1
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Finlay JB, Ireland AS, Hawgood SB, Reyes T, Ko T, Olsen RR, Abi Hachem R, Jang DW, Bell D, Chan JM, Goldstein BJ, Oliver TG. Olfactory neuroblastoma mimics molecular heterogeneity and lineage trajectories of small-cell lung cancer. Cancer Cell 2024; 42:1086-1105.e13. [PMID: 38788720 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2024.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
The olfactory epithelium undergoes neuronal regeneration from basal stem cells and is susceptible to olfactory neuroblastoma (ONB), a rare tumor of unclear origins. Employing alterations in Rb1/Trp53/Myc (RPM), we establish a genetically engineered mouse model of high-grade metastatic ONB exhibiting a NEUROD1+ immature neuronal phenotype. We demonstrate that globose basal cells (GBCs) are a permissive cell of origin for ONB and that ONBs exhibit cell fate heterogeneity that mimics normal GBC developmental trajectories. ASCL1 loss in RPM ONB leads to emergence of non-neuronal histopathologies, including a POU2F3+ microvillar-like state. Similar to small-cell lung cancer (SCLC), mouse and human ONBs exhibit mutually exclusive NEUROD1 and POU2F3-like states, an immune-cold tumor microenvironment, intratumoral cell fate heterogeneity comprising neuronal and non-neuronal lineages, and cell fate plasticity-evidenced by barcode-based lineage tracing and single-cell transcriptomics. Collectively, our findings highlight conserved similarities between ONB and neuroendocrine tumors with significant implications for ONB classification and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- John B Finlay
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences, Duke University, Durham 27710, NC, USA
| | - Abbie S Ireland
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University, Durham 27710, NC, USA
| | - Sarah B Hawgood
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University, Durham 27710, NC, USA
| | - Tony Reyes
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University, Durham 27710, NC, USA; Department of Oncological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City 84112, UT, USA
| | - Tiffany Ko
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences, Duke University, Durham 27710, NC, USA
| | - Rachelle R Olsen
- Department of Oncological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City 84112, UT, USA
| | - Ralph Abi Hachem
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences, Duke University, Durham 27710, NC, USA
| | - David W Jang
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences, Duke University, Durham 27710, NC, USA
| | - Diana Bell
- Division of Anatomic Pathology, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte 91010, CA, USA
| | - Joseph M Chan
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial-Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City 10065, NY, USA
| | - Bradley J Goldstein
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences, Duke University, Durham 27710, NC, USA; Department of Neurobiology, Duke University, Durham 27710, NC, USA.
| | - Trudy G Oliver
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University, Durham 27710, NC, USA; Department of Oncological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City 84112, UT, USA.
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2
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Ma W, Zhou T, Song M, Liu J, Chen G, Zhan J, Ji L, Luo F, Gao X, Li P, Xia X, Huang Y, Zhang L. Genomic and transcriptomic profiling of combined small-cell lung cancer through microdissection: unveiling the transformational pathway of mixed subtype. J Transl Med 2024; 22:189. [PMID: 38383412 PMCID: PMC10880258 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-04968-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Combined small-cell lung carcinoma (cSCLC) represents a rare subtype of SCLC, the mechanisms governing the evolution of cancer genomes and their impact on the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) within distinct components of cSCLC remain elusive. METHODS Here, we conducted whole-exome and RNA sequencing on 32 samples from 16 cSCLC cases. RESULTS We found striking similarities between two components of cSCLC-LCC/LCNEC (SCLC combined with large-cell carcinoma/neuroendocrine) in terms of tumor mutation burden (TMB), tumor neoantigen burden (TNB), clonality structure, chromosomal instability (CIN), and low levels of immune cell infiltration. In contrast, the two components of cSCLC-ADC/SCC (SCLC combined with adenocarcinoma/squamous-cell carcinoma) exhibited a high level of tumor heterogeneity. Our investigation revealed that cSCLC originated from a monoclonal source, with two potential transformation modes: from SCLC to SCC (mode 1) and from ADC to SCLC (mode 2). Therefore, cSCLC might represent an intermediate state, potentially evolving into another histological tumor morphology through interactions between tumor and TIME surrounding it. Intriguingly, RB1 inactivation emerged as a factor influencing TIME heterogeneity in cSCLC, possibly through neoantigen depletion. CONCLUSIONS Together, these findings delved into the clonal origin and TIME heterogeneity of different components in cSCLC, shedding new light on the evolutionary processes underlying this enigmatic subtype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjuan Ma
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Ting Zhou
- Department of Medical Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng Road East, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Mengmeng Song
- Geneplus-Beijing Institute, Beijing, 102206, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiaqing Liu
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Gang Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng Road East, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianhua Zhan
- Department of Experimental Research, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Liyan Ji
- Geneplus-Beijing Institute, Beijing, 102206, People's Republic of China
