1
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Ledesma DA, Marques-Piubelli ML, Li-Ning-Tapia E, Hudgens C, Gu J, Lazcano R, Casavilca-Zambrano S, Castillo M, Davies MA, Hwu WJ, Aung PP, Giubellino A, Curry JL, Torres-Cabala C. Apoptosis Pathway-Associated Proteins Are Frequently Expressed in Melanoma: A Study of 32 Cases With Focus on Acral Lentiginous Melanoma. Am J Dermatopathol 2024; 46:410-415. [PMID: 38718197 PMCID: PMC11178464 DOI: 10.1097/dad.0000000000002635] [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] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Acral lentiginous melanoma (ALM) is an aggressive type of cutaneous melanoma (CM) that arises on palms, soles, and nail units. ALM is rare in White population, but it is relatively more frequent in dark-skinned populations. There is an unmet need to develop new personalized and more effective treatments strategies for ALM. Increased expression of antiapoptotic proteins (ie, BCL2, MCL1) has been shown to contribute to tumorigenesis and therapeutic resistance in multiple tumor types and has been observed in a subset of ALM and mucosal melanoma cell lines in vivo and in vitro. However, little is known about their expression and clinical significance in patients with ALM. Thus, we assessed protein expression of BCL2, MCL1, BIM, and BRAF V600E by immunohistochemistry in 32 melanoma samples from White and Hispanic populations, including ALM and non-ALM (NALM). BCL2, MCL1, and BIM were expressed in both ALM and NALM tumors, and no significant differences in expression of any of these proteins were detected between the groups, in our relatively small cohort. There were no significant associations between protein expression and BRAF V600E status, overall survival, or ethnicity. In summary, ALM and NALM demonstrate frequent expressions of apoptosis-related proteins BCL2, MCL1, and BIM. Our findings suggest that patients with melanoma, including ALM, may be potential candidates for apoptosis-directed therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debora A Ledesma
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Mario L Marques-Piubelli
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Elsa Li-Ning-Tapia
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Courtney Hudgens
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Jun Gu
- School of Health Professions, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Rossana Lazcano
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Sandro Casavilca-Zambrano
- Department of Pathology, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Neoplasicas (INEN), Lima, and Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Huánuco, Huánuco, Peru (SCZ)
| | - Miluska Castillo
- Department of Pathology, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Neoplasicas (INEN), Lima, and Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Huánuco, Huánuco, Peru (SCZ)
| | - Michael A Davies
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Wen-Jen Hwu
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Phyu P Aung
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Alessio Giubellino
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN; and
| | - Jonathan L Curry
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
- Department of Dermatology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Carlos Torres-Cabala
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
- Department of Dermatology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
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2
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Nwosu GO, Ross DM, Powell JA, Pitson SM. Venetoclax therapy and emerging resistance mechanisms in acute myeloid leukaemia. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:413. [PMID: 38866760 PMCID: PMC11169396 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06810-7] [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] [Received: 03/21/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) is a highly aggressive and devastating malignancy of the bone marrow and blood. For decades, intensive chemotherapy has been the frontline treatment for AML but has yielded only poor patient outcomes as exemplified by a 5-year survival rate of < 30%, even in younger adults. As knowledge of the molecular underpinnings of AML has advanced, so too has the development new strategies with potential to improve the treatment of AML patients. To date the most promising of these targeted agents is the BH3-mimetic venetoclax which in combination with standard of care therapies, has manageable non-haematological toxicity and exhibits impressive efficacy. However, approximately 30% of AML patients fail to respond to venetoclax-based regimens and almost all treatment responders eventually relapse. Here, we review the emerging mechanisms of intrinsic and acquired venetoclax resistance in AML and highlight recent efforts to identify novel strategies to overcome resistance to venetoclax.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gus O Nwosu
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - David M Ross
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Department of Haematology, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Central Adelaide Local Health Network, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Department of Haematology, Flinders University and Medical Centre, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Jason A Powell
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA, Australia.
- Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.
| | - Stuart M Pitson
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA, Australia.
- Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.
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3
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Mukherjee N, Katsnelson E, Brunetti TM, Michel K, Couts KL, Lambert KA, Robinson WA, McCarter MD, Norris DA, Tobin RP, Shellman YG. MCL1 inhibition targets Myeloid Derived Suppressors Cells, promotes antitumor immunity and enhances the efficacy of immune checkpoint blockade. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:198. [PMID: 38459020 PMCID: PMC10923779 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06524-w] [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: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are now the first-line treatment for patients with advanced melanoma. Despite promising clinical results, many patients fail to respond to these therapies. BH3 mimetics, a novel class of small molecule inhibitors that bind and inhibit anti-apoptotic members of the BCL2 family proteins such as BCL2 or MCL1, have been very successful in treating hematologic malignancies. However, there are limited studies on the immunomodulatory role of the BH3 mimetics. Several factors contribute to ICI resistance including myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) that exert immunosuppressive effects through direct and indirect inhibition of antitumor immunity. Thus, targeting MDSCs to enhance antitumor immunity has the potential to enhance the efficacy of ICIs. In this study, we show that the MCL1 inhibitor S64315 reduces melanoma tumor growth in an immune cell-dependent manner in mice. Specifically, S64315 enhances antitumor immunity by reducing MDSC frequency and by promoting the activity of CD8+T cells. Additionally, human MDSCs are 10 times more sensitive to S64315 than cutaneous melanoma lines. Further, we found that a higher expression of MCL1 is associated with poor survival for patients treated with anti-PD-1. Finally, combining S64315 and anti-PD-1 significantly slowed tumor growth compared to either agent alone. Together, this proof-of-concept study demonstrates the potential of combining an MCL1 inhibitor with anti-PD-1 in the treatment of melanoma. It justifies the further development of next generation MCL1 inhibitors to improve efficacy of ICIs in treating malignant melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nabanita Mukherjee
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, School of Medicine, Department of Dermatology, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Elizabeth Katsnelson
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, School of Medicine, Division of Surgical Oncology, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Tonya M Brunetti
- Department of Immunology & Microbiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
- University of Colorado Cancer Center, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Kylie Michel
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, School of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Kasey L Couts
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, School of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Karoline A Lambert
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, School of Medicine, Department of Dermatology, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - William A Robinson
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, School of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Martin D McCarter
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, School of Medicine, Division of Surgical Oncology, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - David A Norris
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, School of Medicine, Department of Dermatology, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Dermatology Section, Denver, CO, 80220, USA
| | - Richard P Tobin
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, School of Medicine, Division of Surgical Oncology, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
| | - Yiqun G Shellman
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, School of Medicine, Department of Dermatology, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Gates Center for Regenerative Medicine, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
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4
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Wang L, Xi C, Liu R, Ye T, Xiang N, Deng J, Li H. Dual targeting of Mcl-1 and Bcl-2 to overcome chemoresistance in cervical and colon cancer. Anticancer Drugs 2024; 35:219-226. [PMID: 37948336 DOI: 10.1097/cad.0000000000001553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
After an initial positive response to chemotherapy, cancer patients often become resistant and experience relapse. Our previous research identified eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E (eIF4E) as a crucial target to overcome chemoresistance. In this study, we delved further into the role and therapeutic potential of myeloid cell leukemia 1 (Mcl-1), an eIF4E-mediated target, in chemoresistance. We showed that the levels of phosphor and total eIF4E, as well as Mcl-1, were elevated in chemoresistant cervical but not colon cancer cells. Mcl-1 inhibitor S64315 decreased Mcl-1 levels in chemoresistant cancer cells, regardless of Mcl-1 upregulation, decreased viability in chemoresistant cancer cells and acted synergistically with chemotherapy drugs. The combined inhibition of Mcl-1 and B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), employing both genetic and pharmacological approaches, led to a markedly more substantial decrease in viability compared with the inhibition of either target individually. The combination of S64315 and Bcl-2 inhibitors reduced tumor growth in chemoresistant cervical and colon cancer models without causing general toxicity in mice. This combination also prolonged overall survival compared with using S64315 or venetoclax alone. Our research highlights the therapeutic potential of inhibiting Mcl-1 and Bcl-2 simultaneously in chemoresistant cancers and provides a rationale for initiating clinical trials to investigate the combination of S64315 and venetoclax for the treatment of advanced colon and cervical cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
| | - Changlei Xi
- Department of Anorectal Surgery, Jingzhou Hospital Affiliated to Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Rong Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
| | | | - Ning Xiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
| | | | - Hui Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
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5
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Arnett E, Pahari S, Leopold Wager CM, Hernandez E, Bonifacio JR, Lumbreras M, Renshaw C, Montoya MJ, Opferman JT, Schlesinger LS. Combination of MCL-1 and BCL-2 inhibitors is a promising approach for a host-directed therapy for tuberculosis. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 168:115738. [PMID: 37864894 PMCID: PMC10841846 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB) accounts for 1.6 million deaths annually and over 25% of deaths due to antimicrobial resistance. Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.tb) drives MCL-1 expression (family member of anti-apoptotic BCL-2 proteins) to limit apoptosis and grow intracellularly in human macrophages. The feasibility of re-purposing specific MCL-1 and BCL-2 inhibitors to limit M.tb growth, using inhibitors that are in clinical trials and FDA-approved for cancer treatment has not be tested previously. We show that specifically inhibiting MCL-1 and BCL-2 induces apoptosis of M.tb-infected macrophages, and markedly reduces M.tb growth in human and murine macrophages, and in a pre-clinical model of human granulomas. MCL-1 and BCL-2 inhibitors limit growth of drug resistant and susceptible M.tb in macrophages and act in additive fashion with the antibiotics isoniazid and rifampicin. This exciting work uncovers targeting the intrinsic apoptosis pathway as a promising approach for TB host-directed therapy. Since safety and activity studies are underway in cancer clinics for MCL-1 and BCL-2 inhibitors, we expect that re-purposing them for TB treatment should translate more readily and rapidly to the clinic. Thus, the work supports further development of this host-directed therapy approach to augment current TB treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eusondia Arnett
- Host Pathogen Interactions Program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX 78227, USA.
| | - Susanta Pahari
- Host Pathogen Interactions Program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX 78227, USA
| | - Chrissy M Leopold Wager
- Host Pathogen Interactions Program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX 78227, USA
| | - Elizabeth Hernandez
- Host Pathogen Interactions Program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX 78227, USA
| | - Jordan R Bonifacio
- Host Pathogen Interactions Program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX 78227, USA
| | - Miranda Lumbreras
- Host Pathogen Interactions Program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX 78227, USA
| | - Charles Renshaw
- Host Pathogen Interactions Program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX 78227, USA
| | - Maria J Montoya
- Host Pathogen Interactions Program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX 78227, USA
| | | | - Larry S Schlesinger
- Host Pathogen Interactions Program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX 78227, USA.
