensitivity was investigated in vitro. Disassembly of rhabdospheres was induced by both radiation or U0126, and further enhanced by combined treatment. In U0126-treated rhabdospheres, the expression of the stem cell markers CD133 and CXCR4 decreased and dropped even more markedly following combined treatment. The expression of BMX, a negative regulator of apoptosis, also decreased following combined treatment, which suggests an increase in radiosensitivity of rhabdosphere cells. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate that the MEK/ERK pathway plays a prominent role in maintaining the stem-like phenotype of RD cells, their survival and their innate radioresistance. Thus, therapeutic strategies that target cancer stem cells, which are resistant to traditional cancer therapies, may benefit from MEK/ERK inhibition combined with traditional radiotherapy, thereby providing a promising therapy for embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carmela Ciccarelli
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio, Coppito 2, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - Francesca Vulcano
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.
| | - Luisa Milazzo
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Luca Gravina
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio, Coppito 2, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - Francesco Marampon
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio, Coppito 2, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - Giampiero Macioce
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.
| | - Adele Giampaolo
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.
| | | | - Virginia Di Paolo
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic, Section of Histology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| | - Hamisa Jane Hassan
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.
| | - Bianca Maria Zani
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio, Coppito 2, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Vleeshouwer-Neumann T, Phelps M, Bammler TK, MacDonald JW, Jenkins I, Chen EY. Histone Deacetylase Inhibitors Antagonize Distinct Pathways to Suppress Tumorigenesis of Embryonal Rhabdomyosarcoma. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0144320. [PMID: 26636678 PMCID: PMC4670218 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0144320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2015] [Accepted: 11/15/2015] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma (ERMS) is the most common soft tissue cancer in children. The prognosis of patients with relapsed or metastatic disease remains poor. ERMS genomes show few recurrent mutations, suggesting that other molecular mechanisms such as epigenetic regulation might play a major role in driving ERMS tumor biology. In this study, we have demonstrated the diverse roles of histone deacetylases (HDACs) in the pathogenesis of ERMS by characterizing effects of HDAC inhibitors, trichostatin A (TSA) and suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA; also known as vorinostat) in vitro and in vivo. TSA and SAHA suppress ERMS tumor growth and progression by inducing myogenic differentiation as well as reducing the self-renewal and migratory capacity of ERMS cells. Differential expression profiling and pathway analysis revealed downregulation of key oncogenic pathways upon HDAC inhibitor treatment. By gain-of-function, loss-of-function, and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) studies, we show that Notch1- and EphrinB1-mediated pathways are regulated by HDACs to inhibit differentiation and enhance migratory capacity of ERMS cells, respectively. Our study demonstrates that aberrant HDAC activity plays a major role in ERMS pathogenesis. Druggable targets in the molecular pathways affected by HDAC inhibitors represent novel therapeutic options for ERMS patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael Phelps
- Department of Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Theo K. Bammler
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - James W. MacDonald
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Isaac Jenkins
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Eleanor Y. Chen
- Department of Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|