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Kim N, Hahn S, Choi YJ, Cho H, Chung H, Jang JE, Lyu CJ, Lee ST, Choi JR, Cheong JW, Shin S. Comprehensive insights into AML relapse: genetic mutations, clonal evolution, and clinical outcomes. Cancer Cell Int 2024; 24:174. [PMID: 38764048 PMCID: PMC11103850 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-024-03368-4] [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: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a complex hematologic malignancy characterized by uncontrolled proliferation of myeloid precursor cells within bone marrow. Despite advances in understanding of its molecular underpinnings, AML remains a therapeutic challenge due to its high relapse rate and clonal evolution. METHODS In this retrospective study, we analyzed data from 24 AML patients diagnosed at a single institution between January 2017 and August 2023. Comprehensive genetic analyses, including chromosomal karyotyping, next-generation sequencing, and gene fusion assays, were performed on bone marrow samples obtained at initial diagnosis and relapse. Clinical data, treatment regimens, and patient outcomes were also documented. RESULTS Mutations in core genes of FLT3, NPM1, DNMT3A, and IDH2 were frequently discovered in diagnostic sample and remained in relapse sample. FLT3-ITD, TP53, KIT, RUNX1, and WT1 mutation were acquired at relapse in one patient each. Gene fusion assays revealed stable patterns, while chromosomal karyotype analyses indicated a greater diversity of mutations in relapsed patients. Clonal evolution patterns varied, with some cases showing linear or branching evolution and others exhibiting no substantial change in core mutations between diagnosis and relapse. CONCLUSIONS Our study integrates karyotype, gene rearrangements, and gene mutation results to provide a further understanding of AML heterogeneity and evolution. We demonstrate the clinical relevance of specific mutations and clonal evolution patterns, emphasizing the need for personalized therapies and measurable residual disease monitoring in AML management. By bridging the gap between genetics and clinical outcome, we move closer to tailored AML therapies and improved patient prognoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Namsoo Kim
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Severance Hospital, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Korea
| | - Seungmin Hahn
- Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Severance Hospital, Yonsei Cancer Center, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yu Jeong Choi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Severance Hospital, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Korea
| | - Hyunsoo Cho
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Severance Hospital, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Korea
| | - Haerim Chung
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Severance Hospital, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Korea
| | - Ji Eun Jang
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Severance Hospital, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Korea
| | - Chuhl Joo Lyu
- Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Severance Hospital, Yonsei Cancer Center, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seung-Tae Lee
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Severance Hospital, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Korea
- Dxome Co. Ltd, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Jong Rak Choi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Severance Hospital, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Korea
- Dxome Co. Ltd, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - June-Won Cheong
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Severance Hospital, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Korea.
| | - Saeam Shin
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Severance Hospital, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Korea.
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Garinet S, Lupo A, Denize T, Loyaux R, Timsit S, Gazeau B, Fabre E, Maaradji Z, Gibault L, Giroux-Leprieur E, Duchemann B, Monnet I, Jouveshomme S, Aldea M, Besse B, Le Pimpec-Barthes F, Leroy K, Wislez M, Blons H. Successive next-generation sequencing strategy for optimal fusion gene detection in non-small-cell lung cancer in clinical practice. Pathology 2024:S0031-3025(24)00124-7. [PMID: 38834439 DOI: 10.1016/j.pathol.2024.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
Metastatic non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) displays various molecular alterations in the RAS-MAPK pathway. In particular, NSCLCs show high rates of targetable gene fusion in ALK, RET, ROS1, NRG1 and NTRK, or MET exon 14 skipping. Rapid and accurate detection of gene fusion in EGFR/KRAS/BRAF mutations is important for treatment selection especially for first-line indications. RNA-based next-generation sequencing (NGS) panels appear to be the most appropriate as all targets are multiplexed in a single run. While comprehensive NGS panels remain costly for daily practice, optimal sequencing strategies using targeted DNA/RNA panel approaches need to be validated. Here, we describe our lung cancer screening strategy using DNA and RNA targeted approaches in a real-life cohort of 589 NSCLC patients assessed for molecular testing. Gene fusions were analysed in 174 patients negative for oncogene driver mutations or ALK immunohistochemistry in a two-step strategy. Targetable alterations were identified in 28% of contributive samples. Non-smokers had a 63.7% probability to have a targetable alteration as compared to 21.5% for smokers. Overall survival was significantly higher (p=0.03) for patients who received a molecularly matched therapy. Our study shows the feasibility in routine testing of NSCLC DNA/RNA molecular screening for all samples in a cost- and time-controlled manner. The significant high fusion detection rate in patients with wild-type RAS-MAPK tumours highlights the importance of amending testing strategies in NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Garinet
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Oncology, Hopital Européen Georges Pompidou, APHP Centre, Paris, France; Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Université Paris Cité, Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Team Personalized Medicine, Pharmacogenomics and Therapeutic Optimization (MEPPOT), Paris, France.
| | - Audrey Lupo
- Department of Pathology, Hopital Cochin, APHP.Centre, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Thomas Denize
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Oncology, Hopital Européen Georges Pompidou, APHP Centre, Paris, France
| | - Romain Loyaux
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Oncology, Hopital Européen Georges Pompidou, APHP Centre, Paris, France
| | - Sarah Timsit
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Oncology, Hopital Européen Georges Pompidou, APHP Centre, Paris, France
| | - Benoit Gazeau
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Hopital Européen Georges Pompidou, APHP.Centre, Paris, France
| | - Elizabeth Fabre
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Hopital Européen Georges Pompidou, APHP.Centre, Paris, France
| | - Zineb Maaradji
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Hopital Européen Georges Pompidou, APHP.Centre, Paris, France
| | - Laure Gibault
- Department of Pathology, Hopital Européen Georges Pompidou, APHP.Centre, Paris, France
| | | | - Boris Duchemann
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Hopital Avicenne, APHP, Aubervilliers, France
| | - Isabelle Monnet
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Hopital Intercommunal Créteil, Créteil, France
| | | | - Mihaela Aldea
- Cancer Medicine Department, Institut Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France
| | - Benjamin Besse
- Cancer Medicine Department, Institut Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France
| | | | - Karen Leroy
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Oncology, Hopital Européen Georges Pompidou, APHP Centre, Paris, France
| | - Marie Wislez
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Hopital Cochin, APHP.Centre, Paris, France
| | - Hélène Blons
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Oncology, Hopital Européen Georges Pompidou, APHP Centre, Paris, France; Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Université Paris Cité, Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Team Personalized Medicine, Pharmacogenomics and Therapeutic Optimization (MEPPOT), Paris, France
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3
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Evans M, Kendall T. Practical considerations for pathological diagnosis and molecular profiling of cholangiocarcinoma: an expert review for best practices. Expert Rev Mol Diagn 2024; 24:393-408. [PMID: 38752560 DOI: 10.1080/14737159.2024.2353696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Advances in precision medicine have expanded access to targeted therapies and demand for molecular profiling of cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) patients in routine clinical practice. However, pathologists face challenges in establishing a definitive intrahepatic CCA (iCCA) diagnosis while preserving sufficient tissue for molecular profiling. Additionally, they frequently face challenges in optimal tissue handling to preserve nucleic acid integrity. AREAS COVERED This article first identifies the challenges in establishing a definitive diagnosis of iCCA in a lesional liver biopsy while preserving sufficient tissue for molecular profiling. Then, the authors explore the clinical value of molecular profiling, the basic principles of single gene and next-generation sequencing (NGS) techniques, and the challenges in tissue sampling for genomic testing. They also propose an algorithm for best practice in tissue management for molecular profiling of CCA. EXPERT OPINION Several practical challenges face pathologists during tissue sampling and processing for molecular profiling. Optimized tissue processing, careful tissue handling, and selection of appropriate approaches to molecular testing are essential to ensure that the highest possible quality of diagnostic information is provided in the greatest proportion of cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matt Evans
- Cellular Pathologist, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
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Zhang D, Dorman K, Westphalen CB, Haas M, Ormanns S, Neumann J, Seidensticker M, Ricke J, De Toni EN, Klauschen F, Algül H, Reisländer T, Boeck S, Heinemann V. Unresectable biliary tract cancer: Current and future systemic therapy. Eur J Cancer 2024; 203:114046. [PMID: 38626513 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2024.114046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/18/2024]
Abstract
For decades, treatment of advanced biliary tract cancer (BTC) was confined to the use of chemotherapy. In recent years however, the number of therapeutic options available for patients with unresectable BTC have drastically increased, with immunotherapy and targeted treatment gradually joining the ranks of guideline-recommended treatment regimens. The aim of the present review is to summarise the current knowledge on unresectable BTC focusing on epidemiology, anatomical distribution and current strategies for systemic treatment. We further outline ongoing clinical trials and provide an outlook on future therapeutic interventions. In the realm of gastrointestinal malignancies, the increasing number of systemic treatment options for BTC is finally delivering on the longstanding commitment to personalised oncology. This emphasises the need for considering a comprehensive genomic-based pathology assessment right from the initial diagnosis to fully leverage the expanding array of therapeutic options that have recently become accessible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danmei Zhang
- Department of Medicine III, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich and Comprehensive Cancer Center Munich, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Klara Dorman
- Department of Medicine III, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich and Comprehensive Cancer Center Munich, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - C Benedikt Westphalen
- Department of Medicine III, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich and Comprehensive Cancer Center Munich, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Michael Haas
- Department of Medicine III, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich and Comprehensive Cancer Center Munich, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377 Munich, Germany; Department of Hematology and Oncology, München Klinik Neuperlach, Munich, Germany
| | - Steffen Ormanns
- Institute of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, Germany; Innpath GmbH, Tirolkliniken, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Jens Neumann
- Institute of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, Germany
| | - Max Seidensticker
- Department of Radiology, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany
| | - Jens Ricke
- Department of Radiology, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany
| | - Enrico N De Toni
- Department of Medicine II, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany; Boehringer Ingelheim, Clinical Program Lead, Bingerstrasse 137, Ingelheim am Rhein 55218, Germany
| | | | - Hana Algül
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Munich TUM, Institute for Tumor Metabolism, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Timo Reisländer
- SERVIER Deutschland GmbH, Medical Affairs, Elsenheimerstr. 53, 80687 Munich, Germany
| | - Stefan Boeck
- Department of Medicine III, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich and Comprehensive Cancer Center Munich, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377 Munich, Germany; Department of Hematology and Oncology, München Klinik Neuperlach, Munich, Germany
| | - Volker Heinemann
- Department of Medicine III, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich and Comprehensive Cancer Center Munich, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377 Munich, Germany.