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6
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Miebach L, Melo‐Zainzinger G, Freund E, Clemen R, Cecchini AL, Bekeschus S. Medical Gas Plasma Technology Combines with Antimelanoma Therapies and Promotes Immune-Checkpoint Therapy Responses. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2303183. [PMID: 37541287 PMCID: PMC10558686 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202303183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
Strategies to improve activity and selectivity are major goals in oncological drug development. Medical gas plasma therapy has been subject to intense research in dermatooncology recently. Based on partial gas ionization, this approach is exceptional in generating a variety of reactive oxygen species simultaneously that can be applied locally at the tumor side. It is hypothesized that combined gas plasma treatment can potentiate drug responses in the treatment of melanoma. Using a plasma jet approved as medical device in Europe, a systematic screening of 46 mitochondria-targeted drugs identifies five agents synergizing in vitro and in vivo. Increased intratumoral leucocyte infiltration points to immunomodulatory aspects of the treatment, motivating to investigate responses to immune checkpoint blockade in combination with plasma. Tumor growth is monitored based on bioluminescent imaging, and single-cell suspensions are retrieved from each tumor to characterize tumor-infiltrating leucocytes using multicolor flow cytometry. Gene expression profiling is done using a validated NanoString panel targeting 770 genes specifically designed for immuno-oncological research. Cell type abundancies are characterized from bulk RNA samples using the CIBERSORT computational framework. Collectively, the results indicate that local application of medical gas plasma technology synergizes with mitochondria-targeted drugs and anti-PD1 checkpoint therapy in treating melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lea Miebach
- Department of General, Thoracic, Vascular, and Visceral SurgeryGreifswald University Medical Center17475GreifswaldGermany
- ZIK plasmatisLeibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP)17489GreifswaldGermany
| | - Gabriella Melo‐Zainzinger
- ZIK plasmatisLeibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP)17489GreifswaldGermany
- Cancer Research UnitBoehringer IngelheimVienna1121Austria
| | - Eric Freund
- Department of General, Thoracic, Vascular, and Visceral SurgeryGreifswald University Medical Center17475GreifswaldGermany
- ZIK plasmatisLeibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP)17489GreifswaldGermany
- Department of NeurosurgeryWien University Medical CenterVienna1090Austria
| | - Ramona Clemen
- ZIK plasmatisLeibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP)17489GreifswaldGermany
| | | | - Sander Bekeschus
- ZIK plasmatisLeibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP)17489GreifswaldGermany
- Clinic for Dermatology and VenerologyRostock University Medical Center18057RostockGermany
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7
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Weidenauer K, Schmidt C, Rohde C, Pauli C, Blank MF, Heid D, Waclawiczek A, Corbacioglu A, Göllner S, Lotze M, Vierbaum L, Renders S, Krijgsveld J, Raffel S, Sauer T, Trumpp A, Pabst C, Müller-Tidow C, Janssen M. The ribosomal protein S6 kinase alpha-1 (RPS6KA1) induces resistance to venetoclax/azacitidine in acute myeloid leukemia. Leukemia 2023; 37:1611-1625. [PMID: 37414921 PMCID: PMC10400424 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-023-01951-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
Venetoclax/azacitidine combination therapy is effective in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and tolerable for older, multimorbid patients. Despite promising response rates, many patients do not achieve sustained remission or are upfront refractory. Identification of resistance mechanisms and additional therapeutic targets represent unmet clinical needs. By using a genome-wide CRISPR/Cas9 library screen targeting 18,053 protein- coding genes in a human AML cell line, various genes conferring resistance to combined venetoclax/azacitidine treatment were identified. The ribosomal protein S6 kinase A1 (RPS6KA1) was among the most significantly depleted sgRNA-genes in venetoclax/azacitidine- treated AML cells. Addition of the RPS6KA1 inhibitor BI-D1870 to venetoclax/azacitidine decreased proliferation and colony forming potential compared to venetoclax/azacitidine alone. Furthermore, BI-D1870 was able to completely restore the sensitivity of OCI-AML2 cells with acquired resistance to venetoclax/azacitidine. Analysis of cell surface markers revealed that RPS6KA1 inhibition efficiently targeted monocytic blast subclones as a potential source of relapse upon venetoclax/azacitidine treatment. Taken together, our results suggest RPS6KA1 as mediator of resistance towards venetoclax/azacitidine and additional RPS6KA1 inhibition as strategy to prevent or overcome resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Weidenauer
- Department of Internal Medicine V, Hematology, Oncology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- University of Heidelberg Medical Faculty, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christina Schmidt
- Department of Internal Medicine V, Hematology, Oncology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- University of Heidelberg Medical Faculty, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christian Rohde
- Department of Internal Medicine V, Hematology, Oncology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Molecular Medicine Partnership Unit (MMPU), University of Heidelberg and European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Cornelius Pauli
- Department of Internal Medicine V, Hematology, Oncology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Division of Mechanisms Regulating Gene Expression, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Maximilian F Blank
- Department of Internal Medicine V, Hematology, Oncology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Molecular Medicine Partnership Unit (MMPU), University of Heidelberg and European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Heidelberg, Germany
- Division of Proteomics of Stem Cells and Cancer, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Daniel Heid
- Department of Internal Medicine V, Hematology, Oncology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Molecular Medicine Partnership Unit (MMPU), University of Heidelberg and European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Alexander Waclawiczek
- Division of Stem Cells and Cancer, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, Heidelberg, Germany
- Heidelberg Institute for Stem Cell Technology and Experimental Medicine (HI-STEM gGmbH), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Anika Corbacioglu
- Department of Internal Medicine V, Hematology, Oncology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- University of Heidelberg Medical Faculty, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Stefanie Göllner
- Department of Internal Medicine V, Hematology, Oncology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Michelle Lotze
- Department of Internal Medicine V, Hematology, Oncology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Lisa Vierbaum
- Department of Internal Medicine V, Hematology, Oncology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Simon Renders
- Department of Internal Medicine V, Hematology, Oncology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Division of Stem Cells and Cancer, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, Heidelberg, Germany
- Heidelberg Institute for Stem Cell Technology and Experimental Medicine (HI-STEM gGmbH), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jeroen Krijgsveld
- University of Heidelberg Medical Faculty, Heidelberg, Germany
- Division of Proteomics of Stem Cells and Cancer, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Simon Raffel
- Department of Internal Medicine V, Hematology, Oncology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Tim Sauer
- Department of Internal Medicine V, Hematology, Oncology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Andreas Trumpp
- Division of Stem Cells and Cancer, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, Heidelberg, Germany
- Heidelberg Institute for Stem Cell Technology and Experimental Medicine (HI-STEM gGmbH), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Caroline Pabst
- Department of Internal Medicine V, Hematology, Oncology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Molecular Medicine Partnership Unit (MMPU), University of Heidelberg and European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Carsten Müller-Tidow
- Department of Internal Medicine V, Hematology, Oncology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Molecular Medicine Partnership Unit (MMPU), University of Heidelberg and European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Maike Janssen
- Department of Internal Medicine V, Hematology, Oncology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
- Molecular Medicine Partnership Unit (MMPU), University of Heidelberg and European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Heidelberg, Germany.
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8
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Potter DS, Du R, Bohl SR, Chow KH, Ligon KL, Bueno R, Letai A. Dynamic BH3 profiling identifies pro-apoptotic drug combinations for the treatment of malignant pleural mesothelioma. Nat Commun 2023; 14:2897. [PMID: 37210412 PMCID: PMC10199949 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-38552-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) has relatively ineffective first/second-line therapy for advanced disease and only 18% five-year survival for early disease. Drug-induced mitochondrial priming measured by dynamic BH3 profiling identifies efficacious drugs in multiple disease settings. We use high throughput dynamic BH3 profiling (HTDBP) to identify drug combinations that prime primary MPM cells derived from patient tumors, which also prime patient derived xenograft (PDX) models. A navitoclax (BCL-xL/BCL-2/BCL-w antagonist) and AZD8055 (mTORC1/2 inhibitor) combination demonstrates efficacy in vivo in an MPM PDX model, validating HTDBP as an approach to identify efficacious drug combinations. Mechanistic investigation reveals AZD8055 treatment decreases MCL-1 protein levels, increases BIM protein levels, and increases MPM mitochondrial dependence on BCL-xL, which is exploited by navitoclax. Navitoclax treatment increases dependency on MCL-1 and increases BIM protein levels. These findings demonstrate that HTDBP can be used as a functional precision medicine tool to rationally construct combination drug regimens in MPM and other cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle S Potter
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Ruochen Du
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Stephan R Bohl
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Kin-Hoe Chow
- Department of Oncologic Pathology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
- Center for Patient Derived Models, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Keith L Ligon
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
- Department of Oncologic Pathology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
- Center for Patient Derived Models, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
- Cancer Biology Program, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
| | - Raphael Bueno
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
- Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Anthony Letai
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, 02215, USA.