| | - Fan Luo
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuan Gao
- Geneplus-Beijing Institute, Beijing, 102206, People's Republic of China
| | - Pansong Li
- Geneplus-Beijing Institute, Beijing, 102206, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuefeng Xia
- Geneplus-Beijing Institute, Beijing, 102206, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan Huang
- Department of Medical Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng Road East, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng Road East, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
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3
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Oser MG, MacPherson D, Oliver TG, Sage J, Park KS. Genetically-engineered mouse models of small cell lung cancer: the next generation. Oncogene 2024; 43:457-469. [PMID: 38191672 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-023-02929-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) remains the most fatal form of lung cancer, with patients in dire need of new and effective therapeutic approaches. Modeling SCLC in an immunocompetent host is essential for understanding SCLC pathogenesis and ultimately discovering and testing new experimental therapeutic strategies. Human SCLC is characterized by near universal genetic loss of the RB1 and TP53 tumor suppressor genes. Twenty years ago, the first genetically-engineered mouse model (GEMM) of SCLC was generated using conditional deletion of both Rb1 and Trp53 in the lungs of adult mice. Since then, several other GEMMs of SCLC have been developed coupling genomic alterations found in human SCLC with Rb1 and Trp53 deletion. Here we summarize how GEMMs of SCLC have contributed significantly to our understanding of the disease in the past two decades. We also review recent advances in modeling SCLC in mice that allow investigators to bypass limitations of the previous generation of GEMMs while studying new genes of interest in SCLC. In particular, CRISPR/Cas9-mediated somatic gene editing can accelerate how new genes of interest are functionally interrogated in SCLC tumorigenesis. Notably, the development of allograft models and precancerous precursor models from SCLC GEMMs provides complementary approaches to GEMMs to study tumor cell-immune microenvironment interactions and test new therapeutic strategies to enhance response to immunotherapy. Ultimately, the new generation of SCLC models can accelerate research and help develop new therapeutic strategies for SCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew G Oser
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA.
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
| | - David MacPherson
- Division of Human Biology, Fred Hutch Cancer Center, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA
| | - Trudy G Oliver
- Department of Pharmacology & Cancer Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27708, USA
| | - Julien Sage
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Kwon-Sik Park
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 22903, USA.
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4
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Canova S, Trevisan B, Abbate MI, Colonese F, Sala L, Baggi A, Bianchi SP, D'Agostino A, Cortinovis DL. Novel Therapeutic Options for Small Cell Lung Cancer. Curr Oncol Rep 2023; 25:1277-1294. [PMID: 37870696 PMCID: PMC10640463 DOI: 10.1007/s11912-023-01465-7] [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] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The aim of this review is to focus on the recent advances in the molecular knowledge of small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and potential promising new treatment strategies, like targeting the DNA damage pathway, epigenetics, angiogenesis, and oncogenic drivers. RECENT FINDINGS In the last few years, the addition of immunotherapy to chemotherapy has led to significant improvements in clinical outcomes in this complex neoplasia. Nevertheless, the prognosis remains dismal. Recently, numerous genomic alterations have been identified, and they may be useful to classify SCLC into different molecular subtypes (SCLC-A, SCLC-I, SCLC-Y, SCLC-P). SCLC accounts for 10-20% of all lung cancers, most patients have an extensive disease at the diagnosis, and it is characterized by poor prognosis. Despite the progresses in the knowledge of the disease, efficacious targeted treatments are still lacking. In the near future, the molecular characterisation of SCLC will be fundamental to find more effective treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Canova
- SC Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo Dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Benedetta Trevisan
- SC Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo Dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
- Department of Medical-Surgical Specialties, University of Brescia, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, Brescia, Italy
| | - Maria Ida Abbate
- SC Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo Dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Francesca Colonese
- SC Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo Dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Luca Sala
- SC Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo Dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Alice Baggi
- SC Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo Dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
- Department of Medical-Surgical Specialties, University of Brescia, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, Brescia, Italy
| | - Sofia Paola Bianchi
- Radiation Oncology Department, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo Dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna D'Agostino
- SC Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo Dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Diego Luigi Cortinovis
- SC Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo Dei Tintori, Monza, Italy.