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Xu SM, Cheng Y, Fisher H, Janitz M. Recent advances in the investigation of fusion RNAs and their role in molecular pathology of cancer. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2024; 168:106529. [PMID: 38246262 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2024.106529] [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: 09/23/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Gene fusions have had a significant role in the development of various types of cancer, oftentimes involved in oncogenic activities through dysregulation of gene expression or signalling pathways. Some cancer-associated chromosomal translocations can undergo backsplicing, resulting in fusion-circular RNAs, a more stable isoform immune to RNase degradation. This stability makes fusion circular RNAs a promising diagnostic biomarker for cancer. While the detection of linear fusion RNAs and their function in certain cancers have been described in literature, fusion circular RNAs lag behind due to their low abundance in cancer cells. This review highlights current literature on the role of linear and circular fusion transcripts in cancer, tools currently available for detecting of these chimeric RNAs and their function and how they play a role in tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si-Mei Xu
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Yuning Cheng
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Harry Fisher
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Michael Janitz
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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Santana-Hernández J, Corona-Rivera A, Mendoza-Maldonado L, Santana-Bejarano UF, Cuero-Quezada I, Marquez-Mora A, Serafín-Saucedo G, Brukman-Jiménez SA, Corona-Rivera R, Ortuño-Sahagún D, Cruz-Osorio RM, Sánchez-Zubieta FA, Bobadilla-Morales L. Acute promyelocytic leukemia with PML/RARA (bcr1, bcr2 and bcr3) transcripts in a pediatric patient. Oncol Lett 2024; 27:114. [PMID: 38304177 PMCID: PMC10831402 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2024.14246] [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: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Patients with acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) exhibit the t(15;17)(q24.1;q21.2) translocation that produces the promyelocytic leukemia (PML)/retinoic acid receptor α (RARA) fusion gene. Different PML breakpoints yield three alternative molecular transcripts, bcr1, bcr2 and bcr3. The present study reports the simultaneous presence of three PML/RARA transcripts in a pediatric female patient diagnosed with APL, according to the clinical characteristics, immunophenotype and karyotype of the patient. The simultaneous presence of the PML/RARA transcripts were detected using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). This was confirmed with HemaVision-28N Multiplex RT-qPCR, HemaVision-28Q qualitative RT-qPCR and the AmpliSeq RNA Myeloid Panel. To the best of our knowledge, the pediatric patient described in the present study is the first case found to exhibit all three PML/RARA transcripts (bcr1, bcr2 and bcr3). Additionally, a microarray analysis was performed to determine the expression profile, potential predictive biomarkers and the implications of this uncommon finding. According to the information obtained from molecular monitoring, the results reported in the present study were associated with a good patient prognosis. In addition, upregulated genes that are rare in acute myeloid leukemia were identified, and these genes may be promising diagnostic biomarkers for further study. For example, CCL-1 is present in leukemic stem cells, causing treatment failure and relapse, and α- and β-defensins have been reported exclusively in chronic myeloid leukemia. However, the results of the present study confirmed that they may also be present in APL. Thus, these findings suggested a possible signaling pathway that involves the PML/RARA oncoprotein in APL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Santana-Hernández
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genomics, Human Genetics Institute ‘Dr. Enrique Corona-Rivera’, University of Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco 44340, Mexico
- Cytogenetics Unit, Civil Hospital of Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco 44340, Mexico
| | - Alfredo Corona-Rivera
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genomics, Human Genetics Institute ‘Dr. Enrique Corona-Rivera’, University of Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco 44340, Mexico
- Cytogenetics Unit, Civil Hospital of Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco 44340, Mexico
| | | | | | - Idalid Cuero-Quezada
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genomics, Human Genetics Institute ‘Dr. Enrique Corona-Rivera’, University of Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco 44340, Mexico
- Cytogenetics Unit, Civil Hospital of Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco 44340, Mexico
| | - Aurea Marquez-Mora
- Cytogenetics Unit, Civil Hospital of Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco 44340, Mexico
| | | | | | - Román Corona-Rivera
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genomics, Human Genetics Institute ‘Dr. Enrique Corona-Rivera’, University of Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco 44340, Mexico
- Cytogenetics Unit, Civil Hospital of Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco 44340, Mexico
| | - Daniel Ortuño-Sahagún
- Molecular Neuroimmunobiology Laboratory, Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, University of Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco 44340, Mexico
| | - Rosa Margarita Cruz-Osorio
- Oncohematology Service, Pediatric Division, Civil Hospital of Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco 44340, Mexico
| | | | - Lucina Bobadilla-Morales
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genomics, Human Genetics Institute ‘Dr. Enrique Corona-Rivera’, University of Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco 44340, Mexico
- Cytogenetics Unit, Civil Hospital of Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco 44340, Mexico
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Fassan M, Angerilli V, Normanno N, Pruneri G, Marchetti A, Grillo F, Tonini G, Scarpa A, Rimassa L. Practical guidelines for molecular testing of cholangiocarcinoma in clinical practice: Italian experts' position paper. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2024; 194:104224. [PMID: 38211900 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2023.104224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Biliary tract cancers (BTCs) represent a spectrum of malignancies associated with a dismal prognosis. Recent genomic profiling studies have provided a deeper understanding of the complex and heterogenous molecular landscape of BTCs, identifying several actionable genetic alterations, and expanding treatment options. Due to the high number and complexity of genetic alterations which require testing, next-generation sequencing (NGS) is currently the preferred approach over conventional methods (i.e., immunohistochemistry, fluorescence in-situ hybridization and PCR) for molecular profiling of BTCs and should be performed upfront in all BTC patients. However, BTC sampling often yields low tumor cellularity tissue, hampering NGS analysis. Future perspectives to overcome this obstacle include liquid biopsy and optimization of biopsy protocols. In this position paper, the authors discuss the current histopathologic, molecular, and therapeutic landscape of BTCs, provide a critical overview of the available testing methods for molecular diagnostics, and propose a practical diagnostic algorithm for molecular testing of BTC samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Fassan
- Department of Medicine (DIMED), University of Padua, Padua, Italy; Veneto Institute of Oncology, IOV-IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | | | - Nicola Normanno
- Cell Biology and Biotherapy Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori - IRCCS - Fondazione G. Pascale, Naples, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Pruneri
- Pathology Unit 2, Department of Innovation Diagnostics, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy; University of Milan, School of Medicine, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonio Marchetti
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, Centre for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), University of Chieti, Chieti, Italy
| | - Federica Grillo
- Pathology Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences and Integrated Diagnostics, University of Genoa, Italy; IRCCS-Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Tonini
- Medical Oncology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Roma, Italy; Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Roma, Italy
| | - Aldo Scarpa
- Section of Pathology, Department of Diagnostic and Public Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Lorenza Rimassa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy; Medical Oncology and Hematology Unit, Humanitas Cancer Center, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
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Tjota MY, Segal JP, Wang P. Clinical Utility and Benefits of Comprehensive Genomic Profiling in Cancer. J Appl Lab Med 2024; 9:76-91. [PMID: 38167763 DOI: 10.1093/jalm/jfad091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) with next-generation sequencing detects genetic alterations of hundreds of genes simultaneously and multiple molecular biomarkers with one test. In the personalized medicine era, CGP is increasingly used for cancer diagnosis, treatment selection, and prognosis prediction. CONTENT In this review, we summarize the benefits of CGP, clinical utility of CGP, and challenges of setting up CGP in the clinical laboratories. Besides the genetic alterations identified in the cancer-related genes, other biomarkers such as tumor mutational burden, microsatellite instability, and homologous recombination deficiency are critical for initiating targeted therapy. Compared with conventional tests, CGP uses less specimen and shortens the turnaround time if multiple biomarkers need to be tested. RNA fusion assay and liquid biopsy are helpful additions to DNA-based CGP by detecting fusions/splicing variants and complementing tissue-based CGP findings, respectively. SUMMARY Many previous hurdles for implementing CGP in the clinical laboratories have been gradually alleviated such as the decrease in sequencing cost, availability of both open-source and commercial bioinformatics tools, and improved reimbursement. These changes have helped to make CGP available to a greater population of cancer patients for improving characterization of their tumors and expanding their eligibility for clinical trials. Additionally, sequencing results of the hundreds of genes on CGP panels could be further analyzed to better understand the biology of various cancers and identify new biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Yuwono Tjota
- Department of Pathology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, United States
| | - Jeremy P Segal
- Department of Pathology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, United States
| | - Peng Wang
- Department of Pathology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, United States
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9
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Suurmeijer AJH, Dickson BC, Antonescu CR. Complementary value of molecular analysis to expert review in refining classification of uncommon soft tissue tumors. Genes Chromosomes Cancer 2024; 63:e23196. [PMID: 37702439 DOI: 10.1002/gcc.23196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The classification of many soft tissue tumors remains subjective due their rarity, significant overlap in microscopic features and often a non-specific immunohistochemical (IHC) profile. The application of molecular genetic tools, which leverage the underlying molecular pathogenesis of these neoplasms, have considerably improved the diagnostic abilities of pathologists and refined classification based on objective molecular markers. In this study, we describe the results of an international collaboration conducted over a 3-year period, assessing the added diagnostic value of applying molecular genetics to sarcoma expert pathologic review in a selected series of 84 uncommon, mostly unclassifiable mesenchymal tumors, 74 of which originated in soft tissues and 10 in bone. The case mix (71% historical, 29% contemporary) included mostly unusual and challenging soft tissue tumors, which remained unclassified even with the benefit of expert review and routine ancillary methods, including broad IHC panels and a limited number of commercially available fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) probes. All cases were further tested by FISH using a wide range of custom bacterial artificial chromosome probes covering most of known fusions in sarcomas, whereas targeted RNA sequencing was performed in 13 cases negative by FISH, for potential discovery of novel fusion genes. Tumor-defining molecular alterations were found in 48/84 tumors (57%). In 27 (32%) cases the tumor diagnosis was refined or revised by the additional molecular work-up, including five cases (6%), in which the updated diagnosis had clinical implications. Sarcoma classification is rapidly evolving due to an increased molecular characterization of these neoplasms, so unsurprisingly 17% of the tumors in this series harbored abnormalities only very recently described as defining novel molecularly defined soft tissue tumor subsets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert J H Suurmeijer
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Brendan C Dickson
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Cristina R Antonescu
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
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10
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Zong L, Zhu Y, Jiang Y, Xia Y, Liu Q, Jiang S. A comprehensive assessment of exome capture methods for RNA sequencing of formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded samples. BMC Genomics 2023; 24:777. [PMID: 38102591 PMCID: PMC10722801 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-023-09886-1] [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: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA-Seq analysis of Formalin-Fixed and Paraffin-Embedded (FFPE) samples has emerged as a highly effective approach and is increasingly being used in clinical research and drug development. However, the processing and storage of FFPE samples are known to cause extensive degradation of RNAs, which limits the discovery of gene expression or gene fusion-based biomarkers using RNA sequencing, particularly methods reliant on Poly(A) enrichment. Recently, researchers have developed an exome targeted RNA-Seq methodology that utilizes biotinylated oligonucleotide probes to enrich RNA transcripts of interest, which could overcome these limitations. Nevertheless, the standardization of this experimental framework, including probe designs, sample multiplexing, sequencing read length, and bioinformatic pipelines, remains an essential requirement. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive comparison of three main commercially available exome capture kits and evaluated key experimental parameters, to provide the overview of the advantages and limitations associated with the selection of library preparation protocols and sequencing platforms. The results provide valuable insights into the best practices for obtaining high-quality data from FFPE samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Zong
- Wuhan BGI Technology Service Co., Ltd. BGI-Wuhan, Wuhan, China
- College of Life and Health Sciences, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yabing Zhu
- BGI Tech Solutions Co., Ltd. BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yuan Jiang
- Wuhan BGI Technology Service Co., Ltd. BGI-Wuhan, Wuhan, China
| | - Ying Xia
- Wuhan BGI Technology Service Co., Ltd. BGI-Wuhan, Wuhan, China
| | - Qun Liu
- Wuhan BGI Technology Service Co., Ltd. BGI-Wuhan, Wuhan, China
| | - Sanjie Jiang
- BGI Tech Solutions Co., Ltd. BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China.