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA.
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9
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Opydo M, Mlyczyńska A, Mlyczyńska E, Rak A, Kolaczkowska E. Synergistic Action of MCL-1 Inhibitor with BCL-2/BCL-XL or MAPK Pathway Inhibitors Enhances Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cell Apoptosis and Differentiation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087180. [PMID: 37108344 PMCID: PMC10138770 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087180] [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: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a hematological malignancy characterized by excessive proliferation of abnormal myeloid precursors accompanied by a differentiation block and inhibition of apoptosis. Increased expression of an anti-apoptotic MCL-1 protein was shown to be critical for the sustained survival and expansion of AML cells. Therefore, herein, we examined the pro-apoptotic and pro-differentiating effects of S63845, a specific inhibitor of MCL-1, in a single-agent treatment and in combination with BCL-2/BCL-XL inhibitor, ABT-737, in two AML cell lines: HL-60 and ML-1. Additionally, we determined whether inhibition of the MAPK pathway had an impact on the sensitivity of AML cells to S63845. To assess AML cells' apoptosis and differentiation, in vitro studies were performed using PrestoBlue assay, Coulter electrical impedance method, flow cytometry, light microscopy and Western blot techniques. S63845 caused a concentration-dependent decrease in the viability of HL-60 and ML-1 cells and increased the percentage of apoptotic cells. Combined treatment with S63845 and ABT-737 or MAPK pathway inhibitor enhanced apoptosis but also induced differentiation of tested cells, as well as altering the expression of the MCL-1 protein. Taken together, our data provide the rationale for further studies regarding the use of MCL-1 inhibitor in combination with other pro-survival protein inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Małgorzata Opydo
- Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Anna Mlyczyńska
- Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Ewa Mlyczyńska
- Laboratory of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
- Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Jagiellonian University, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Rak
- Laboratory of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Elzbieta Kolaczkowska
- Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
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10
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Sarkar A, Paul A, Banerjee T, Maji A, Saha S, Bishayee A, Maity TK. Therapeutic advancements in targeting BCL-2 family proteins by epigenetic regulators, natural, and synthetic agents in cancer. Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 944:175588. [PMID: 36791843 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.175588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Revised: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is amongst the deadliest and most disruptive disorders, having a much higher death rate than other diseases worldwide. Human cancer rates continue to rise, thereby posing the most significant concerns for medical health professionals. In the last two decades, researchers have gone past several milestones in tackling cancer while gaining insight into the role of apoptosis in cancer or targeting various biomarker tools for prognosis and diagnosis. Apoptosis which is still a topic full of complexities, can be controlled considerably by B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL-2) and its family members. Therefore, targeting proteins of this family to prevent tumorigenesis, is essential to focus on the pharmacological features of the anti-apoptotic and pro-apoptotic members, which will help to develop and manage this disorder. This review deals with the advancements of various epigenetic regulators to target BCL-2 family proteins, including the mechanism of several microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs). Similarly, a rise in natural and synthetic molecules' research over the last two decades has allowed us to acquire insights into understanding and managing the transcriptional alterations that have led to apoptosis and treating various neoplastic diseases. Furthermore, several inhibitors targeting anti-apoptotic proteins and inducers or activators targeting pro-apoptotic proteins in preclinical and clinical stages have been summarized. Overall, agonistic and antagonistic mechanisms of BCL-2 family proteins conciliated by epigenetic regulators, natural and synthetic agents have proven to be an excellent choice in developing cancer therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnab Sarkar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, West Bengal, Kolkata, 700032, India.
| | - Abhik Paul
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, West Bengal, Kolkata, 700032, India.
| | - Tanmoy Banerjee
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, West Bengal, Kolkata, 700032, India.
| | - Avik Maji
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, West Bengal, Kolkata, 700032, India.
| | - Sanjukta Saha
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, West Bengal, Kolkata, 700032, India.
| | - Anupam Bishayee
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, FL, 34211, USA.
| | - Tapan Kumar Maity
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, West Bengal, Kolkata, 700032, India.
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11
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Tagoug A, Safra I. The Impact of Panobinostat on Cell Death in Combination with S63845 in Multiple Myeloma Cells. Indian J Hematol Blood Transfus 2023; 39:245-257. [PMID: 37006981 PMCID: PMC10064410 DOI: 10.1007/s12288-022-01584-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple myeloma is a B cell neoplasm characterized by bone marrow infiltration with malignant plasma cells. The Overexpression of histone deacetylase prevents apoptosis of myeloma cells by different mechanisms. The combination of Panobinostat with a BH3 mimetic, S63845, has demonstrated significant antitumor activity in multiple myeloma. We examined the impact of Panobinostat combined with MCL-1 inhibitor on multiple myeloma cell lines in vivo and in vitro as well as on fresh human myeloma cells. Our study shows that MCL-1 remains a major resistant factor to cell death induced by Panobinostat. Therefore, the inhibition of the MCL-1 member is considered a therapeutic strategy to kill the myeloma cells. We examined that the MCL-1 inhibitor (S63845) enhanced the cytotoxic effect of Panobinostat and decreased the viability of human cell lines and primary myeloma patient cells. Mechanistically, Panobinostat/S63845 control cell death via an intrinsic pathway. Given these data, the combination can be a promising therapeutic target for myeloma patients and should be further explored in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arwa Tagoug
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Hematology, LR6IPT07, Pasteur Institute of Tunis, 13 Place Pasteur BP 74, 1002 Tunis Belvedere, Tunisia
- University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Ines Safra
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Hematology, LR6IPT07, Pasteur Institute of Tunis, 13 Place Pasteur BP 74, 1002 Tunis Belvedere, Tunisia
- University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
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12
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Gu Q, Zou J, Zhou Y, Deng Q. Mechanism of inflammasomes in cancer and targeted therapies. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1133013. [PMID: 37020871 PMCID: PMC10067570 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1133013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Inflammasomes, composed of the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain(NOD)-like receptors (NLRs), are immune-functional protein multimers that are closely linked to the host defense mechanism. When NLRs sense pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), they assemble into inflammasomes. Inflammasomes can activate various inflammatory signaling pathways, including nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways, and produce a large number of proinflammatory cytokines, which are closely associated with multiple cancers. They can also accelerate the occurrence and development of cancer by providing suitable tumor microenvironments, promoting tumor cell proliferation, and inhibiting tumor cell apoptosis. Therefore, the exploitation of novel targeted drugs against various inflammasomes and proinflammatory cytokines is a new idea for the treatment of cancer. In recent years, more than 50 natural extracts and synthetic small molecule targeted drugs have been reported to be in the research stage or have been applied to the clinic. Herein, we will overview the mechanisms of inflammasomes in common cancers and discuss the therapeutic prospects of natural extracts and synthetic targeted agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingdan Gu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shenzhen Longhua District Central Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Jiazhen Zou
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital, The First Affiliated 5 Hospital of Shenzhen University, Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ying Zhou
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shenzhen Longhua District Central Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Qiuchan Deng
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shenzhen Longhua District Central Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- *Correspondence: Qiuchan Deng,
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13
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Fu Y, Jia X, Yuan J, Yang Y, Zhang T, Yu Q, Zhou J, Wang T. Fam72a functions as a cell-cycle-controlled gene during proliferation and antagonizes apoptosis through reprogramming PP2A substrates. Dev Cell 2023; 58:398-415.e7. [PMID: 36868233 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2023.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023]
Abstract
The cell cycle is key to life. After decades of research, it is unclear whether any parts of this process have yet to be identified. Fam72a is a poorly characterized gene and is evolutionarily conserved across multicellular organisms. Here, we have found that Fam72a is a cell-cycle-regulated gene that is transcriptionally and post-transcriptionally regulated by FoxM1 and APC/C, respectively. Functionally, Fam72a directly binds to tubulin and both the Aα and B56 subunits of PP2A-B56 to modulate tubulin and Mcl1 phosphorylation, which in turn affects the progression of the cell cycle and signaling of apoptosis. Moreover, Fam72a is involved in early responses to chemotherapy, and it efficiently antagonizes various anticancer compounds such as CDK and Bcl2 inhibitors. Thus, Fam72a switches the tumor-suppressive PP2A to be oncogenic by reprogramming its substrates. These findings identify a regulatory axis of PP2A and a protein member in the cell cycle and tumorigenesis regulatory network in human cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Fu
- Department of Pharmacology and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammation Biology, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China; Department of Thoracic Oncology, Tianjin Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Lung Cancer Center, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China.
| | - Xiaofan Jia
- Department of Pharmacology and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammation Biology, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Jinwei Yuan
- Department of Pharmacology and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammation Biology, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Yuting Yang
- Department of Pharmacology and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammation Biology, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Teng Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammation Biology, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Qiujing Yu
- Department of Immunology and Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Jun Zhou
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Ting Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammation Biology, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China; Department of Thoracic Oncology, Tianjin Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Lung Cancer Center, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China.