- Medicine and Surgery Department, University of Milano Bicocca, Milan, Italy.
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5
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Ozen M, Lopez CF. Data-driven structural analysis of small cell lung cancer transcription factor network suggests potential subtype regulators and transition pathways. NPJ Syst Biol Appl 2023; 9:55. [PMID: 37907529 PMCID: PMC10618210 DOI: 10.1038/s41540-023-00316-2] [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: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is an aggressive disease and challenging to treat due to its mixture of transcriptional subtypes and subtype transitions. Transcription factor (TF) networks have been the focus of studies to identify SCLC subtype regulators via systems approaches. Yet, their structures, which can provide clues on subtype drivers and transitions, are barely investigated. Here, we analyze the structure of an SCLC TF network by using graph theory concepts and identify its structurally important components responsible for complex signal processing, called hubs. We show that the hubs of the network are regulators of different SCLC subtypes by analyzing first the unbiased network structure and then integrating RNA-seq data as weights assigned to each interaction. Data-driven analysis emphasizes MYC as a hub, consistent with recent reports. Furthermore, we hypothesize that the pathways connecting functionally distinct hubs may control subtype transitions and test this hypothesis via network simulations on a candidate pathway and observe subtype transition. Overall, structural analyses of complex networks can identify their functionally important components and pathways driving the network dynamics. Such analyses can be an initial step for generating hypotheses and can guide the discovery of target pathways whose perturbation may change the network dynamics phenotypically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa Ozen
- Dept. of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
- Multiscale Modeling Group, SI3, Altos Labs, Redwood City, CA, USA
| | - Carlos F Lopez
- Dept. of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA.
- Multiscale Modeling Group, SI3, Altos Labs, Redwood City, CA, USA.
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6
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Giaccone G, He Y. Current Knowledge of Small Cell Lung Cancer Transformation from Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. Semin Cancer Biol 2023:S1044-579X(23)00078-0. [PMID: 37244438 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2023.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer related death, and is divided into two major histological subtypes, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC). Histological transformation from NSCLC to SCLC has been reported as a mechanism of treatment resistance in patients who received tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) targeting EGFR, ALK and ROS1 or immunotherapies. The transformed histology could be due to therapy-induced lineage plasticity or clonal selection of pre-existing SCLC cells. Evidence supporting either mechanism exist in the literature. Here, we discuss potential mechanisms of transformation and review the current knowledge about cell of origin of NSCLC and SCLC. In addition, we summarize genomic alterations that are frequently observed in both "De novo" and transformed SCLC, such as TP53, RB1 and PIK3CA. We also discuss treatment options for transformed SCLC, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, TKIs, immunotherapy and anti-angiogenic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Giaccone
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, Weill-Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Yongfeng He
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, Weill-Cornell Medicine, New York, NY.