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11
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[Chinese Expert Consensus on the Clinical Practice of Non-small Cell Lung Cancer
Fusion Gene Detection Based on RNA-based NGS]. ZHONGGUO FEI AI ZA ZHI = CHINESE JOURNAL OF LUNG CANCER 2023; 26:801-812. [PMID: 37985137 PMCID: PMC10714047 DOI: 10.3779/j.issn.1009-3419.2023.102.43] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
RNA-based next-generation sequencing (NGS) has been recommended as a method for detecting fusion genes in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) according to clinical practice guidelines and expert consensus. The primary targetable alterations in NSCLC consist of gene mutations and fusions, making the detection of gene mutations and fusions indispensable for assessing the feasibility of targeted therapies. Currently, the integration of DNA-based NGS and RNA-based NGS allows for simultaneous detection of gene mutations and fusions and has been partially implemented in clinical practice. However, standardized guidelines and criteria for the significance, application scenarios, and quality control of RNA-based NGS in fusion gene detection are still lacking in China. This consensus aims to provide further clarity on the practical significance, application scenarios, and quality control measures of RNA-based NGS in fusion gene detection. Additionally, it offers guiding recommendations to facilitate the clinical implementation of RNA-based NGS in the diagnosis and treatment of NSCLC, ultimately maximizing the benefits for patients from fusion gene detection.
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12
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Tang X, Hu X, Wen Y, Min L. Progressive insights into fibrosarcoma diagnosis and treatment: leveraging fusion genes for advancements. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1284428. [PMID: 37920823 PMCID: PMC10618559 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1284428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrosarcoma, originating from fibroblast cells, represents a malignant neoplasm that can manifest across all genders and age groups. Fusion genes are notably prevalent within the landscape of human cancers, particularly within the subtypes of fibrosarcoma, where they exert substantial driving forces in tumorigenesis. Many fusion genes underlie the pathogenic mechanisms triggering the onset of this disease. Moreover, a close association emerges between the spectrum of fusion gene types and the phenotypic expression of fibrosarcoma, endowing fusion genes not only as promising diagnostic indicators for fibrosarcoma but also as pivotal foundations for its subcategorization. Concurrently, an increasing number of chimeric proteins encoded by fusion genes have been substantiated as specific targets for treating fibrosarcoma, consequently significantly enhancing patient prognoses. This review comprehensively delineates the mechanisms behind fusion gene formation in fibrosarcoma, the lineage of fusion genes, methodologies employed in detecting fusion genes within fibrosarcoma, and the prospects of targeted therapeutic interventions driven by fusion genes within the fibrosarcoma domain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodi Tang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Model Worker and Craftsman Talent Innovation Workshop of Sichuan Province, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xin Hu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Model Worker and Craftsman Talent Innovation Workshop of Sichuan Province, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yang Wen
- Department of Orthopedics, Zigong Fourth People’s Hospital, Zigong, China
| | - Li Min
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Model Worker and Craftsman Talent Innovation Workshop of Sichuan Province, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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13
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Sahm F, Brandner S, Bertero L, Capper D, French PJ, Figarella-Branger D, Giangaspero F, Haberler C, Hegi ME, Kristensen BW, Kurian KM, Preusser M, Tops BBJ, van den Bent M, Wick W, Reifenberger G, Wesseling P. Molecular diagnostic tools for the World Health Organization (WHO) 2021 classification of gliomas, glioneuronal and neuronal tumors; an EANO guideline. Neuro Oncol 2023; 25:1731-1749. [PMID: 37279174 PMCID: PMC10547522 DOI: 10.1093/neuonc/noad100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In the 5th edition of the WHO CNS tumor classification (CNS5, 2021), multiple molecular characteristics became essential diagnostic criteria for many additional CNS tumor types. For those tumors, an integrated, "histomolecular" diagnosis is required. A variety of approaches exists for determining the status of the underlying molecular markers. The present guideline focuses on the methods that can be used for assessment of the currently most informative diagnostic and prognostic molecular markers for the diagnosis of gliomas, glioneuronal and neuronal tumors. The main characteristics of the molecular methods are systematically discussed, followed by recommendations and information on available evidence levels for diagnostic measures. The recommendations cover DNA and RNA next-generation-sequencing, methylome profiling, and select assays for single/limited target analyses, including immunohistochemistry. Additionally, because of its importance as a predictive marker in IDH-wildtype glioblastomas, tools for the analysis of MGMT promoter methylation status are covered. A structured overview of the different assays with their characteristics, especially their advantages and limitations, is provided, and requirements for input material and reporting of results are clarified. General aspects of molecular diagnostic testing regarding clinical relevance, accessibility, cost, implementation, regulatory, and ethical aspects are discussed as well. Finally, we provide an outlook on new developments in the landscape of molecular testing technologies in neuro-oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Sahm
- Department of Neuropathology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- CCU Neuropathology, German Concortium for Translational Cancer Research (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sebastian Brandner
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology and Division of Neuropathology, The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Luca Bertero
- Pathology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - David Capper
- Department of Neuropathology, Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Berlin, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Pim J French
- Department of Neurology, Brain Tumor Center at Erasmus MC Cancer Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Dominique Figarella-Branger
- Aix-Marseille University, APHM, CNRS, INP, Institute Neurophysiopathol, CHU Timone, Service d’Anatomie Pathologique et de Neuropathologie, Marseille, France
| | - Felice Giangaspero
- Department of Radiological, Oncological and Anatomo-Pathological Sciences, University Sapienza of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Christine Haberler
- Division of Neuropathology and Neurochemistry, Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Monika E Hegi
- Neuroscience Research Center and Neurosurgery, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Bjarne W Kristensen
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Biotech Research and Innovation Center (BRIC), University of Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Pathology, The Bartholin Institute, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Matthias Preusser
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Bastiaan B J Tops
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Martin van den Bent
- The Brain Tumor Center at Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wolfgang Wick
- Department of Neurology and Neurooncology Program, National Center for Tumor Diseases, Heidelberg University Hospital
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Guido Reifenberger
- Institute of Neuropathology, Heinrich Heine University, Medical Faculty, and University Hospital Düsseldorf, and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Essen/Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Pieter Wesseling
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands (P.W.)
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14
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Stelloo E, Meijers RWJ, Swennenhuis JF, Allahyar A, Hajo K, Cangiano M, de Leng WWJ, van Helvert S, Van der Meulen J, Creytens D, van Kempen LC, Cleton-Jansen AM, Bovee JVMG, de Laat W, Splinter E, Feitsma H. Formalin-Fixed, Paraffin-Embedded-Targeted Locus Capture: A Next-Generation Sequencing Technology for Accurate DNA-Based Gene Fusion Detection in Bone and Soft Tissue Tumors. J Mol Diagn 2023; 25:758-770. [PMID: 37517473 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmoldx.2023.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Chromosomal rearrangements are important drivers in cancer, and their robust detection is essential for diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment selection, particularly for bone and soft tissue tumors. Current diagnostic methods are hindered by limitations, including difficulties with multiplexing targets and poor quality of RNA. A novel targeted DNA-based next-generation sequencing method, formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded-targeted locus capture (FFPE-TLC), has shown advantages over current diagnostic methods when applied on FFPE lymphomas, including the ability to detect novel rearrangements. We evaluated the utility of FFPE-TLC in bone and soft tissue tumor diagnostics. FFPE-TLC sequencing was successfully applied on noncalcified and decalcified FFPE samples (n = 44) and control samples (n = 19). In total, 58 rearrangements were identified in 40 FFPE tumor samples, including three previously negative samples, and none was identified in the FFPE control samples. In all five discordant cases, FFPE-TLC could identify gene fusions where other methods had failed due to either detection limits or poor sample quality. FFPE-TLC achieved a high specificity and sensitivity (no false positives and negatives). These results indicate that FFPE-TLC is applicable in cancer diagnostics to simultaneously analyze many genes for their involvement in gene fusions. Similar to the observation in lymphomas, FFPE-TLC is a good DNA-based alternative to the conventional methods for detection of rearrangements in bone and soft tissue tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ruud W J Meijers
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | | | - Amin Allahyar
- Oncode Institute, Hubrecht Institute-Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, and University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Wendy W J de Leng
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Sjoerd van Helvert
- Department of Pathology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | | | - David Creytens
- Department of Pathology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Léon C van Kempen
- Department of Pathology, University Hospital Antwerp, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium; Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | | | - Judith V M G Bovee
- Department of Pathology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Wouter de Laat
- Oncode Institute, Hubrecht Institute-Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, and University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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15
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Chen H, Wang B, Zhang Y, Shu Y, Dong H, Zhao Q, Yang C, Li J, Duan X, Zhou Q. A unified DNA- and RNA-based NGS strategy for the analysis of multiple types of variants at the dual nucleic acid level in solid tumors. J Clin Lab Anal 2023; 37:e24977. [PMID: 37877443 PMCID: PMC10681543 DOI: 10.1002/jcla.24977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) is a powerful and suitable approach to comprehensively identify multiple types of variants in tumors. RNA-based NGS is increasingly playing an important role in precision oncology. Both parallel and sequential DNA- and RNA-based approaches are expensive, burdensome, and have long turnaround times, which can be impractical in clinical practice. A streamlined, unified DNA- and RNA-based NGS approach is urgently needed in clinical practice. METHODS A DNA/RNA co-hybrid capture sequencing (DRCC-Seq) approach was designed to capture pre-capture DNA and RNA libraries in a single tube and convert them into one NGS library. The performance of the DRCC-Seq approach was evaluated by a panel of reference standards and clinical samples. RESULTS The average depth, DNA data ratio, capture ratio, and target coverage 250 (×) of the DNA panel data had a negative correlation with an increase in the proportion of RNA probes. The SNVs, indels, fusions, and MSI status were not affected by the proportion of RNA probes, but the copy numbers of the target genes were higher than expected in the standard materials, and many unexpected gene amplifications were found using D:R (1:2) and D:R (1:4) probe panels. The optimal ratio of DNA and RNA probes in the combined probe panel was 1:1 using the DRCC-Seq approach. The DRCC-Seq approach was feasible and reliable for detecting multiple types of variants in reference standards and real-world clinical samples. CONCLUSIONS The DRCC-Seq approach is more cost-effective, with a shorter turnaround time and lower labor requirements than either parallel or sequential targeted DNA NGS and RNA NGS. It is feasible to identify multiple genetic variations at the DNA and RNA levels simultaneously in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huijuan Chen
- ChosenMed Clinical Laboratory (Beijing) Co. Ltd.BeijingChina
- Computer Network Information Center, Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- WillingMed Technology Beijing Co., Ltd.BeijingChina
| | - Bing Wang
- ChosenMed Clinical Laboratory (Beijing) Co. Ltd.BeijingChina
| | - Yiran Zhang
- ChosenMed Clinical Laboratory (Beijing) Co. Ltd.BeijingChina
| | - Yingshuang Shu
- ChosenMed Clinical Laboratory (Beijing) Co. Ltd.BeijingChina
| | - Henan Dong
- ChosenMed Clinical Laboratory (Beijing) Co. Ltd.BeijingChina
| | - Qian Zhao
- ChosenMed Clinical Laboratory (Beijing) Co. Ltd.BeijingChina
| | - Chunyan Yang
- ChosenMed Clinical Laboratory (Beijing) Co. Ltd.BeijingChina
| | - Jianji Li
- ChosenMed Clinical Laboratory (Beijing) Co. Ltd.BeijingChina
| | - Xiaohong Duan
- ChosenMed Clinical Laboratory (Beijing) Co. Ltd.BeijingChina
- ChosenMed Technology (Zhejiang) Co. Ltd.ZhejiangChina
- Institute of Disaster and Emergency Medicine, Medical CollegeTianjin UniversityTianJinChina
| | - Qiming Zhou
- ChosenMed Clinical Laboratory (Beijing) Co. Ltd.BeijingChina
- ChosenMed Technology (Zhejiang) Co. Ltd.ZhejiangChina
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16