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14
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Kong S, Moharil P, Handly-Santana A, Boehnke N, Panayiotou R, Gomerdinger V, Covarrubias G, Pires IS, Zervantonakis I, Brugge J, Hammond PT. Synergistic combination therapy delivered via layer-by-layer nanoparticles induces solid tumor regression of ovarian cancer. Bioeng Transl Med 2023; 8:e10429. [PMID: 36925689 PMCID: PMC10013771 DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The majority of patients with high grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) develop recurrent disease and chemotherapy resistance. To identify drug combinations that would be effective in treatment of chemotherapy resistant disease, we examined the efficacy of drug combinations that target the three antiapoptotic proteins most commonly expressed in HGSOC-BCL2, BCL-XL, and MCL1. Co-inhibition of BCL2 and BCL-XL (ABT-263) with inhibition of MCL1 (S63845) induces potent synergistic cytotoxicity in multiple HGSOC models. Since this drug combination is predicted to be toxic to patients due to the known clinical morbidities of each drug, we developed layer-by-layer nanoparticles (LbL NPs) that co-encapsulate these inhibitors in order to target HGSOC tumor cells and reduce systemic toxicities. We show that the LbL NPs can be designed to have high association with specific ovarian tumor cell types targeted in these studies, thus enabling a more selective uptake when delivered via intraperitoneal injection. Treatment with these LbL NPs displayed better potency than free drugs in vitro and resulted in near-complete elimination of solid tumor metastases of ovarian cancer xenografts. Thus, these results support the exploration of LbL NPs as a strategy to deliver potent drug combinations to recurrent HGSOC. While these findings are described for co-encapsulation of a BCL2/XL and a MCL1 inhibitor, the modular nature of LbL assembly provides flexibility in the range of therapies that can be incorporated, making LbL NPs an adaptable vehicle for delivery of additional combinations of pathway inhibitors and other oncology drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Kong
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology Cambridge Massachusetts United States.,Department of Chemical Engineering Massachusetts Institute of Technology Cambridge Massachusetts United States
| | - Pearl Moharil
- Harvard Medical School Harvard University Boston Massachusetts United States
| | | | - Natalie Boehnke
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology Cambridge Massachusetts United States
| | - Richard Panayiotou
- Harvard Medical School Harvard University Boston Massachusetts United States
| | - Victoria Gomerdinger
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology Cambridge Massachusetts United States.,Department of Chemical Engineering Massachusetts Institute of Technology Cambridge Massachusetts United States
| | - Gil Covarrubias
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology Cambridge Massachusetts United States
| | - Ivan S Pires
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology Cambridge Massachusetts United States.,Department of Chemical Engineering Massachusetts Institute of Technology Cambridge Massachusetts United States
| | - Ioannis Zervantonakis
- Harvard Medical School Harvard University Boston Massachusetts United States.,Department of Bioengineering University of Pittsburgh Pittsburgh Pennsylvania United States
| | - Joan Brugge
- Harvard Medical School Harvard University Boston Massachusetts United States
| | - Paula T Hammond
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology Cambridge Massachusetts United States.,Department of Chemical Engineering Massachusetts Institute of Technology Cambridge Massachusetts United States
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15
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Aid Z, Robert E, Lopez CK, Bourgoin M, Boudia F, Le Mene M, Riviere J, Baille M, Benbarche S, Renou L, Fagnan A, Thirant C, Federici L, Touchard L, Lecluse Y, Jetten A, Geoerger B, Lapillonne H, Solary E, Gaudry M, Meshinchi S, Pflumio F, Auberger P, Lobry C, Petit A, Jacquel A, Mercher T. High caspase 3 and vulnerability to dual BCL2 family inhibition define ETO2::GLIS2 pediatric leukemia. Leukemia 2023; 37:571-579. [PMID: 36585521 PMCID: PMC10583253 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-022-01800-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Pediatric acute myeloid leukemia expressing the ETO2::GLIS2 fusion oncogene is associated with dismal prognosis. Previous studies have shown that ETO2::GLIS2 can efficiently induce leukemia development associated with strong transcriptional changes but those amenable to pharmacological targeting remained to be identified. By studying an inducible ETO2::GLIS2 cellular model, we uncovered that de novo ETO2::GLIS2 expression in human cells led to increased CASP3 transcription, CASP3 activation, and cell death. Patient-derived ETO2::GLIS2+ leukemic cells expressed both high CASP3 and high BCL2. While BCL2 inhibition partly inhibited ETO2::GLIS2+ leukemic cell proliferation, BH3 profiling revealed that it also sensitized these cells to MCL1 inhibition indicating a functional redundancy between BCL2 and MCL1. We further show that combined inhibition of BCL2 and MCL1 is mandatory to abrogate disease progression using in vivo patient-derived xenograft models. These data reveal that a transcriptional consequence of ETO2::GLIS2 expression includes a positive regulation of the pro-apoptotic CASP3 and associates with a vulnerability to combined targeting of two BCL2 family members providing a novel therapeutic perspective for this aggressive pediatric AML subgroup.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zakia Aid
- INSERM U1170, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris Saclay, PEDIAC program, 94800, Villejuif, France
- Equipe labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, 75013, Paris, France
| | - Elie Robert
- INSERM U1170, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris Saclay, PEDIAC program, 94800, Villejuif, France
- Equipe labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, 75013, Paris, France
| | - Cécile K Lopez
- INSERM U1170, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris Saclay, PEDIAC program, 94800, Villejuif, France.
- Equipe labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, 75013, Paris, France.
- Wellcome Trust-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, UK.
- Department of Haematology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Maxence Bourgoin
- Team "Myeloid Malignancies and Multiple Myeloma", Université Côte d'Azur, INSERM U1065/C3M, 06204, Nice, France
| | - Fabien Boudia
- INSERM U1170, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris Saclay, PEDIAC program, 94800, Villejuif, France
- Equipe labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, 75013, Paris, France
| | - Melchior Le Mene
- INSERM U1170, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris Saclay, PEDIAC program, 94800, Villejuif, France
- Equipe labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, 75013, Paris, France
| | - Julie Riviere
- INSERM U1170, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris Saclay, PEDIAC program, 94800, Villejuif, France
- Equipe labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, 75013, Paris, France
| | - Marie Baille
- INSERM U1170, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris Saclay, PEDIAC program, 94800, Villejuif, France
- Equipe labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, 75013, Paris, France
| | - Salima Benbarche
- INSERM U1170, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris Saclay, PEDIAC program, 94800, Villejuif, France
| | - Laurent Renou
- Unité de Recherche (UMR)-E008 Stabilité Génétique, Cellules Souches et Radiations, Team Niche and Cancer in Hematopoiesis, Commissariat à l'Energie Atomique et aux Energies Alternatives (CEA), Université de Paris-Université Paris-Saclay, Fontenay-aux-Roses, 92260, France
| | - Alexandre Fagnan
- INSERM U1170, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris Saclay, PEDIAC program, 94800, Villejuif, France
- Equipe labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, 75013, Paris, France
| | - Cécile Thirant
- INSERM U1170, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris Saclay, PEDIAC program, 94800, Villejuif, France
- Equipe labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, 75013, Paris, France
| | - Laetitia Federici
- INSERM U1170, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris Saclay, PEDIAC program, 94800, Villejuif, France
- Equipe labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, 75013, Paris, France
| | - Laure Touchard
- Unité Mixte de Service - Analyse Moléculaire Modélisation et Imagerie de la maladie Cancéreuse (UMS AMMICA), Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, 94800, Villejuif, France
| | - Yann Lecluse
- Unité Mixte de Service - Analyse Moléculaire Modélisation et Imagerie de la maladie Cancéreuse (UMS AMMICA), Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, 94800, Villejuif, France
| | - Anton Jetten
- Immunity, Inflammation and Disease Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Birgit Geoerger
- Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Pediatric and Adolescent Oncology Department, INSERM U1015, Université Paris Saclay, 94800, Villejuif, France
| | - Hélène Lapillonne
- Pediatric Hematology and Oncology Department, Armand Trousseau Hospital, AP-HP, Sorbonne University, UMRS_938, CONECT-AML, 75012, Paris, France
| | - Eric Solary
- INSERM U1287, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, 94800, Villejuif, France
| | - Muriel Gaudry
- INSERM U1170, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris Saclay, PEDIAC program, 94800, Villejuif, France
- Equipe labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, 75013, Paris, France
| | - Soheil Meshinchi
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Françoise Pflumio
- Unité de Recherche (UMR)-E008 Stabilité Génétique, Cellules Souches et Radiations, Team Niche and Cancer in Hematopoiesis, Commissariat à l'Energie Atomique et aux Energies Alternatives (CEA), Université de Paris-Université Paris-Saclay, Fontenay-aux-Roses, 92260, France
- OPALE Carnot Institute, The Organization for Partnerships in Leukemia, 75010, Paris, France
| | - Patrick Auberger
- Team "Myeloid Malignancies and Multiple Myeloma", Université Côte d'Azur, INSERM U1065/C3M, 06204, Nice, France
- OPALE Carnot Institute, The Organization for Partnerships in Leukemia, 75010, Paris, France
| | - Camille Lobry
- INSERM U1170, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris Saclay, PEDIAC program, 94800, Villejuif, France
- INSERM U944, CNRS UMR7212, Institut de Recherche Saint Louis and Université de Paris, 75010, Paris, France
| | - Arnaud Petit
- Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Pediatric and Adolescent Oncology Department, INSERM U1015, Université Paris Saclay, 94800, Villejuif, France
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Arnaud Jacquel
- Team "Myeloid Malignancies and Multiple Myeloma", Université Côte d'Azur, INSERM U1065/C3M, 06204, Nice, France.
| | - Thomas Mercher
- INSERM U1170, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris Saclay, PEDIAC program, 94800, Villejuif, France.
- Equipe labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, 75013, Paris, France.
- OPALE Carnot Institute, The Organization for Partnerships in Leukemia, 75010, Paris, France.