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7
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Chen J, Guanizo AC, Jakasekara WSN, Inampudi C, Luong Q, Garama DJ, Alamgeer M, Thakur N, DeVeer M, Ganju V, Watkins DN, Cain JE, Gough DJ. MYC drives platinum resistant SCLC that is overcome by the dual PI3K-HDAC inhibitor fimepinostat. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2023; 42:100. [PMID: 37098540 PMCID: PMC10131464 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02678-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 04/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is an aggressive neuroendocrine cancer with an appalling overall survival of less than 5% (Zimmerman et al. J Thor Oncol 14:768-83, 2019). Patients typically respond to front line platinum-based doublet chemotherapy, but almost universally relapse with drug resistant disease. Elevated MYC expression is common in SCLC and has been associated with platinum resistance. This study evaluates the capacity of MYC to drive platinum resistance and through screening identifies a drug capable of reducing MYC expression and overcoming resistance. METHODS Elevated MYC expression following the acquisition of platinum resistance in vitro and in vivo was assessed. Moreover, the capacity of enforced MYC expression to drive platinum resistance was defined in SCLC cell lines and in a genetically engineered mouse model that expresses MYC specifically in lung tumors. High throughput drug screening was used to identify drugs able to kill MYC-expressing, platinum resistant cell lines. The capacity of this drug to treat SCLC was defined in vivo in both transplant models using cell lines and patient derived xenografts and in combination with platinum and etoposide chemotherapy in an autochthonous mouse model of platinum resistant SCLC. RESULTS MYC expression is elevated following the acquisition of platinum resistance and constitutively high MYC expression drives platinum resistance in vitro and in vivo. We show that fimepinostat decreases MYC expression and that it is an effective single agent treatment for SCLC in vitro and in vivo. Indeed, fimepinostat is as effective as platinum-etoposide treatment in vivo. Importantly, when combined with platinum and etoposide, fimepinostat achieves a significant increase in survival. CONCLUSIONS MYC is a potent driver of platinum resistance in SCLC that is effectively treated with fimepinostat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmine Chen
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic, 3168, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic, 3168, Australia
| | - Aleks C Guanizo
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic, 3168, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic, 3168, Australia
| | - W Samantha N Jakasekara
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic, 3168, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic, 3168, Australia
| | - Chaitanya Inampudi
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic, 3168, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic, 3168, Australia
| | - Quinton Luong
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic, 3168, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic, 3168, Australia
| | - Daniel J Garama
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic, 3168, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic, 3168, Australia
| | - Muhammad Alamgeer
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic, 3168, Australia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Monash Health, Clayton, Australia
- School of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Nishant Thakur
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic, 3168, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic, 3168, Australia
| | - Michael DeVeer
- Monash Biomedical Imaging Facility, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Vinod Ganju
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic, 3168, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic, 3168, Australia
| | - D Neil Watkins
- Research Institute in Oncology and Hematology, Cancer Care Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, R3E 0V9, Canada
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, R3T 2N2, Canada
| | - Jason E Cain
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic, 3168, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic, 3168, Australia
| | - Daniel J Gough
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic, 3168, Australia.
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Vic, 3168, Australia.