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Yi D, Nam JW, Jeong H. Toward the functional interpretation of somatic structural variations: bulk- and single-cell approaches. Brief Bioinform 2023; 24:bbad297. [PMID: 37587831 PMCID: PMC10516374 DOI: 10.1093/bib/bbad297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Structural variants (SVs) are genomic rearrangements that can take many different forms such as copy number alterations, inversions and translocations. During cell development and aging, somatic SVs accumulate in the genome with potentially neutral, deleterious or pathological effects. Generation of somatic SVs is a key mutational process in cancer development and progression. Despite their importance, the detection of somatic SVs is challenging, making them less studied than somatic single-nucleotide variants. In this review, we summarize recent advances in whole-genome sequencing (WGS)-based approaches for detecting somatic SVs at the tissue and single-cell levels and discuss their advantages and limitations. First, we describe the state-of-the-art computational algorithms for somatic SV calling using bulk WGS data and compare the performance of somatic SV detectors in the presence or absence of a matched-normal control. We then discuss the unique features of cutting-edge single-cell-based techniques for analyzing somatic SVs. The advantages and disadvantages of bulk and single-cell approaches are highlighted, along with a discussion of their sensitivity to copy-neutral SVs, usefulness for functional inferences and experimental and computational costs. Finally, computational approaches for linking somatic SVs to their functional readouts, such as those obtained from single-cell transcriptome and epigenome analyses, are illustrated, with a discussion of the promise of these approaches in health and diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dohun Yi
- Department of Life Science, College of Natural Sciences, Hanyang University, Wangsimni-ro 222, Seongdong-gu, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Wu Nam
- Department of Life Science, College of Natural Sciences, Hanyang University, Wangsimni-ro 222, Seongdong-gu, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea
- Research Institute for Convergence of Basic Sciences, Hanyang University, Wangsimni-ro 222, Seongdong-gu, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea
- Bio-BigData Center, Hanyang Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hanyang University, Wangsimni-ro 222, Seongdong-gu, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea
- Hanyang Institute of Advanced BioConvergence, Hanyang University, Wangsimni-ro 222, Seongdong-gu, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyobin Jeong
- Department of Life Science, College of Natural Sciences, Hanyang University, Wangsimni-ro 222, Seongdong-gu, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea
- Bio-BigData Center, Hanyang Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hanyang University, Wangsimni-ro 222, Seongdong-gu, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea
- Hanyang Institute of Advanced BioConvergence, Hanyang University, Wangsimni-ro 222, Seongdong-gu, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea
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17
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Powell SK, Kulakova K, Kennedy S. A Review of the Molecular Landscape of Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma of the Lacrimal Gland. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13755. [PMID: 37762061 PMCID: PMC10530759 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241813755] [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: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) has a worldwide incidence of three to four cases per million population. Although more cases occur in the minor and major salivary glands, it is the most common lacrimal gland malignancy. ACC has a low-grade, indolent histological appearance, but is relentlessly progressive over time and has a strong proclivity to recur and/or metastasise. Current treatment options are limited to complete surgical excision and adjuvant radiotherapy. Intra-arterial systemic therapy is a recent innovation. Recurrent/metastatic disease is common due to perineural invasion, and it is largely untreatable as it is refractory to conventional chemotherapeutic agents. Given the rarity of this tumour, the molecular mechanisms that govern disease pathogenesis are poorly understood. There is an unmet, critical need to develop effective, personalised targeted therapies for the treatment of ACC in order to reduce morbidity and mortality associated with the disease. This review details the evidence relating to the molecular underpinnings of ACC of the lacrimal gland, including the MYB-NFIB chromosomal translocations, Notch-signalling pathway aberrations, DNA damage repair gene mutations and epigenetic modifications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Kate Powell
- Research Foundation, Royal Victoria Eye and Ear Hospital, D02 XK51 Dublin, Ireland; (K.K.); (S.K.)
| | - Karina Kulakova
- Research Foundation, Royal Victoria Eye and Ear Hospital, D02 XK51 Dublin, Ireland; (K.K.); (S.K.)
- Department of Biotechnology, Dublin City University, D09 V209 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Susan Kennedy
- Research Foundation, Royal Victoria Eye and Ear Hospital, D02 XK51 Dublin, Ireland; (K.K.); (S.K.)
- National Ophthalmic Pathology Laboratory, D04 T6F6 Dublin, Ireland
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18
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Tsai HK, Gogakos T, Lip V, Tsai JM, Li YD, Fisch AS, Weiss J, Yang W, Grimmett L, DiToro D, Schaefer EJ, Lindsley RC, Tran TH, Caron M, Langlois S, Sinnett D, Pikman Y, Nardi V, Kim AS, Silverman LB, Harris MH. Outlier Expression of Isoforms by Targeted or Total RNA Sequencing Identifies Clinically Significant Genomic Variants in Hematolymphoid Tumors. J Mol Diagn 2023; 25:665-681. [PMID: 37419244 PMCID: PMC10488324 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmoldx.2023.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Recognition of aberrant gene isoforms due to DNA events can impact risk stratification and molecular classification of hematolymphoid tumors. In myelodysplastic syndromes, KMT2A partial tandem duplication (PTD) was one of the top adverse predictors in the International Prognostic Scoring System-Molecular study. In B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL), ERG isoforms have been proposed as markers of favorable-risk DUX4 rearrangements, whereas deletion-mediated IKZF1 isoforms are associated with adverse prognosis and have been extended to the high-risk IKZF1plus signature defined by codeletions, including PAX5. In this limited study, outlier expression of isoforms as markers of IKZF1 intragenic or 3' deletions, DUX4 rearrangements, or PAX5 intragenic deletions were 92.3% (48/52), 90% (9/10), or 100% (9/9) sensitive, respectively, and 98.7% (368/373), 100% (35/35), or 97.1% (102/105) specific, respectively, by targeted RNA sequencing, and 84.0% (21/25), 85.7% (6/7), or 81.8% (9/11) sensitive, respectively, and 98.2% (109/111), 98.4% (127/129), or 98.7% (78/79) specific, respectively, by total RNA sequencing. Comprehensive split-read analysis identified expressed DNA breakpoints, cryptic splice sites associated with IKZF1 3' deletions, PTD of IKZF1 exon 5 spanning N159Y in B-ALL with mutated IKZF1 N159Y, and truncated KMT2A-PTD isoforms. Outlier isoforms were also effective targeted RNA markers for PAX5 intragenic amplifications (B-ALL), KMT2A-PTD (myeloid malignant cancers), and rare NOTCH1 intragenic deletions (T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia). These findings support the use of outlier isoform analysis as a robust strategy for detecting clinically significant DNA events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harrison K Tsai
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
| | - Tasos Gogakos
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Va Lip
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jonathan M Tsai
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Yen-Der Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Adam S Fisch
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jonathan Weiss
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Weiping Yang
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Leslie Grimmett
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Daniel DiToro
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Eva J Schaefer
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - R Coleman Lindsley
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Thai Hoa Tran
- Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Immune Diseases and Cancers Axis, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Maxime Caron
- Immune Diseases and Cancers Axis, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Sylvie Langlois
- Immune Diseases and Cancers Axis, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Daniel Sinnett
- Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Immune Diseases and Cancers Axis, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Yana Pikman
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Valentina Nardi
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Annette S Kim
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Lewis B Silverman
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Marian H Harris
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
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19
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Saldivar JS, Harris J, Ayash E, Hong M, Tandon P, Sinha S, Hebron PM, Houghton EE, Thorne K, Goodman LJ, Li C, Marfatia TR, Anderson J, Morra M, Lyle J, Bartha G, Chen R. Analytic validation of NeXT Dx™, a comprehensive genomic profiling assay. Oncotarget 2023; 14:789-806. [PMID: 37646774 PMCID: PMC10467627 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.28490] [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: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
We describe the analytic validation of NeXT Dx, a comprehensive genomic profiling assay to aid therapy and clinical trial selection for patients diagnosed with solid tumor cancers. Proprietary methods were utilized to perform whole exome and whole transcriptome sequencing for detection of single nucleotide variants (SNVs), insertions/deletions (indels), copy number alterations (CNAs), and gene fusions, and determination of tumor mutation burden and microsatellite instability. Variant calling is enhanced by sequencing a patient-specific normal sample from, for example, a blood specimen. This provides highly accurate somatic variant calls as well as the incidental reporting of pathogenic and likely pathogenic germline alterations. Fusion detection via RNA sequencing provides more extensive and accurate fusion calling compared to DNA-based tests. NeXT Dx features the proprietary Accuracy and Content Enhanced technology, developed to optimize sequencing and provide more uniform coverage across the exome. The exome was validated at a median sequencing depth of >500x. While variants from 401 cancer-associated genes are currently reported from the assay, the exome/transcriptome assay is broadly validated to enable reporting of additional variants as they become clinically relevant. NeXT Dx demonstrated analytic sensitivities as follows: SNVs (99.4%), indels (98.2%), CNAs (98.0%), and fusions (95.8%). The overall analytic specificity was >99.0%.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jason Harris
- Personalis, Inc., Fremont, CA 94555, USA
- These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Erin Ayash
- Personalis, Inc., Fremont, CA 94555, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Conan Li
- Personalis, Inc., Fremont, CA 94555, USA
| | | | | | | | - John Lyle
- Personalis, Inc., Fremont, CA 94555, USA
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20
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Lee TD, Aisner DL, David MP, Eno CC, Gagan J, Gocke CD, Guseva NV, Haley L, Jajosky AN, Jones D, Mansukhani MM, Mroz P, Murray SS, Newsom KJ, Paulson V, Roy S, Rushton C, Segal JP, Senaratne TN, Siddon AJ, Starostik P, Van Ziffle JAG, Wu D, Xian RR, Yohe S, Kim AS. Current clinical practices and challenges in molecular testing: a GOAL Consortium Hematopathology Working Group report. Blood Adv 2023; 7:4599-4607. [PMID: 37236162 PMCID: PMC10425685 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2023010149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
While molecular testing of hematologic malignancies is now standard of care, there is variability in practice and testing capabilities between different academic laboratories, with common questions arising on how to best meet clinical expectations. A survey was sent to hematopathology subgroup members of the Genomics Organization for Academic Laboratories consortium to assess current and future practice and potentially establish a reference for peer institutions. Responses were received from 18 academic tertiary-care laboratories regarding next-generation sequencing (NGS) panel design, sequencing protocols and metrics, assay characteristics, laboratory operations, case reimbursement, and development plans. Differences in NGS panel size, use, and gene content were reported. Gene content for myeloid processes was reported to be generally excellent, while genes for lymphoid processes were less well covered. The turnaround time (TAT) for acute cases, including acute myeloid leukemia, was reported to range from 2 to 7 calendar days to 15 to 21 calendar days, with different approaches to achieving rapid TAT described. To help guide NGS panel design and standardize gene content, consensus gene lists based on current and future NGS panels in development were generated. Most survey respondents expected molecular testing at academic laboratories to continue to be viable in the future, with rapid TAT for acute cases likely to remain an important factor. Molecular testing reimbursement was reported to be a major concern. The results of this survey and subsequent discussions improve the shared understanding of differences in testing practices for hematologic malignancies between institutions and will help provide a more consistent level of patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas D. Lee
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Dara L. Aisner
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO
| | - Marjorie P. David
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX
| | - Celeste C. Eno
- Department of Pathology and Lab Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Jeffrey Gagan
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, TX
| | - Christopher D. Gocke
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | | | - Lisa Haley
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Audrey N. Jajosky
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY
| | - Daniel Jones
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| | - Mahesh M. Mansukhani
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY
| | - Pawel Mroz
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Sarah S. Murray