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16
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BH3 mimetics and TKI combined therapy for Chronic Myeloid Leukemia. Biochem J 2023; 480:161-176. [PMID: 36719792 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20210608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) was considered for a long time one of the most hostile leukemia that was incurable for most of the patients, predominantly due to the extreme resistance to chemotherapy. Part of the resistance to cell death (apoptosis) is the result of increased levels of anti-apoptotic and decreased levels of pro-apoptotic member of the BCL-2 family induced by the BCR-ABL1 oncoprotein. BCR-ABL1 is a constitutively active tyrosine kinase responsible for initiating multiple and oncogenic signaling pathways. With the development of specific BCR-ABL1 tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) CML became a much more tractable disease. Nevertheless, TKIs do not cure CML patients and a substantial number of them develop intolerance or become resistant to the treatment. Therefore, novel anti-cancer strategies must be developed to treat CML patients independently or in combination with TKIs. Here, we will discuss the mechanisms of BCR-ABL1-dependent and -independent resistance to TKIs and the use of BH3-mimetics as a potential tool to fight CML.
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17
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Targeting anti-apoptotic pathways eliminates senescent melanocytes and leads to nevi regression. Nat Commun 2022; 13:7923. [PMID: 36564381 PMCID: PMC9789033 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-35657-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Human melanocytic nevi (moles) result from a brief period of clonal expansion of melanocytes. As a cellular defensive mechanism against oncogene-induced hyperplasia, nevus-resident melanocytes enter a senescent state of stable cell cycle arrest. Senescent melanocytes can persist for months in mice and years in humans with a risk to escape the senescent state and progress to melanoma. The mechanisms providing prolonged survival of senescent melanocytes remain poorly understood. Here, we show that senescent melanocytes in culture and in nevi express high level of the anti-apoptotic BCL-2 family member BCL-W but remain insensitive to the pan-BCL-2 inhibitor ABT-263. We demonstrate that resistance to ABT-263 is driven by mTOR-mediated enhanced translation of another anti-apoptotic member, MCL-1. Strikingly, the combination of ABT-263 and MCL-1 inhibitors results in synthetic lethality to senescent melanocytes, and its topical application sufficient to eliminate nevi in male mice. These data highlight the important role of redundant anti-apoptotic mechanisms for the survival advantage of senescent melanocytes, and the proof-of-concept for a non-invasive combination therapy for nevi removal.
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18
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Zhang Y, Dong Q, An Q, Zhang C, Mohagheghian E, Niu B, Qi F, Wei F, Chen S, Chen X, Wang A, Cao X, Wang N, Chen J. Synthetic Retinoid Kills Drug-Resistant Cancer Stem Cells via Inducing RARγ-Translocation-Mediated Tension Reduction and Chromatin Decondensation. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 9:e2203173. [PMID: 36031407 PMCID: PMC9631059 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202203173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
A recently developed synthetic retinoid abrogates proliferation and induces apoptosis of drug-resistant malignant-cancer-stem-cell-like cells. However, the underlying mechanisms of how the synthetic retinoid induces cancer-stem-cell-like cell tumor-repopulating cell (TRC) apoptosis are elusive. Here, it is shown that although the retinoid and conventional anticancer drugs cisplatin, all-trans retinoic acid, and tazarotene all inhibit cytoskeletal tension and decondense chromatin prior to inducing TRC apoptosis, half-maximal inhibitory concentration of the retinoid is 20-fold lower than those anticancer drugs. The synthetic retinoid induces retinoic acid receptor gamma (RARγ) translocation from the nucleus to the cytoplasm, leading to reduced RARγ binding to Cdc42 promoter and Cdc42 downregulation, which decreases filamentous-actin (F-actin) and inhibits cytoskeletal tension. Elevating F-actin or upregulating histone 3 lysine 9 trimethylation decreases retinoid-induced DNA damage and apoptosis of TRCs. The combinatorial treatment with a chromatin decondensation molecule and the retinoid inhibits tumor metastasis in mice more effectively than the synthetic retinoid alone. These findings suggest a strategy of lowering cell tension and decondensing chromatin to enhance DNA damage to abrogate metastasis of cancer-stem-cell-like cells with high efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of EducationLaboratory for Cellular Biomechanics and Regenerative MedicineDepartment of Biomedical EngineeringCollege of Life Science and TechnologyHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanHubei430074China
| | - Qi Dong
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of EducationLaboratory for Cellular Biomechanics and Regenerative MedicineDepartment of Biomedical EngineeringCollege of Life Science and TechnologyHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanHubei430074China
| | - Quanlin An
- Institute of Clinical ScienceZhongshan HospitalFudan University180 Fenglin RoadShanghai200032China
| | - Chumei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of EducationLaboratory for Cellular Biomechanics and Regenerative MedicineDepartment of Biomedical EngineeringCollege of Life Science and TechnologyHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanHubei430074China
| | - Erfan Mohagheghian
- Department of Mechanical Science and EngineeringThe Grainger College of EngineeringUniversity of Illinois at Urbana‐ChampaignUrbanaIL61801USA
| | - Bing Niu
- School of Life SciencesShanghai University99 Shangda RoadShanghai200444China
| | - Feng Qi
- Institute of Clinical ScienceZhongshan HospitalFudan University180 Fenglin RoadShanghai200032China
| | - Fuxiang Wei
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of EducationLaboratory for Cellular Biomechanics and Regenerative MedicineDepartment of Biomedical EngineeringCollege of Life Science and TechnologyHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanHubei430074China
| | - Sihan Chen
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of EducationLaboratory for Cellular Biomechanics and Regenerative MedicineDepartment of Biomedical EngineeringCollege of Life Science and TechnologyHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanHubei430074China
| | - Xinman Chen
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of EducationLaboratory for Cellular Biomechanics and Regenerative MedicineDepartment of Biomedical EngineeringCollege of Life Science and TechnologyHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanHubei430074China
| | - Anqi Wang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of EducationLaboratory for Cellular Biomechanics and Regenerative MedicineDepartment of Biomedical EngineeringCollege of Life Science and TechnologyHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanHubei430074China
| | - Xin Cao
- Institute of Clinical ScienceZhongshan HospitalFudan University180 Fenglin RoadShanghai200032China
| | - Ning Wang
- Department of Mechanical Science and EngineeringThe Grainger College of EngineeringUniversity of Illinois at Urbana‐ChampaignUrbanaIL61801USA
| | - Junwei Chen
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of EducationLaboratory for Cellular Biomechanics and Regenerative MedicineDepartment of Biomedical EngineeringCollege of Life Science and TechnologyHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanHubei430074China
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Mukherjee N, Dart CR, Amato CM, Honig-Frand A, Lambert JR, Lambert KA, Robinson WA, Tobin RP, McCarter MD, Couts KL, Fujita M, Norris DA, Shellman YG. Expression Differences in BCL2 Family Members between Uveal and Cutaneous Melanomas Account for Varying Sensitivity to BH3 Mimetics. J Invest Dermatol 2022; 142:1912-1922.e7. [PMID: 34942200 PMCID: PMC9635014 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2021.11.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Uveal melanoma (UM) is a subtype of melanoma. Although they share a melanocytic origin with cutaneous melanoma (CM), patients with UM have few treatment options. BCL2 homologous 3 mimetics are small-molecule drugs that mimic proapoptotic BCL2 family members. We compared BCL2 family member expression between UM and CM using immunoblot and The Cancer Genome Atlas transcriptomic analysis. UM has a unique signature of low BFL1 and high PUMA proteins compared with CM and 30 other cancer types, making them an attractive candidate for BCL2 homologous 3 protein mimetics. We tested the efficacy of a BCL2 inhibitor and MCL1 inhibitor (MCL1i) in UM, with viability assays, live-cell imaging, sphere assays, and mouse xenograft models. UM had a higher sensitivity to MCL1i than CM. Overexpression of BFL1 or knockdown of PUMA made the UM more resistant to MCL1i. In contrast, MAPK/extracellular signal‒regulated kinase inhibitor treatment in CM made them more sensitive to MCL1i. However, MCL1i-alone treatment was not very effective to reduce the UM initiating cells; to overcome this, we employed a combination of MCL1i with BCL2 inhibitor that synergistically inhibited UM initiating cell's capacity to expand. Overall, we identify a distinct expression profile of BCL2 family members for UM that makes them susceptible to BCL2 homologous 3 mimetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nabanita Mukherjee
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Chiara R Dart
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA; Division of Medical Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Carol M Amato
- Division of Medical Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Adam Honig-Frand
- Division of Medical Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - James R Lambert
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Karoline A Lambert
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - William A Robinson
- Division of Medical Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Richard P Tobin
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Martin D McCarter
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Kasey L Couts
- Division of Medical Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Mayumi Fujita
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA; Dermatology Section, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Denver, Colorado, USA; Gates Center for Regenerative Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - David A Norris
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA; Dermatology Section, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Yiqun G Shellman
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA; Gates Center for Regenerative Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA.
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20
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Myeloid cell leukemia-1 expression in cancers of the oral cavity: a scoping review. Cancer Cell Int 2022; 22:182. [PMID: 35524332 PMCID: PMC9074253 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-022-02603-0] [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: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background B cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) family members play important roles in cell survival as well as cell death. The role of myeloid cell leukemia-1 (Mcl-1), an important member of the Bcl-2 family, is well established in hematopoietic malignancies. However, the association between Mcl-1 and oral cavity, cancers is not clearly defined. Methods A scoping review was conducted until June 30, 2021, using four major databases, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase. Medical subject headings keywords for Mcl-1, along with its other identifiers, and head and neck cancers (only oral cavity tumors) were used to evaluate the expression, function, molecular association, and therapeutic approach of Mcl-1 in oral cavity cancers and precancers. Findings Mcl-1 expression was associated with the progression of oral cavity cancers. The molecular mechanism and pathways of Mcl-1 in oral cavity cancers established via experimental results have been highlighted in this review. Moreover, the various synthetic and naturally derived therapeutic agents targeting Mcl-1 have been documented. Novelty/Improvement Based on our present review, Mcl-1 appears to be an effective anticancer target that can be used in the therapeutic management of oral cancers.