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8
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Ozen M, Lopez CF. Data-driven structural analysis of Small Cell Lung Cancer transcription factor network suggests potential subtype regulators and transition pathways. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.04.01.535226. [PMID: 37066351 PMCID: PMC10104011 DOI: 10.1101/2023.04.01.535226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC) is an aggressive disease and challenging to treat due to its mixture of transcriptional subtypes and subtype transitions. Transcription factor (TF) networks have been the focus of studies to identify SCLC subtype regulators via systems approaches. Yet, their structures, which can provide clues on subtype drivers and transitions, are barely investigated. Here, we analyze the structure of an SCLC TF network by using graph theory concepts and identify its structurally important components responsible for complex signal processing, called hubs. We show that the hubs of the network are regulators of different SCLC subtypes by analyzing first the unbiased network structure and then integrating RNA-seq data as weights assigned to each interaction. Data-driven analysis emphasizes MYC as a hub, consistent with recent reports. Furthermore, we hypothesize that the pathways connecting functionally distinct hubs may control subtype transitions and test this hypothesis via network simulations on a candidate pathway and observe subtype transition. Overall, structural analyses of complex networks can identify their functionally important components and pathways driving the network dynamics. Such analyses can be an initial step for generating hypotheses and can guide the discovery of target pathways whose perturbation may change the network dynamics phenotypically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa Ozen
- Dept. of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37212, USA
- Currently at: Computational Innovation Hub, Multiscale Modeling Group, Altos Labs, Redwood City, CA 94065, USA
| | - Carlos F. Lopez
- Dept. of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37212, USA
- Currently at: Computational Innovation Hub, Multiscale Modeling Group, Altos Labs, Redwood City, CA 94065, USA
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9
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Zhao MH, Liu W, Zhang X, Zhang Y, Luo B. Epstein-Barr virus miR-BART2-5p and miR-BART11-5p regulate cell proliferation, apoptosis, and migration by targeting RB and p21 in gastric carcinoma. J Med Virol 2023; 95:e28338. [PMID: 36418188 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.28338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) was the first tumor virus discovered in humans and can cause various types of tumors. Molecular classification suggests that EBV-associated gastric cancer (EBVaGC) is a unique subtype of gastric cancer.EBV was also the first virus found to encode its own microRNAs. However, the functions of many miRNAs remain unknown. This study investigated the roles and targets of miR-BART2-5p (BART2-5p) and miR-BART11-5p (BART11-5p) in EBVaGC. The expression of RB and p21 in EBVaGC and EBV negative GC (EBVnGC) cells was evaluated by western blotting. Expression of BART2-5p and BART11-5p in EBVaGC cells was evaluated by droplet digital PCR. The effects of BART2-5p or BART11-5p and their potential mechanisms were further investigated using cell counting kit-8, colony formation assay, flow cytometry analysis, and transwell assay. BART2-5p and BART11-5p were abundantly expressed and RB and p21 were downregulated in EBVaGC cells. BART2-5p regulates RB and p21 expression by directly targeting them. BART11-5p regulates RB expression by directly targeting RB. Both BART2-5p and BART11-5p promoted proliferation and migration of gastric cancer cells, while inhibiting apoptosis and promoting S-phase arrest of the cell cycle. Thus, BART2-5p and BART11-5p play important roles in promoting proliferation and migration, and inhibiting apoptosis in EBVaGC by targeting RB and p21, thus providing new potential therapeutic targets for EBVaGC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-He Zhao
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Wen Liu
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xing Zhang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.,Department of Clinical Laboratory, Zibo Central Hospital, Zibo, China
| | - Bing Luo
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
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10
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Luo H, Shan J, Zhang H, Song G, Li Q, Xu CX. Targeting the epigenetic processes to enhance antitumor immunity in small cell lung cancer. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 86:960-970. [PMID: 35189321 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2022.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Dysregulation of the epigenetic processes, such as DNA methylation, histone modifications, and modulation of chromatin states, drives aberrant transcription that promotes initiation and progression of small cell lung cancer (SCLC). Accumulating evidence has proven crucial roles of epigenetic machinery in modulating immune cell functions and antitumor immune response. Epigenetics-targeting drugs such as DNA methyltransferase inhibitors, histone deacetylase inhibitors, and histone methyltransferase inhibitors involved in preclinical and clinical trials may trigger antitumor immunity. Herein, we summarize the impact of epigenetic processes on tumor immunogenicity and antitumor immune cell functions in SCLC. Furthermore, we review current clinical trials of epigenetic therapy against SCLC and the mechanisms of epigenetic inhibitors to boost antitumor immunity. Eventually, we discuss the opportunities of developing therapeutic regimens combining epigenetic agents with immunotherapy for SCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Luo
- College of Bioengineering, Key Lab of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China; School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China; Cancer Center, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing 400042, China.
| | - Jinlu Shan
- Cancer Center, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing 400042, China.
| | - Hong Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401120, China.
| | - Guanbin Song
- College of Bioengineering, Key Lab of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China.
| | - Qing Li
- College of Bioengineering, Key Lab of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China.
| | - Cheng-Xiong Xu
- School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China.