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Kimberly J. Newsom
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Vera Paulson
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Somak Roy
- Department of Pathology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Chase Rushton
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine at University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | | | - T. Niroshini Senaratne
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Alexa J. Siddon
- Departments of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - Petr Starostik
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | | | - David Wu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Rena R. Xian
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Sophia Yohe
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Annette S. Kim
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
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21
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Wang F, Xu Y, Wang R, Zhang B, Smith N, Notaro A, Gaerlan S, Kutschera E, Kadash-Edmondson KE, Xing Y, Lin L. TEQUILA-seq: a versatile and low-cost method for targeted long-read RNA sequencing. Nat Commun 2023; 14:4760. [PMID: 37553321 PMCID: PMC10409798 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40083-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Long-read RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) is a powerful technology for transcriptome analysis, but the relatively low throughput of current long-read sequencing platforms limits transcript coverage. One strategy for overcoming this bottleneck is targeted long-read RNA-seq for preselected gene panels. We present TEQUILA-seq, a versatile, easy-to-implement, and low-cost method for targeted long-read RNA-seq utilizing isothermally linear-amplified capture probes. When performed on the Oxford nanopore platform with multiple gene panels of varying sizes, TEQUILA-seq consistently and substantially enriches transcript coverage while preserving transcript quantification. We profile full-length transcript isoforms of 468 actionable cancer genes across 40 representative breast cancer cell lines. We identify transcript isoforms enriched in specific subtypes and discover novel transcript isoforms in extensively studied cancer genes such as TP53. Among cancer genes, tumor suppressor genes (TSGs) are significantly enriched for aberrant transcript isoforms targeted for degradation via mRNA nonsense-mediated decay, revealing a common RNA-associated mechanism for TSG inactivation. TEQUILA-seq reduces the per-reaction cost of targeted capture by 2-3 orders of magnitude, as compared to a standard commercial solution. TEQUILA-seq can be broadly used for targeted sequencing of full-length transcripts in diverse biomedical research settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Wang
- Center for Computational and Genomic Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Yang Xu
- Center for Computational and Genomic Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Graduate Group in Genomics and Computational Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Robert Wang
- Center for Computational and Genomic Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Graduate Group in Genomics and Computational Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Beatrice Zhang
- Center for Computational and Genomic Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Noah Smith
- Center for Computational and Genomic Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Amber Notaro
- Center for Computational and Genomic Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Samantha Gaerlan
- Center for Computational and Genomic Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Eric Kutschera
- Center for Computational and Genomic Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Kathryn E Kadash-Edmondson
- Center for Computational and Genomic Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Yi Xing
- Center for Computational and Genomic Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Department of Biomedical and Health Informatics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Lan Lin
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Raymond G. Perelman Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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22
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Salokas K, Dashi G, Varjosalo M. Decoding Oncofusions: Unveiling Mechanisms, Clinical Impact, and Prospects for Personalized Cancer Therapies. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3678. [PMID: 37509339 PMCID: PMC10377698 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15143678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated gene fusions, also known as oncofusions, have emerged as influential drivers of oncogenesis across a diverse range of cancer types. These genetic events occur via chromosomal translocations, deletions, and inversions, leading to the fusion of previously separate genes. Due to the drastic nature of these mutations, they often result in profound alterations of cellular behavior. The identification of oncofusions has revolutionized cancer research, with advancements in sequencing technologies facilitating the discovery of novel fusion events at an accelerated pace. Oncofusions exert their effects through the manipulation of critical cellular signaling pathways that regulate processes such as proliferation, differentiation, and survival. Extensive investigations have been conducted to understand the roles of oncofusions in solid tumors, leukemias, and lymphomas. Large-scale initiatives, including the Cancer Genome Atlas, have played a pivotal role in unraveling the landscape of oncofusions by characterizing a vast number of cancer samples across different tumor types. While validating the functional relevance of oncofusions remains a challenge, even non-driver mutations can hold significance in cancer treatment. Oncofusions have demonstrated potential value in the context of immunotherapy through the production of neoantigens. Their clinical importance has been observed in both treatment and diagnostic settings, with specific fusion events serving as therapeutic targets or diagnostic markers. However, despite the progress made, there is still considerable untapped potential within the field of oncofusions. Further research and validation efforts are necessary to understand their effects on a functional basis and to exploit the new targeted treatment avenues offered by oncofusions. Through further functional and clinical studies, oncofusions will enable the advancement of precision medicine and the drive towards more effective and specific treatments for cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kari Salokas
- Institute of Biotechnology, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, 00790 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Giovanna Dashi
- Institute of Biotechnology, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, 00790 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Markku Varjosalo
- Institute of Biotechnology, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, 00790 Helsinki, Finland
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23
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Drazdauskienė U, Kapustina Ž, Medžiūnė J, Dubovskaja V, Sabaliauskaitė R, Jarmalaitė S, Lubys A. Fusion sequencing via terminator-assisted synthesis (FTAS-seq) identifies TMPRSS2 fusion partners in prostate cancer. Mol Oncol 2023; 17:993-1006. [PMID: 37300660 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 02/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetic rearrangements that fuse an androgen-regulated promoter area with a protein-coding portion of an originally androgen-unaffected gene are frequent in prostate cancer, with the fusion between transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2) and ETS transcription factor ERG (ERG) (TMPRSS2-ERG fusion) being the most prevalent. Conventional hybridization- or amplification-based methods can test for the presence of expected gene fusions, but the exploratory analysis of currently unknown fusion partners is often cost-prohibitive. Here, we developed an innovative next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based approach for gene fusion analysis termed fusion sequencing via terminator-assisted synthesis (FTAS-seq). FTAS-seq can be used to enrich the gene of interest while simultaneously profiling the whole spectrum of its 3'-terminal fusion partners. Using this novel semi-targeted RNA-sequencing technique, we were able to identify 11 previously uncharacterized TMPRSS2 fusion partners and capture a range of TMPRSS2-ERG isoforms. We tested the performance of FTAS-seq with well-characterized prostate cancer cell lines and utilized the technique for the analysis of patient RNA samples. FTAS-seq chemistry combined with appropriate primer panels holds great potential as a tool for biomarker discovery that can support the development of personalized cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Sonata Jarmalaitė
- National Cancer Institute, Vilnius, Lithuania
- Institute of Biosciences, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, Lithuania
| | - Arvydas Lubys
- Thermo Fisher Scientific Baltics, Vilnius, Lithuania
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24
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Van Thillo Q, Dewaele B, De Bie J, Michaux L, Devos T, Vandenberghe P. Revisiting a case of idiopathic hypereosinophilic syndrome with novel molecular techniques identifies a second case of a myeloid/lymphoid neoplasm with a SART3::PDGFRB fusion. Br J Haematol 2023. [PMID: 37129059 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.18849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jolien De Bie
- Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Timothy Devos
- Department of Haematology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Laboratory of Molecular Immunology (Rega Institute), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Peter Vandenberghe
- Department of Haematology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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25
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Albitar M, Zhang H, Charifa A, Ip A, Ma W, McCloskey J, Donato M, Siegel D, Waintraub S, Gutierrez M, Pecora A, Goy A. Combining cell-free RNA with cell-free DNA in liquid biopsy for hematologic and solid tumors. Heliyon 2023; 9:e16261. [PMID: 37251903 PMCID: PMC10208940 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e16261] [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: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 05/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Current use of liquid biopsy is based on cell-free DNA (cfDNA) and the evaluation of mutations or methylation pattern. However, expressed RNA can capture mutations, changes in expression levels due to methylation, and provide information on cell of origin, growth, and proliferation status. We developed an approach to isolate cell-free total nucleic acid (cfDNA) and used targeted next generation sequencing to sequence cell-free RNA (cfRNA) and cfDNA as new approach in liquid biopsy. We demonstrate that cfRNA is overall more sensitive than cfDNA in detecting mutations. We show that cfRNA is reliable in detecting fusion genes and cfDNA is reliable in detecting chromosomal gains and losses. cfRNA levels of various solid tumor biomarkers were significantly higher (P < 0.0001) in samples from solid tumors as compared with normal control. Similarly, cfRNA lymphoid markers and cfRNA myeloid markers were all higher in lymphoid and myeloid neoplasms, respectively as compared with control (P < 0.0001). Using machine learning we demonstrate cfRNA was highly predictive of diagnosis (AUC >0.98) of solid tumors, B-cell lymphoid neoplasms, T-cell lymphoid neoplasms, and myeloid neoplasms. In evaluating the host immune system, cfRNA CD4:CD8B and CD3D:CD19 ratios in normal controls were as expected (median: 5.92 and 6.87, respectively) and were significantly lower in solid tumors (P < 0.0002). This data suggests that liquid biopsy combining analysis of cfRNA with cfDNA is practical and may provide helpful information in predicting genomic abnormalities, diagnosis of neoplasms and evaluating both the tumor biology and the host response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maher Albitar
- Genomic Testing Cooperative, LCA, Irvine, CA, 92618, USA
| | - Hong Zhang
- Genomic Testing Cooperative, LCA, Irvine, CA, 92618, USA
| | - Ahmad Charifa
- Genomic Testing Cooperative, LCA, Irvine, CA, 92618, USA
| | - Andrew Ip
- John Theurer Cancer Center at Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, NJ, 07601, USA
| | - Wanlong Ma
- Genomic Testing Cooperative, LCA, Irvine, CA, 92618, USA
| | - James McCloskey
- John Theurer Cancer Center at Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, NJ, 07601, USA
| | - Michele Donato
- John Theurer Cancer Center at Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, NJ, 07601, USA
| | - David Siegel
- John Theurer Cancer Center at Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, NJ, 07601, USA
| | - Stanley Waintraub
- John Theurer Cancer Center at Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, NJ, 07601, USA
| | - Martin Gutierrez
- John Theurer Cancer Center at Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, NJ, 07601, USA
| | - Andrew Pecora
- John Theurer Cancer Center at Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, NJ, 07601, USA
| | - Andre Goy
- John Theurer Cancer Center at Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, NJ, 07601, USA
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26
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Oreper D, Klaeger S, Jhunjhunwala S, Delamarre L. The peptide woods are lovely, dark and deep: Hunting for novel cancer antigens. Semin Immunol 2023; 67:101758. [PMID: 37027981 DOI: 10.1016/j.smim.2023.101758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
Harnessing the patient's immune system to control a tumor is a proven avenue for cancer therapy. T cell therapies as well as therapeutic vaccines, which target specific antigens of interest, are being explored as treatments in conjunction with immune checkpoint blockade. For these therapies, selecting the best suited antigens is crucial. Most of the focus has thus far been on neoantigens that arise from tumor-specific somatic mutations. Although there is clear evidence that T-cell responses against mutated neoantigens are protective, the large majority of these mutations are not immunogenic. In addition, most somatic mutations are unique to each individual patient and their targeting requires the development of individualized approaches. Therefore, novel antigen types are needed to broaden the scope of such treatments. We review high throughput approaches for discovering novel tumor antigens and some of the key challenges associated with their detection, and discuss considerations when selecting tumor antigens to target in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Oreper
- Genentech, 1 DNA way, South San Francisco, 94080 CA, USA.