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21
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Targeting the Intrinsic Apoptosis Pathway: A Window of Opportunity for Prostate Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 14:cancers14010051. [PMID: 35008216 PMCID: PMC8750516 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14010051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Prostate cancer treatment has improved over the last 20 years; despite this, approximately 33,000 men died from the disease in the United States in 2020. In view of this, new treatment options are urgently needed for advanced prostate cancer. Eradicating cancer cells by triggering apoptosis (a form of cell death) is an attractive strategy, and a novel class of drugs, called BH3 mimetics, have been designed to do this. They have been shown to work for blood cancers and may also have a role in solid cancers. Herein, we discuss cell death, focusing on the intrinsic apoptosis pathway, and consider how BH3 mimetics may be used to help treat prostate cancer. Abstract Despite major improvements in the management of advanced prostate cancer over the last 20 years, the disease remains invariably fatal, and new effective therapies are required. The development of novel hormonal agents and taxane chemotherapy has improved outcomes, although primary and acquired resistance remains problematic. Inducing cancer cell death via apoptosis has long been an attractive goal in the treatment of cancer. Apoptosis, a form of regulated cell death, is a highly controlled process, split into two main pathways (intrinsic and extrinsic), and is stimulated by a multitude of factors, including cellular and genotoxic stress. Numerous therapeutic strategies targeting the intrinsic apoptosis pathway are in clinical development, and BH3 mimetics have shown promising efficacy for hematological malignancies. Utilizing these agents for solid malignancies has proved more challenging, though efforts are ongoing. Molecular characterization and the development of predictive biomarkers is likely to be critical for patient selection, by identifying tumors with a vulnerability in the intrinsic apoptosis pathway. This review provides an up-to-date overview of cell death and apoptosis, specifically focusing on the intrinsic pathway. It summarizes the latest approaches for targeting the intrinsic apoptosis pathway with BH3 mimetics and discusses how these strategies may be leveraged to treat prostate cancer.
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22
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Townsend PA, Kozhevnikova MV, Cexus ONF, Zamyatnin AA, Soond SM. BH3-mimetics: recent developments in cancer therapy. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2021; 40:355. [PMID: 34753495 PMCID: PMC8576916 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-021-02157-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The hopeful outcomes from 30 years of research in BH3-mimetics have indeed served a number of solid paradigms for targeting intermediates from the apoptosis pathway in a variety of diseased states. Not only have such rational approaches in drug design yielded several key therapeutics, such outputs have also offered insights into the integrated mechanistic aspects of basic and clinical research at the genetics level for the future. In no other area of medical research have the effects of such work been felt, than in cancer research, through targeting the BAX-Bcl-2 protein-protein interactions. With these promising outputs in mind, several mimetics, and their potential therapeutic applications, have also been developed for several other pathological conditions, such as cardiovascular disease and tissue fibrosis, thus highlighting the universal importance of the intrinsic arm of the apoptosis pathway and its input to general tissue homeostasis. Considering such recent developments, and in a field that has generated so much scientific interest, we take stock of how the broadening area of BH3-mimetics has developed and diversified, with a focus on their uses in single and combined cancer treatment regimens and recently explored therapeutic delivery methods that may aid the development of future therapeutics of this nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul A Townsend
- University of Surrey, Guildford, UK. .,Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation. .,University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
| | - Maria V Kozhevnikova
- University of Surrey, Guildford, UK.,Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | | | - Andrey A Zamyatnin
- University of Surrey, Guildford, UK.,Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation.,Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russian Federation.,Sirius University of Science and Technology, Sochi, Russian Federation
| | - Surinder M Soond
- University of Surrey, Guildford, UK. .,Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation.
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23
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Discovery, development and application of drugs targeting BCL-2 pro-survival proteins in cancer. Biochem Soc Trans 2021; 49:2381-2395. [PMID: 34515749 PMCID: PMC8589430 DOI: 10.1042/bst20210749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The discovery of a new class of small molecule compounds that target the BCL-2 family of anti-apoptotic proteins is one of the great success stories of basic science leading to translational outcomes in the last 30 years. The eponymous BCL-2 protein was identified over 30 years ago due to its association with cancer. However, it was the unveiling of the biochemistry and structural biology behind it and its close relatives’ mechanism(s)-of-action that provided the inspiration for what are now known as ‘BH3-mimetics’, the first clinically approved drugs designed to specifically inhibit protein–protein interactions. Herein, we chart the history of how these drugs were discovered, their evolution and application in cancer treatment.
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24
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Fairlie WD, Lee EF. Targeting the BCL-2-regulated apoptotic pathway for the treatment of solid cancers. Biochem Soc Trans 2021; 49:2397-2410. [PMID: 34581776 PMCID: PMC8589438 DOI: 10.1042/bst20210750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The deregulation of apoptosis is a key contributor to tumourigenesis as it can lead to the unwanted survival of rogue cells. Drugs known as the BH3-mimetics targeting the pro-survival members of the BCL-2 protein family to induce apoptosis in cancer cells have achieved clinical success for the treatment of haematological malignancies. However, despite our increasing knowledge of the pro-survival factors mediating the unwanted survival of solid tumour cells, and our growing BH3-mimetics armamentarium, the application of BH3-mimetic therapy in solid cancers has not reached its full potential. This is mainly attributed to the need to identify clinically safe, yet effective, combination strategies to target the multiple pro-survival proteins that typically mediate the survival of solid tumours. In this review, we discuss current and exciting new developments in the field that has the potential to unleash the full power of BH3-mimetic therapy to treat currently recalcitrant solid malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- W. Douglas Fairlie
- Cell Death and Survival Laboratory, Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, Victoria 3084, Australia
- Cell Death and Survival Laboratory, School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria 3086, Australia
- La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria 3086, Australia
| | - Erinna F. Lee
- Cell Death and Survival Laboratory, Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, Victoria 3084, Australia
- Cell Death and Survival Laboratory, School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria 3086, Australia
- La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria 3086, Australia
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25
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Nor Hisam NS, Ugusman A, Rajab NF, Ahmad MF, Fenech M, Liew SL, Mohamad Anuar NN. Combination Therapy of Navitoclax with Chemotherapeutic Agents in Solid Tumors and Blood Cancer: A Review of Current Evidence. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13091353. [PMID: 34575429 PMCID: PMC8468743 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13091353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Combination therapy emerges as a fundamental scheme in cancer. Many targeted therapeutic agents are developed to be used with chemotherapy or radiation therapy to enhance drug efficacy and reduce toxicity effects. ABT-263, known as navitoclax, mimics the BH3-only proteins of the BCL-2 family and has a high affinity towards pro-survival BCL-2 family proteins (i.e., BCL-XL, BCL-2, BCL-W) to induce cell apoptosis effectively. A single navitoclax action potently ameliorates several tumor progressions, including blood and bone marrow cancer, as well as small cell lung carcinoma. Not only that, but navitoclax alone also therapeutically affects fibrotic disease. Nevertheless, outcomes from the clinical trial of a single navitoclax agent in patients with advanced and relapsed small cell lung cancer demonstrated a limited anti-cancer activity. This brings accumulating evidence of navitoclax to be used concomitantly with other chemotherapeutic agents in several solid and non-solid tumors that are therapeutically benefiting from navitoclax treatment in preclinical studies. Initially, we justify the anti-cancer role of navitoclax in combination therapy. Then, we evaluate the current evidence of navitoclax in combination with the chemotherapeutic agents comprehensively to indicate the primary regulator of this combination strategy in order to produce a therapeutic effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nur Syahidah Nor Hisam
- Programme of Biomedical Science, Centre for Toxicology & Health Risk Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Raja Muda Abdul Aziz, Kuala Lumpur 50300, Malaysia; (N.S.N.H.); (S.L.L.)
| | - Azizah Ugusman
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia;
| | - Nor Fadilah Rajab
- Center for Healthy Ageing & Wellness, Programme of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Raja Muda Abdul Aziz, Kuala Lumpur 50300, Malaysia; (N.F.R.); (M.F.)
| | - Mohd Faizal Ahmad
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia;
| | - Michael Fenech
- Center for Healthy Ageing & Wellness, Programme of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Raja Muda Abdul Aziz, Kuala Lumpur 50300, Malaysia; (N.F.R.); (M.F.)
- Genome Health Foundation, North Brighton, SA 5048, Australia
| | - Sze Ling Liew
- Programme of Biomedical Science, Centre for Toxicology & Health Risk Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Raja Muda Abdul Aziz, Kuala Lumpur 50300, Malaysia; (N.S.N.H.); (S.L.L.)
| | - Nur Najmi Mohamad Anuar
- Programme of Biomedical Science, Centre for Toxicology & Health Risk Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Raja Muda Abdul Aziz, Kuala Lumpur 50300, Malaysia; (N.S.N.H.); (S.L.L.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +60-13-3845844
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A Novel Regimen for Treating Melanoma: MCL1 Inhibitors and Azacitidine. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14080749. [PMID: 34451846 PMCID: PMC8399604 DOI: 10.3390/ph14080749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Although treatment options for melanoma patients have expanded in recent years with the approval of immunotherapy and targeted therapy, there is still an unmet need for new treatment options for patients that are ineligible for, or resistant to these therapies. BH3 mimetics, drugs that mimic the activity of pro-apoptotic BCL2 family proteins, have recently achieved remarkable success in the clinical setting. The combination of BH3 mimetic ABT-199 (venetoclax) plus azacitidine has shown substantial benefit in treating acute myelogenous leukemia. We evaluated the efficacy of various combinations of BH3 mimetic + azacitidine in fourteen human melanoma cell lines from cutaneous, mucosal, acral and uveal subtypes. Using a combination of cell viability assay, BCL2 family knockdown cell lines, live cell imaging, and sphere formation assay, we found that combining inhibition of MCL1, an anti-apoptotic BCL2 protein, with azacitidine had substantial pro-apoptotic effects in multiple melanoma cell lines. Specifically, this combination reduced cell viability, proliferation, sphere formation, and induced apoptosis. In addition, this combination is highly effective at reducing cell viability in rare mucosal and uveal subtypes. Overall, our data suggest this combination as a promising therapeutic option for some patients with melanoma and should be further explored in clinical trials.