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Keogh A, Finn S, Radonic T. Emerging Biomarkers and the Changing Landscape of Small Cell Lung Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14153772. [PMID: 35954436 PMCID: PMC9367597 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14153772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is an aggressive cancer representing 15% of all lung cancers. Unlike other types of lung cancer, treatments for SCLC have changed very little in the past 20 years and therefore, the survival rate remains low. This is due, in part, to the lack of understanding of the biological basis of this disease and the previous idea that all SCLCs are the same. Multiple recent studies have identified that SCLCs have varying biological activity and can be divided into four different groups. The advantage of this is that each of these four groups responds differently to new treatments, which hopefully will dramatically improve survival. Additionally, the aim of these new treatments is to specifically target these biological differences in SCLC so normal/non cancer cells are unaffected, leading to decreased side effects and a better quality of life. There is still a lot unknown about SCLC, but these new findings offer a glimmer of hope for patients in the future. Abstract Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is a high-grade neuroendocrine malignancy with an aggressive behavior and dismal prognosis. 5-year overall survival remains a disappointing 7%. Genomically, SCLCs are homogeneous compared to non-small cell lung cancers and are characterized almost always by functional inactivation of RB1 and TP53 with no actionable mutations. Additionally, SCLCs histologically appear uniform. Thus, SCLCs are currently managed as a single disease with platinum-based chemotherapy remaining the cornerstone of treatment. Recent studies have identified expression of dominant transcriptional signatures which may permit classification of SCLCs into four biologically distinct subtypes, namely, SCLC-A, SCLC-N, SCLC-P, and SCLC-I. These groups are readily detectable by immunohistochemistry and also have potential predictive utility for emerging therapies, including PARPi, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and DLL3 targeted therapies. In contrast with their histology, studies have identified that SCLCs display both inter- and intra-tumoral heterogeneity. Identification of subpopulations of cells with high expression of PLCG2 has been linked with risk of metastasis. SCLCs also display subtype switching under therapy pressure which may contribute furthermore to metastatic ability and chemoresistance. In this review, we summarize the recent developments in the understanding of the biology of SCLCs, and discuss the potential diagnostic, prognostic, and treatment opportunities the four proposed subtypes may present for the future. We also discuss the emerging evidence of tumor heterogeneity and plasticity in SCLCs which have been implicated in metastasis and acquired therapeutic resistance seen in these aggressive tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Keogh
- Department of Histopathology, St. James’s Hospital, D08 NHY1 Dublin, Ireland;
- Department of Histopathology and Morbid Anatomy, Trinity Translational Medicine Institute, Trinity College Dublin, D08 HD53 Dublin, Ireland
- Correspondence:
| | - Stephen Finn
- Department of Histopathology, St. James’s Hospital, D08 NHY1 Dublin, Ireland;
- Department of Histopathology and Morbid Anatomy, Trinity Translational Medicine Institute, Trinity College Dublin, D08 HD53 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Teodora Radonic
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VUMC, University Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
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Abstract
Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is a rapidly growing, highly metastatic, and relatively immune-cold lung cancer subtype. Historically viewed in the laboratory and clinic as a single disease, new discoveries suggest that SCLC comprises multiple molecular subsets. Expression of MYC family members and lineage-related transcription factors ASCL1, NEUROD1, and POU2F3 (and, in some studies, YAP1) define unique molecular states that have been associated with distinct responses to a variety of therapies. However, SCLC tumors exhibit a high degree of intratumoral heterogeneity, with recent studies suggesting the existence of tumor cell plasticity and phenotypic switching between subtype states. While SCLC plasticity is correlated with, and likely drives, therapeutic resistance, the mechanisms underlying this plasticity are still largely unknown. Subtype states are also associated with immune-related gene expression, which likely impacts response to immune checkpoint blockade and may reveal novel targets for alternative immunotherapeutic approaches. In this review, we synthesize recent discoveries on the mechanisms of SCLC plasticity and how these processes may impinge on antitumor immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate D Sutherland
- Australian Cancer Research Foundation (ACRF) Cancer Biology and Stem Cells Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Abbie S Ireland
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, USA
| | - Trudy G Oliver
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, USA
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