| | - Susan Klaeger
- Genentech, 1 DNA way, South San Francisco, 94080 CA, USA.
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27
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Angerilli V, Fornaro L, Pepe F, Rossi SM, Perrone G, Malapelle U, Fassan M. FGFR2 testing in cholangiocarcinoma: translating molecular studies into clinical practice. Pathologica 2023; 115:71-82. [PMID: 37017301 PMCID: PMC10462997 DOI: 10.32074/1591-951x-859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a heterogeneous group of neoplasms burdened by a dismal prognosis. Several studies have investigated the genomic profile of CCA and identified numerous druggable genetic alterations, including FGFR2 fusions/rearrangements. Approximately 5-7% of CCAs and 10-20% of intrahepatic iCCAs harbor FGFR2 fusions. With the recent advent of FGFR-targeting therapies into clinical practice, a standardization of molecular testing for FGFR2 alterations in CCA will be necessary. In this review, we describe the technical aspects and challenges related to FGFR2 testing in routine practice, focusing on the comparison between Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) and FISH assays, the best timing to perform the test, and on the role of liquid biopsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Angerilli
- Department of Medicine (DIMED), Surgical Pathology Unit, University of Padua, Padua (PD), Italy
| | - Lorenzo Fornaro
- Medical Oncology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Pisa (PI), Italy
| | - Francesco Pepe
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples (NA), Italy
| | - Silvia Maria Rossi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Research Unit of Anatomical Pathology, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Roma, Italy
- Anatomical Pathology Operative Research Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Roma, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Perrone
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Research Unit of Anatomical Pathology, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Roma, Italy
- Anatomical Pathology Operative Research Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Roma, Italy
| | - Umberto Malapelle
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples (NA), Italy
| | - Matteo Fassan
- Department of Medicine (DIMED), Surgical Pathology Unit, University of Padua, Padua (PD), Italy
- Veneto Institute of Oncology, IOV - IRCCS, Padua (PD), Italy
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28
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Xu D, Tang L, Kapranov P. Complexities of mammalian transcriptome revealed by targeted RNA enrichment techniques. Trends Genet 2023; 39:320-333. [PMID: 36681580 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2022.12.004] [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: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Studies using highly sensitive targeted RNA enrichment methods have shown that a large portion of the human transcriptome remains to be discovered and that most of the genome is transcribed in a complex, interleaved fashion characterized by a complex web of transcripts emanating from protein coding and noncoding loci. These results resonate with those from single-cell transcriptome profiling endeavors that reveal the existence of multiple novel, cell type-specific transcripts and clearly demonstrate that our understanding of the complexities of the human transcriptome is far from being complete. Here, we review the current status of the targeted RNA enrichment techniques, their application to the discovery of novel cell type-specific transcripts, and their impact on our understanding of the human genome and transcriptome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongyang Xu
- Institute of Genomics, School of Medicine, Huaqiao University, 668 Jimei Road, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Lu Tang
- Institute of Genomics, School of Medicine, Huaqiao University, 668 Jimei Road, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Philipp Kapranov
- Institute of Genomics, School of Medicine, Huaqiao University, 668 Jimei Road, Xiamen 361021, China.
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29
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Yang W, Zhao X, Zheng A, Liu Z, Ma J, Zhang X, Li W, Wang D, Zhu J, Tao H, Zhang Y, Ma T, Liu Q. Identification of MET fusions in solid tumors: A multicenter, large scale study in China. Int J Cancer 2023; 152:1259-1268. [PMID: 36408924 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.34361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Revised: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
MET amplification and exon 14 skipping are well known as oncogenic drivers in multiple cancer types. However, MET fusions in most cancer types are poorly defined. To explore the profile and analyze the characteristics of MET fusions, a large-cohort study was conducted to screen MET fusions in clinical samples (n = 10 882) using DNA-based NGS. A total of 37 potentially functional MET fusions containing the intact tyrosine kinase domain (TKD) of MET were identified in 36 samples. Further, 15 novel MET fusions were identified in five cancer types, and the incidence of novel MET fusions accounted for 40.5% (15/37). Brain cancer had the highest incidence of MET fusion, with PTPRZ1-MET as the most common fusion (37.0%). All MET breakpoints in brain cancer (n = 27) were also located in intron 1, while those in lung cancer (n = 4) occurred in intron 1, intron 11, intron 14 and exon 14, respectively. The positive consistency of the common fusion group was 100% (11/11), while that of the rare fusion group was 53.8% (7/13). In conclusion, we provided a comprehensive genomic landscape of MET rearrangement and updated the MET fusions database for clinical test. In addition, we revealed that DNA-based NGS might serve as the clinical test for common MET fusions; however, rare MET fusions must be validated by both DNA-based NGS and RNA-based NGS. Prospective trials are necessary to confirm the treatment efficacy of MET inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhui Yang
- Department of Digestive Oncology, Cancer Center, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Ximeng Zhao
- Jichenjunchuang Clinical Laboratory, Hangzhou, China
| | - Aiwen Zheng
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhengchuang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jie Ma
- Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiang Zhang
- Jichenjunchuang Clinical Laboratory, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wei Li
- Jichenjunchuang Clinical Laboratory, Hangzhou, China
| | - Dan Wang
- Jichenjunchuang Clinical Laboratory, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jianhua Zhu
- Jichenjunchuang Clinical Laboratory, Hangzhou, China
| | - Houquan Tao
- Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | | | - Tonghui Ma
- Jichenjunchuang Clinical Laboratory, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qing Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital Central South University, Changsha, China
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30
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Vargas AC, Heyer EE, Cheah AL, Bonar F, Jones M, Maclean FM, Gill AJ, Blackburn J. Improving sarcoma classification by using RNA hybridisation capture sequencing in sarcomas of uncertain histogenesis of young individuals. Pathology 2023; 55:478-485. [PMID: 36906400 DOI: 10.1016/j.pathol.2022.11.012] [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: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
Our aim was to utilise a 241-gene RNA hybridisation capture sequencing (CaptureSeq) gene panel to identify unexpected fusions in undifferentiated, unclassified or partly classified sarcomas of young individuals (<40 years). The purpose was to determine the utility and yield of a large, targeted fusion panel as a tool for classifying tumours that do not fit typical diagnostic entities at the time of the original diagnosis. RNA hybridisation capture sequencing was performed on 21 archival resection specimens. Successful sequencing was obtained in 12 of 21 samples (57%), two of which (16.6%) harboured translocations. A novel NEAT1::GLI1 fusion, not previously reported in the literature, presented in a young patient with a tumour in the retroperitoneum, which displayed low grade epithelioid cells. The second case, a localised lung metastasis in a young male, demonstrated a EWSR1::NFATC2 translocation. No targeted fusions were identified in the remaining 83.4% (n=10) of cases. Forty-three per cent of the samples failed sequencing as a result of RNA degradation. RNA-based sequencing is an important tool, which helps to redefine the classification of unclassified or partly classified sarcomas of young adults by identifying pathogenic gene fusions in up to 16.6% of the cases. Unfortunately, 43% of the samples underwent significant RNA degradation, falling below the sequencing threshold. As CaptureSeq is not yet available in routine pathology practice, increasing awareness of the yield, failure rate and possible aetiological factors for RNA degradation is fundamental to maximise laboratory procedures to improve RNA integrity, allowing the potential identification of significant gene alterations in solid tumours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Cristina Vargas
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, Sonic Healthcare-Douglass Hanly Moir Pathology, Macquarie Park, NSW, Australia; Cancer Diagnosis and Pathology Group, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, NSW, Australia; Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Erin E Heyer
- The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia; St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Alison L Cheah
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, Sonic Healthcare-Douglass Hanly Moir Pathology, Macquarie Park, NSW, Australia
| | - Fiona Bonar
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, Sonic Healthcare-Douglass Hanly Moir Pathology, Macquarie Park, NSW, Australia
| | - Martin Jones
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, Sonic Healthcare-Douglass Hanly Moir Pathology, Macquarie Park, NSW, Australia
| | - Fiona M Maclean
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, Sonic Healthcare-Douglass Hanly Moir Pathology, Macquarie Park, NSW, Australia; Cancer Diagnosis and Pathology Group, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, NSW, Australia; Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, NSW, Australia
| | - Anthony J Gill
- Cancer Diagnosis and Pathology Group, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, NSW, Australia; Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Department of Anatomical Pathology, NSW Health Pathology, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, NSW, Australia
| | - James Blackburn
- The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia; St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Lingui X, Weifeng L, Yufei W, Yibin Z. High SPATA18 Expression and its Diagnostic and Prognostic Value in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma. Med Sci Monit 2023; 29:e938474. [PMID: 36751118 PMCID: PMC9924025 DOI: 10.12659/msm.938474] [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] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND SPATA18 (spermatogenesis-associated 18, also called Mieap) encodes a protein that can induce lysosome-like organelles within mitochondria, which plays an important role in tumor growth. We measured the expression of SPATA18 in ccRCC, and assessed its diagnostic and prognostic clinical value in patients with clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). MATERIAL AND METHODS We analyzed SPATA18 expression using data from the TCGA-KIRC cohort, GEO database, and UALCAN database. Immunohistochemistry was carried out to verify the expression in the ccRCC patients. The diagnostic value of SPATA18expression was evaluated by a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. The correlation between clinical characteristics and SPATA18 expression was calculated by chi-square test. The prognostic value of SPATA18 expression was assessed by Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox analysis. We conducted gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) using TCGA database. RESULTS SPATA18 gene exhibited a higher expression in ccRCC tissues than in normal tissues. SPATA18 showed a substantial diagnostic value in ccRCC. SPATA18 expression was correlated with histological grade, clinical stage, T classification, and distant metastasis of ccRCC. Furthermore, high SPATA18 expression was associated with favorable overall survival. Multivariate analysis showed that SPATA18 was an independent risk factor for ccRCC. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) showed that B cell receptors, WNT targets, extracellular matrix, oxidative phosphorylation, calcium metabolism, iron uptake and transport, potassium channels, and insulin receptor were differently enriched in the phenotype that was negatively correlated with SPATA18. CONCLUSIONS Our study indicated that high SPATA18 expression in ccRCC was associated with a good prognosis, and it could be a positive prognostic biomarker for ccRCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xie Lingui