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27
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Programmed cell death, redox imbalance, and cancer therapeutics. Apoptosis 2021; 26:385-414. [PMID: 34236569 DOI: 10.1007/s10495-021-01682-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cancer cells are disordered by nature and thus featured by higher internal redox level than healthy cells. Redox imbalance could trigger programmed cell death if exceeded a certain threshold, rendering therapeutic strategies relying on redox control a possible cancer management solution. Yet, various programmed cell death events have been consecutively discovered, complicating our understandings on their associations with redox imbalance and clinical implications especially therapeutic design. Thus, it is imperative to understand differences and similarities among programmed cell death events regarding their associations with redox imbalance for improved control over these events in malignant cells as well as appropriate design on therapeutic approaches relying on redox control. This review addresses these issues and concludes by bringing affront cold atmospheric plasma as an emerging redox controller with translational potential in clinics.
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Wang H, Guo M, Wei H, Chen Y. Targeting MCL-1 in cancer: current status and perspectives. J Hematol Oncol 2021; 14:67. [PMID: 33883020 PMCID: PMC8061042 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-021-01079-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 134] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Myeloid leukemia 1 (MCL-1) is an antiapoptotic protein of the BCL-2 family that prevents apoptosis by binding to the pro-apoptotic BCL-2 proteins. Overexpression of MCL-1 is frequently observed in many tumor types and is closely associated with tumorigenesis, poor prognosis and drug resistance. The central role of MCL-1 in regulating the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway makes it an attractive target for cancer therapy. Significant progress has been made with regard to MCL-1 inhibitors, some of which have entered clinical trials. Here, we discuss the mechanism by which MCL-1 regulates cancer cell apoptosis and review the progress related to MCL-1 small molecule inhibitors and their role in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haolan Wang
- Department of Oncology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, Laboratory of Structural Biology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Ming Guo
- Department of Oncology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, Laboratory of Structural Biology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Hudie Wei
- Department of Oncology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, Laboratory of Structural Biology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
| | - Yongheng Chen
- Department of Oncology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, Laboratory of Structural Biology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China. .,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
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29
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Fairlie WD, Lee EF. Co-Operativity between MYC and BCL-2 Pro-Survival Proteins in Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22062841. [PMID: 33799592 PMCID: PMC8000576 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22062841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
B-Cell Lymphoma 2 (BCL-2), c-MYC and related proteins are arguably amongst the most widely studied in all of biology. Every year there are thousands of papers reporting on different aspects of their biochemistry, cellular and physiological mechanisms and functions. This plethora of literature can be attributed to both proteins playing essential roles in the normal functioning of a cell, and by extension a whole organism, but also due to their central role in disease, most notably, cancer. Many cancers arise due to genetic lesions resulting in deregulation of both proteins, and indeed the development and survival of tumours is often dependent on co-operativity between these protein families. In this review we will discuss the individual roles of both proteins in cancer, describe cancers where co-operativity between them has been well-characterised and finally, some strategies to target these proteins therapeutically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walter Douglas Fairlie
- Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia;
- School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC 3084, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC 3084, Australia
| | - Erinna F. Lee
- Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia;
- School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC 3084, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC 3084, Australia
- Correspondence:
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Hou Y, Sun J, Huang J, Yao F, Chen X, Zhu B, Zhao D. Circular RNA circRNA_0000094 sponges microRNA-223-3p and up-regulate F-box and WD repeat domain containing 7 to restrain T cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia progression. Hum Cell 2021; 34:977-989. [PMID: 33677796 DOI: 10.1007/s13577-021-00504-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) exert crucial regulatory effects in the pathogenesis of multiple tumors. This work aimed to probe into the role of circ_0000094 in T cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL). In this work, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was applied to quantify circ_0000094, miR-223-3p, and F-box and WD repeat domain containing 7 (FBW7) mRNA expressions in lymph node samples from T-ALL patients; Western blot was adopted to examine FBW7 protein expression in T-ALL cells; cell proliferation was detected by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) experiment; apoptosis was examined by flow cytometry; Transwell experiments were applied to assess T-ALL cell migration and invasion; the interactions among circ_0000094 and miR-223-3p, and miR-223-3p and FBW7 were validated by bioinformatics prediction, dual-luciferase reporter gene assay, and RNA immunoprecipitation experiment. We reported that, circ_0000094 expression was markedly reduced in T-ALL and circ_0000094 was predominantly located in the cytoplasm; gain-of-function and loss-of-function assays verified that circ_0000094 overexpression remarkably suppressed T-ALL cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, and enhanced apoptosis while knocking down circ_0000094 enhanced the malignant phenotypes of T-ALL cells; "rescue experiments" implied that miR-223-3p mimics partly reversed the inhibitory effects on the malignant phenotype of T-ALL cells due to the circ_0000094 up-regulation; circ_0000094 was proved to be a molecular sponge for miR-223-3p, and it could up-regulate the expression of FBW7 via repressing miR-223-3p expression. Taken together, it was concluded that circ_0000094 impedes T-ALL progression by modulating the miR-223-3p/FBW7 axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Hou
- Department of Pediatrics, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, No. 169 Donghu Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, 430071, Hubei, China.,Department of Pediatrics, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, No. 136 Jingzhou Street, Xiangcheng District, Xiangyang City, 441021, Hubei Province, China
| | - Junjie Sun
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, No. 136 Jingzhou Street, Xiangcheng District, Xiangyang City, 441021, Hubei Province, China
| | - Jie Huang
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, No. 136 Jingzhou Street, Xiangcheng District, Xiangyang City, 441021, Hubei Province, China
| | - Fengzhi Yao
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, No. 136 Jingzhou Street, Xiangcheng District, Xiangyang City, 441021, Hubei Province, China
| | - Xuelian Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, No. 136 Jingzhou Street, Xiangcheng District, Xiangyang City, 441021, Hubei Province, China
| | - Bin Zhu
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, No. 136 Jingzhou Street, Xiangcheng District, Xiangyang City, 441021, Hubei Province, China.
| | - Dongchi Zhao
- Department of Pediatrics, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, No. 169 Donghu Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, 430071, Hubei, China.
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31
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It's time to die: BH3 mimetics in solid tumors. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2021; 1868:118987. [PMID: 33600840 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2021.118987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The removal of cells by apoptosis is an essential process regulating tissue homeostasis. Cancer cells acquire the ability to circumvent apoptosis and survive in an unphysiological tissue context. Thereby, the Bcl-2 protein family plays a key role in the initiation of apoptosis, and overexpression of the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 proteins is one of the molecular mechanisms protecting cancer cells from apoptosis. Recently, small molecules targeting the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family proteins have been identified, and with venetoclax the first of these BH3 mimetics has been approved for the treatment of leukemia. In solid tumors the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family proteins Mcl-1 and Bcl-xL are frequently overexpressed or genetically amplified. In this review, we summarize the role of Mcl-1 and Bcl-xL in solid tumors and compare the different BH3 mimetics targeting Mcl-1 or Bcl-xL.
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32
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Trisciuoglio D, Del Bufalo D. New insights into the roles of antiapoptotic members of the Bcl-2 family in melanoma progression and therapy. Drug Discov Today 2021; 26:1126-1135. [PMID: 33545382 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2021.01.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Prosurvival and antiapoptotic B cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) family proteins are often overexpressed in cutaneous melanoma, one of the most aggressive types of human cancer. They are also implicated in resistance to therapy and participate in melanoma progression by regulating various processes, including cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and crosstalk with the tumor microenvironment. In this review, we summarize recent findings related to prosurvival members of the Bcl-2 family beyond their canonical functions in the apoptotic pathway, mainly focusing on their potential roles as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in cutaneous melanoma. We also provide an overview of different approaches used to inhibit Bcl-2 proteins in preclinical and clinical studies, which are mainly based on the inhibition of protein expression or the disruption of their antiapoptotic functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Trisciuoglio
- Preclinical Models and New Therapeutic Agents Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Via Elio Chianesi 53, Rome, Italy; Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, National Research Council, via degli Apuli 4, 00185, Rome, Italy.
| | - Donatella Del Bufalo
- Preclinical Models and New Therapeutic Agents Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Via Elio Chianesi 53, Rome, Italy.
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33
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Senescence under appraisal: hopes and challenges revisited. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:3333-3354. [PMID: 33439271 PMCID: PMC8038995 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-020-03746-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, cellular senescence has become the focus of attention in multiple areas of biomedical research. Typically defined as an irreversible cell cycle arrest accompanied by increased cellular growth, metabolic activity and by a characteristic messaging secretome, cellular senescence can impact on multiple physiological and pathological processes such as wound healing, fibrosis, cancer and ageing. These unjustly called 'zombie cells' are indeed a rich source of opportunities for innovative therapeutic development. In this review, we collate the current understanding of the process of cellular senescence and its two-faced nature, i.e. beneficial/detrimental, and reason this duality is linked to contextual aspects. We propose the senescence programme as an endogenous pro-resolving mechanism that may lead to sustained inflammation and damage when dysregulated or when senescent cells are not cleared efficiently. This pro-resolving model reconciles the paradoxical two faces of senescence by emphasising that it is the unsuccessful completion of the programme, and not senescence itself, what leads to pathology. Thus, pro-senescence therapies under the right context, may favour inflammation resolution. We also review the evidence for the multiple therapeutic approaches under development based on senescence, including its induction, prevention, clearance and the use of senolytic and senomorphic drugs. In particular, we highlight the importance of the immune system in the favourable outcome of senescence and the implications of an inefficient immune surveillance in completion of the senescent cycle. Finally, we identify and discuss a number of challenges and existing gaps to encourage and stimulate further research in this exciting and unravelled field, with the hope of promoting and accelerating the clinical success of senescence-based therapies.