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China (mainland)
| | - Liu Weifeng
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China (mainland)
| | - Wang Yufei
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China (mainland)
| | - Zhou Yibin
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China (mainland)
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Long-read sequencing identifies novel structural variations in colorectal cancer. PLoS Genet 2023; 19:e1010514. [PMID: 36812239 PMCID: PMC10013895 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1010514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Structural variations (SVs) are a key type of cancer genomic alterations, contributing to oncogenesis and progression of many cancers, including colorectal cancer (CRC). However, SVs in CRC remain difficult to be reliably detected due to limited SV-detection capacity of the commonly used short-read sequencing. This study investigated the somatic SVs in 21 pairs of CRC samples by Nanopore whole-genome long-read sequencing. 5200 novel somatic SVs from 21 CRC patients (494 SVs / patient) were identified. A 4.9-Mbp long inversion that silences APC expression (confirmed by RNA-seq) and an 11.2-kbp inversion that structurally alters CFTR were identified. Two novel gene fusions that might functionally impact the oncogene RNF38 and the tumor-suppressor SMAD3 were detected. RNF38 fusion possesses metastasis-promoting ability confirmed by in vitro migration and invasion assay, and in vivo metastasis experiments. This work highlighted the various applications of long-read sequencing in cancer genome analysis, and shed new light on how somatic SVs structurally alter critical genes in CRC. The investigation on somatic SVs via nanopore sequencing revealed the potential of this genomic approach in facilitating precise diagnosis and personalized treatment of CRC.
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A narrative review of cancer molecular diagnostics: past, present, and future. JOURNAL OF BIO-X RESEARCH 2022. [DOI: 10.1097/jbr.0000000000000136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
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34
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Moiseenko F, Bogdanov A, Egorenkov V, Volkov N, Moiseyenko V. Management and Treatment of Non-small Cell Lung Cancer with MET Alteration and Mechanisms of Resistance. Curr Treat Options Oncol 2022; 23:1664-1698. [PMID: 36269457 DOI: 10.1007/s11864-022-01019-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
OPINION STATEMENT MET-driven tumors are a heterogenous group of non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC) with activating mutations. Pathologic activation of MET can be achieved with increased number of gene copies overexpression, or decreased protein degradation through several mechanisms, including mutations, amplifications, or fusions. Besides its role as primary driver, MET activation might also mediate resistance to kinase inhibitors in NSCLC with various other actionable alterations. While checkpoint inhibitors have modest efficacy in MET-driven tumors, several approaches of targeted blockade are available. Among them the most promising are small tyrosine kinase inhibitors, antibody-drug conjugates, and bispecific antibodies. Unfortunately, resistance is virtually inevitable. Resistance to small kinase inhibitors might be mediated by kinase domain mutations or activation of shunting cascades. Various resistance mechanisms might be present in one patient, making it overcoming an unresolved problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fedor Moiseenko
- Saint-Petersburg City Cancer Center, Leningradskay 68a, Lit.A, Pesochny, St. Petersburg, 197758, Russia. .,N.N. Petrov National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Ministry of Public Health of the Russian Federation, 68, Leningradskaya st., Pesochny, St. Petersburg, 197758, Russia. .,State Budget Institution of Higher Education "North-Western State Medical University named after I.I Mechnikov" under the Ministry of Public Health of the Russian Federation, 41, Kirochnaya str, Saint Petersburg, 191015, Russia.
| | - Alexey Bogdanov
- Saint-Petersburg City Cancer Center, Leningradskay 68a, Lit.A, Pesochny, St. Petersburg, 197758, Russia
| | - Vitaliy Egorenkov
- Saint-Petersburg City Cancer Center, Leningradskay 68a, Lit.A, Pesochny, St. Petersburg, 197758, Russia
| | - Nikita Volkov
- Saint-Petersburg City Cancer Center, Leningradskay 68a, Lit.A, Pesochny, St. Petersburg, 197758, Russia
| | - Vladimir Moiseyenko
- Saint-Petersburg City Cancer Center, Leningradskay 68a, Lit.A, Pesochny, St. Petersburg, 197758, Russia
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PANAGOPOULOS IOANNIS, HEIM SVERRE. Neoplasia-associated Chromosome Translocations Resulting in Gene Truncation. Cancer Genomics Proteomics 2022; 19:647-672. [PMID: 36316036 PMCID: PMC9620447 DOI: 10.21873/cgp.20349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Chromosomal translocations in cancer as well as benign neoplasias typically lead to the formation of fusion genes. Such genes may encode chimeric proteins when two protein-coding regions fuse in-frame, or they may result in deregulation of genes via promoter swapping or translocation of the gene into the vicinity of a highly active regulatory element. A less studied consequence of chromosomal translocations is the fusion of two breakpoint genes resulting in an out-of-frame chimera. The breaks then occur in one or both protein-coding regions forming a stop codon in the chimeric transcript shortly after the fusion point. Though the latter genetic events and mechanisms at first awoke little research interest, careful investigations have established them as neither rare nor inconsequential. In the present work, we review and discuss the truncation of genes in neoplastic cells resulting from chromosomal rearrangements, especially from seemingly balanced translocations.
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Affiliation(s)
- IOANNIS PANAGOPOULOS
- Section for Cancer Cytogenetics, Institute for Cancer Genetics and Informatics, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - SVERRE HEIM
- Section for Cancer Cytogenetics, Institute for Cancer Genetics and Informatics, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway,Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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Guo W, Liang J, Zhang D, Huang X, Lv Y. Lung adenocarcinoma harboring complex EML4-ALK fusion and BRAF V600E co-mutation responded to alectinib. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e30913. [PMID: 36221356 PMCID: PMC9542562 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000030913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE The echinoderm microtubule-associated protein-like 4 gene and anaplastic lymphoma kinase gene (EML4-ALK) is the most frequent fusion variant of ALK rearrangements in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). With the widespread application of next-generation sequencing (NGS), more fusions and co-mutations of EML4-ALK have been discovered. Complex co-mutation of EML4-ALK fusions together with BRAF V600E, though rarely occurred, also deserves attention to determine the standard of caring these patients. Herein, we report a case of lung adenocarcinoma harboring a complex ALK fusion that coexisted with a BRAF mutation, as tested by DNA-NGS prior to treatment. PATIENT CONCERNS A 51-year-old non-smoking man, without any symptoms, was admitted to hospital due to small pulmonary nodules and enlarged supraclavicu larlymph nodes found in health checkup. DIAGNOSIS He was diagnosed with stage IVB (T4N3M1c) lung adenocarcinoma. BRAF V600E (abundance 3.75%) mutation and a novel thus little-understood EML4-ALK (E13, A5; abundance 2.16%) fusion were identified by DNA-NGS analysis of lymph node biopsy tissue in December 2019. INTERVENTIONS Darafenib plus trametinib targeted therapy and chemotherapy were given firstly, but tumor progression was not inhibited. The ALK inhibitor alectinib was prescribed then. OUTCOMES The patient exhibited a rapid disease response to ALK tyrosine kinase inhibitors alectinib with a complete remission of widespread metastatic disease and progression-free survival of more than 26 months, but not to darafenib plus trametinib targeted BRAF V600E therapy. Re-analyzed the patient's DNA-NGS original data, showed it is a rare and complex EML4-ALK (E13, A5, A20) fusion in fact. Additional RNA-NGS analysis showed it verified to be a canonical EML4-ALK (E13, A20) fusion transcript and coexisting with a BRAF V600E mutation. LESSONS This case suggests that for patients with rare or complex EML4-ALK fusions at DNA level, additional RNA-NGS is necessary to verify its functionality as early as possible. Targeting EML4-ALK firstly may be more preferable despite the coexisting of BRAF V600E.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weihong Guo
- Zhongshan City People’s Hostipial, Zhongshan, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Jianping Liang
- Zhongshan City People’s Hostipial, Zhongshan, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Dandan Zhang
- Zhongshan City People’s Hostipial, Zhongshan, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xikun Huang
- Zhongshan City People’s Hostipial, Zhongshan, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yanhua Lv
- Zhongshan City People’s Hostipial, Zhongshan, Guangdong Province, China
- *Correspondence: Yanhua Lv, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Zhongshan City People’s Hospital, Zhongshan City 528400, Guangdong Province, China (e-mail: )
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mRNA Capture Sequencing and RT-qPCR for the Detection of Pathognomonic, Novel, and Secondary Fusion Transcripts in FFPE Tissue: A Sarcoma Showcase. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231911007. [PMID: 36232302 PMCID: PMC9569610 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
We assess the performance of mRNA capture sequencing to identify fusion transcripts in FFPE tissue of different sarcoma types, followed by RT-qPCR confirmation. To validate our workflow, six positive control tumors with a specific chromosomal rearrangement were analyzed using the TruSight RNA Pan-Cancer Panel. Fusion transcript calling by FusionCatcher confirmed these aberrations and enabled the identification of both fusion gene partners and breakpoints. Next, whole-transcriptome TruSeq RNA Exome sequencing was applied to 17 fusion gene-negative alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma (ARMS) or undifferentiated round cell sarcoma (URCS) tumors, for whom fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) did not identify the classical pathognomonic rearrangements. For six patients, a pathognomonic fusion transcript was readily detected, i.e., PAX3-FOXO1 in two ARMS patients, and EWSR1-FLI1, EWSR1-ERG, or EWSR1-NFATC2 in four URCS patients. For the 11 remaining patients, 11 newly identified fusion transcripts were confirmed by RT-qPCR, including COPS3-TOM1L2, NCOA1-DTNB, WWTR1-LINC01986, PLAA-MOB3B, AP1B1-CHEK2, and BRD4-LEUTX fusion transcripts in ARMS patients. Additionally, recurrently detected secondary fusion transcripts in patients diagnosed with EWSR1-NFATC2-positive sarcoma were confirmed (COPS4-TBC1D9, PICALM-SYTL2, SMG6-VPS53, and UBE2F-ALS2). In conclusion, this study shows that mRNA capture sequencing enhances the detection rate of pathognomonic fusions and enables the identification of novel and secondary fusion transcripts in sarcomas.