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34
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The deubiquitinase (DUB) USP13 promotes Mcl-1 stabilisation in cervical cancer. Oncogene 2021; 40:2112-2129. [PMID: 33627786 PMCID: PMC7979541 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-021-01679-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Protein ubiquitination is a critical regulator of cellular homeostasis. Aberrations in the addition or removal of ubiquitin can result in the development of cancer and key components of the ubiquitination machinery serve as oncogenes or tumour suppressors. An emerging target in the development of cancer therapeutics are the deubiquitinase (DUB) enzymes that remove ubiquitin from protein substrates. Whether this class of enzyme plays a role in cervical cancer has not been fully explored. By interrogating the cervical cancer data from the TCGA consortium, we noted that the DUB USP13 is amplified in ~15% of cervical cancer cases. We confirmed that USP13 expression was increased in cervical cancer cell lines, cytology samples from patients with cervical disease and in cervical cancer tissue. Depletion of USP13 inhibited cervical cancer cell proliferation. Mechanistically, USP13 bound to, deubiquitinated and stabilised Mcl-1, a pivotal member of the anti-apoptotic BCL-2 family. Furthermore, reduced Mcl-1 expression partially contributed to the observed proliferative defect in USP13 depleted cells. Importantly, the expression of USP13 and Mcl-1 proteins correlated in cervical cancer tissue. Finally, we demonstrated that depletion of USP13 expression or inhibition of USP13 enzymatic activity increased the sensitivity of cervical cancer cells to the BH3 mimetic inhibitor ABT-263. Together, our data demonstrates that USP13 is a potential oncogene in cervical cancer that functions to stabilise the pro-survival protein Mcl-1, offering a potential therapeutic target for these cancers.
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35
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Abstract
Sphere assays are widely used in vitro techniques to enrich and evaluate the stem-like cell behavior of both normal and cancer cells. Utilizing three-dimensional in vitro sphere culture conditions provide a better representation of tumor growth in vivo than the more common monolayer cultures. We describe how to perform primary and secondary sphere assays, used for the enrichment and self-renewability studies of melanoma/melanocyte stem-like cells. Spheres are generated by growing melanoma cells at low density in nonadherent conditions with stem cell media. We provide protocols for preparing inexpensive and versatile polyHEMA-coated plates, setting up primary and secondary sphere assays in almost any tissue culture format and quantification methods using standard inverted microscopy. Our protocol is easily adaptable to laboratories with basic cell culture capabilities, without the need for expensive fluidic instruments.
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36
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Mehdipour M, Mehdipour T, Skinner CM, Wong N, Liu C, Chen CC, Jeon OH, Zuo Y, Conboy MJ, Conboy IM. Plasma dilution improves cognition and attenuates neuroinflammation in old mice. GeroScience 2020; 43:1-18. [PMID: 33191466 PMCID: PMC8050203 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-020-00297-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Our recent study has established that young blood factors are not causal, nor necessary, for the systemic rejuvenation of mammalian tissues. Instead, a procedure referred to as neutral blood exchange (NBE) that resets signaling milieu to a pro-regenerative state through dilution of old plasma, enhanced the health and repair of the muscle and liver, and promoted better hippocampal neurogenesis in 2-year-old mice (Mehdipour et al., Aging 12:8790–8819, 2020). Here we expand the rejuvenative phenotypes of NBE, focusing on the brain. Namely, our results demonstrate that old mice perform much better in novel object and novel texture (whisker discrimination) tests after a single NBE, which is accompanied by reduced neuroinflammation (less-activated CD68+ microglia). Evidence against attenuation/dilution of peripheral senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) as the main mechanism behind NBE was that the senolytic ABT 263 had limited effects on neuroinflammation and did not enhance hippocampal neurogenesis in the old mice. Interestingly, peripherally acting ABT 263 and NBE both diminished SA-βGal signal in the old brain, demonstrating that peripheral senescence propagates to the brain, but NBE was more robustly rejuvenative than ABT 263, suggesting that rejuvenation was not simply by reducing senescence. Explaining the mechanism of the positive effects of NBE on the brain, our comparative proteomics analysis demonstrated that dilution of old blood plasma yields an increase in the determinants of brain maintenance and repair in mice and in people. These findings confirm the paradigm of rejuvenation through dilution of age-elevated systemic factors and extrapolate it to brain health and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melod Mehdipour
- Department of Bioengineering and QB3, UC Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Taha Mehdipour
- Department of Bioengineering and QB3, UC Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Colin M Skinner
- Department of Bioengineering and QB3, UC Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Nathan Wong
- Department of Bioengineering and QB3, UC Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Chao Liu
- Department of Bioengineering and QB3, UC Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Chia-Chien Chen
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology and QB3, UCSC, Santa Cruz, CA, USA
| | - Ok Hee Jeon
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, 8001 Redwood Boulevard, Novato, CA, USA.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yi Zuo
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology and QB3, UCSC, Santa Cruz, CA, USA
| | - Michael J Conboy
- Department of Bioengineering and QB3, UC Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Irina M Conboy
- Department of Bioengineering and QB3, UC Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA.
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37
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Mukherjee N, Amato CM, Skees J, Todd KJ, Lambert KA, Robinson WA, Van Gulick R, Weight RM, Dart CR, Tobin RP, McCarter MD, Fujita M, Norris DA, Shellman YG. Simultaneously Inhibiting BCL2 and MCL1 Is a Therapeutic Option for Patients with Advanced Melanoma. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E2182. [PMID: 32764384 PMCID: PMC7464298 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12082182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
There is an urgent need to develop treatments for patients with melanoma who are refractory to or ineligible for immune checkpoint blockade, including patients who lack BRAF-V600E/K mutations. This is often the case in patients diagnosed with rare melanoma subtypes such as mucosal and acral melanoma. Here, we analyzed data from the cutaneous melanoma The Cancer Genome Atlas Network (TCGA) transcriptomic and proteomic databases for differential expression of apoptosis molecules between melanomas with or without BRAF hotspot mutations. Our data indicated higher B-cell CLL/lymphoma 2 (BCL2) expression in melanoma without BRAF hotspot mutations, suggesting that BH3 mimetics, such as ABT-199 (venetoclax, a small molecule against BCL2), may be a potential therapeutic option for these patients. We explored the efficacy of combining two BH3 mimetics, ABT-199 and a myeloid cell leukemia sequence 1 (MCL1) inhibitor (S63845 or S64315/MIK665) in cutaneous, mucosal and acral melanomas, in vitro and in vivo. Our data indicate this combination induced cell death in a broad range of melanoma cell lines, including melanoma initiating cell populations, and was more potent in melanoma cells without BRAF-V600E/K mutations. Our knockdown/knockout experiments suggest that several pro-apoptotic BCL2 family members, BCL2-like 11 (apoptosis facilitator) (BIM), phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate-induced protein 1 (NOXA) or BID, play a role in the combination-induced effects. Overall, our study supports the rationale for combining an MCL1 inhibitor with a BCL2 inhibitor as a therapeutic option in patients with advanced melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nabanita Mukherjee
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Mail Stop 8127, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; (N.M.); (J.S.); (K.J.T.); (K.A.L.); (M.F.); (D.A.N.)
| | - Carol M. Amato
- Division of Medical Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Mail Stop 8117, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; (C.M.A.); (W.A.R.); (R.V.G.); (R.M.W.); (C.R.D.)
| | - Jenette Skees
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Mail Stop 8127, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; (N.M.); (J.S.); (K.J.T.); (K.A.L.); (M.F.); (D.A.N.)
| | - Kaleb J. Todd
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Mail Stop 8127, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; (N.M.); (J.S.); (K.J.T.); (K.A.L.); (M.F.); (D.A.N.)
| | - Karoline A. Lambert
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Mail Stop 8127, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; (N.M.); (J.S.); (K.J.T.); (K.A.L.); (M.F.); (D.A.N.)
| | - William A. Robinson
- Division of Medical Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Mail Stop 8117, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; (C.M.A.); (W.A.R.); (R.V.G.); (R.M.W.); (C.R.D.)
| | - Robert Van Gulick
- Division of Medical Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Mail Stop 8117, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; (C.M.A.); (W.A.R.); (R.V.G.); (R.M.W.); (C.R.D.)
| | - Ryan M. Weight
- Division of Medical Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Mail Stop 8117, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; (C.M.A.); (W.A.R.); (R.V.G.); (R.M.W.); (C.R.D.)
| | - Chiara R. Dart
- Division of Medical Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Mail Stop 8117, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; (C.M.A.); (W.A.R.); (R.V.G.); (R.M.W.); (C.R.D.)
| | - Richard P. Tobin
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; (R.P.T.); (M.D.M.)
| | - Martin D. McCarter
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; (R.P.T.); (M.D.M.)
| | - Mayumi Fujita
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Mail Stop 8127, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; (N.M.); (J.S.); (K.J.T.); (K.A.L.); (M.F.); (D.A.N.)
- Dermatology Section, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Denver, CO 80220, USA
- Gates Center for Regenerative Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - David A. Norris
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Mail Stop 8127, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; (N.M.); (J.S.); (K.J.T.); (K.A.L.); (M.F.); (D.A.N.)
- Dermatology Section, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Denver, CO 80220, USA
| | - Yiqun G. Shellman
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Mail Stop 8127, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; (N.M.); (J.S.); (K.J.T.); (K.A.L.); (M.F.); (D.A.N.)
- Gates Center for Regenerative Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
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