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38
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Sources of Cancer Neoantigens beyond Single-Nucleotide Variants. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231710131. [PMID: 36077528 PMCID: PMC9455963 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231710131] [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: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The success of checkpoint blockade therapy against cancer has unequivocally shown that cancer cells can be effectively recognized by the immune system and eliminated. However, the identity of the cancer antigens that elicit protective immunity remains to be fully explored. Over the last decade, most of the focus has been on somatic mutations derived from non-synonymous single-nucleotide variants (SNVs) and small insertion/deletion mutations (indels) that accumulate during cancer progression. Mutated peptides can be presented on MHC molecules and give rise to novel antigens or neoantigens, which have been shown to induce potent anti-tumor immune responses. A limitation with SNV-neoantigens is that they are patient-specific and their accurate prediction is critical for the development of effective immunotherapies. In addition, cancer types with low mutation burden may not display sufficient high-quality [SNV/small indels] neoantigens to alone stimulate effective T cell responses. Accumulating evidence suggests the existence of alternative sources of cancer neoantigens, such as gene fusions, alternative splicing variants, post-translational modifications, and transposable elements, which may be attractive novel targets for immunotherapy. In this review, we describe the recent technological advances in the identification of these novel sources of neoantigens, the experimental evidence for their presentation on MHC molecules and their immunogenicity, as well as the current clinical development stage of immunotherapy targeting these neoantigens.
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39
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An S, Koh HH, Chang ES, Choi J, Song JY, Lee MS, Choi YL. Unearthing novel fusions as therapeutic targets in solid tumors using targeted RNA sequencing. Front Oncol 2022; 12:892918. [PMID: 36033527 PMCID: PMC9399837 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.892918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Detection of oncogenic fusion genes in cancers, particularly in the diagnosis of uncertain tumors, is crucial for determining effective therapeutic strategies. Although novel fusion genes have been discovered through sequencing, verifying their oncogenic potential remain difficult. Therefore, we evaluated the utility of targeted RNA sequencing in 165 tumor samples by identifying known and unknown fusions. Additionally, by applying additional criteria, we discovered eight novel fusion genes that are expected to process oncogenicity. Among the novel fusion genes, RAF1 fusion genes were detected in two cases. PTPRG-RAF1 fusion led to an increase in cell growth; while dabrafenib, a BRAF inhibitor, reduced the growth of cells expressing RAF1. This study demonstrated the utility of RNA panel sequencing as a theragnostic tool and established criteria for identifying oncogenic fusion genes during post-sequencing analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sungbin An
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Samsung Advanced Institute for Health Sciences & Technology (SAIHST), Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, South Korea
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology and Theranotics, Samsung Medical Center, School of Medicine, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hyun Hee Koh
- Department of Pathology, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Eun Sol Chang
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Samsung Advanced Institute for Health Sciences & Technology (SAIHST), Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, South Korea
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology and Theranotics, Samsung Medical Center, School of Medicine, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Juyoung Choi
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology and Theranotics, Samsung Medical Center, School of Medicine, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, South Korea
- Department of Digital Health, Samsung Advanced Institute for Health Sciences & Technology Samsung Advanced Institute for Health Sciences & Technology (SAIHST), Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Ji-Young Song
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology and Theranotics, Samsung Medical Center, School of Medicine, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Mi-Sook Lee
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Samsung Advanced Institute for Health Sciences & Technology (SAIHST), Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, South Korea
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology and Theranotics, Samsung Medical Center, School of Medicine, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, South Korea
- *Correspondence: Mi-Sook Lee, ; Yoon-La Choi,
| | - Yoon-La Choi
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Samsung Advanced Institute for Health Sciences & Technology (SAIHST), Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, South Korea
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology and Theranotics, Samsung Medical Center, School of Medicine, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, South Korea
- Department of Pathology and Translational Genomics, Samsung Medical Center, School of Medicine, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, South Korea
- *Correspondence: Mi-Sook Lee, ; Yoon-La Choi,
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40
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Weber D, Ibn-Salem J, Sorn P, Suchan M, Holtsträter C, Lahrmann U, Vogler I, Schmoldt K, Lang F, Schrörs B, Löwer M, Sahin U. Accurate detection of tumor-specific gene fusions reveals strongly immunogenic personal neo-antigens. Nat Biotechnol 2022; 40:1276-1284. [PMID: 35379963 PMCID: PMC7613288 DOI: 10.1038/s41587-022-01247-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Cancer-associated gene fusions are a potential source for highly immunogenic neoantigens, but the lack of computational tools for accurate, sensitive identification of personal gene fusions has limited their targeting in personalized cancer immunotherapy. Here we present EasyFuse, a machine learning computational pipeline for detecting cancer-specific gene fusions in transcriptome data obtained from human cancer samples. EasyFuse predicts personal gene fusions with high precision and sensitivity, outperforming previously described tools. By testing immunogenicity with autologous blood lymphocytes from patients with cancer, we detected pre-established CD4+ and CD8+ T cell responses for 10 of 21 (48%) and for 1 of 30 (3%) identified gene fusions, respectively. The high frequency of T cell responses detected in patients with cancer supports the relevance of individual gene fusions as neoantigens that might be targeted in personalized immunotherapies, especially for tumors with low mutation burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Weber
- TRON − Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz gGmbH, Mainz, Germany
| | - J Ibn-Salem
- TRON − Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz gGmbH, Mainz, Germany
| | - P Sorn
- TRON − Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz gGmbH, Mainz, Germany
| | - M Suchan
- TRON − Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz gGmbH, Mainz, Germany
| | - C Holtsträter
- TRON − Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz gGmbH, Mainz, Germany
| | | | | | | | - F Lang
- TRON − Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz gGmbH, Mainz, Germany
| | - B Schrörs
- TRON − Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz gGmbH, Mainz, Germany
| | - M Löwer
- TRON − Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz gGmbH, Mainz, Germany
| | - U Sahin
- TRON − Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz gGmbH, Mainz, Germany,BioNTech SE, Mainz, Germany,Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany,corresponding author:
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41
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Detection of EWSR1 fusions in CCOC by targeted RNA-seq. Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol 2022; 134:240-244. [PMID: 35165059 DOI: 10.1016/j.oooo.2021.12.127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the application of a targeted RNA sequencing assay to detect fusion transcripts in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE), non-decalcified samples of clear cell odontogenic carcinoma (CCOC) and related tumors, and to add to knowledge of the genetic drivers of CCOC. STUDY DESIGN Five FFPE tissues, including intraosseous CCOC (n = 3), clear cell carcinoma of the salivary gland (CCC, n = 1), and Ewing sarcoma (ES, n = 1), were analyzed by targeted RNA-seq to detect fusions. RESULTS The 3 intraosseous CCOC samples harbored EWSR1 translocations: EWSR1-ATF1 (n = 2) and EWSR1-CREM (n = 1); the CCC sample contained an EWSR1-ATF1 fusion; and the ES sample contained an EWSR1-FLI1 fusion detected by RNA-seq. CONCLUSIONS These results demonstrate that targeted RNA-seq is a valuable tool to detect fusions in FFPE samples of rare tumors such as CCOC and CCC. The results also confirm the observations that CCOC is driven by fusions between EWSR1 and CREB family transcription factors, including ATF1 and CREM. To our knowledge, this is the second report of CCOC with an EWSR1-CREM translocation.
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42
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Yuan R, Bai X, Hu X, Zhang H, Hou C, Long Q, Luo Y. CATCH: high specific transcriptome-focused fusion gene variants discrimination. Chem Commun (Camb) 2022; 58:7618-7621. [PMID: 35730730 DOI: 10.1039/d2cc02660k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
We develop a CRISPR-Cas13a triggered catalytic hairpin assembly (CATCH) approach for accurate and impartial identification of variants by integrating the fusion gene-selected recognition of CRISPR-Cas13a with collateral cleavage-assisted catalytic hairpin assembly amplification. This approach achieved an accuracy of 100% in a pilot experiment involving 34 clinical samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Yuan
- Key Laboratory for Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, P. R. China.,Center of Smart Laboratory and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, P. R. China
| | - Xiaopeng Bai
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology on Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, P. R. China
| | - Xiaolin Hu
- Center of Smart Laboratory and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, P. R. China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Center of Smart Laboratory and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, P. R. China.,Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250033, P. R. China
| | - Changjun Hou
- Key Laboratory for Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, P. R. China
| | - Quanxin Long
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology on Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, P. R. China
| | - Yang Luo
- Center of Smart Laboratory and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, P. R. China.,Department of Clinical Laboratory, Fuling Hospital, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 408099, P. R. China.,Department of Clinical Laboratory, Jiangjin Hospital, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 402260, P. R. China
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Yin L, Han Z, Feng M, Wang J, Xie Z, Yu W, Fu X, Shen N, Wang X, Duan A, Zhang Y, Ma J. Chimeric transcripts observed in non-canonical FGFR2 fusions with partner genes' breakpoint located in intergenic region in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. Cancer Genet 2022; 266-267:39-43. [PMID: 35749865 DOI: 10.1016/j.cancergen.2022.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Revised: 05/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) is a fatal bile duct cancer with dismal prognosis and limited therapeutic options. FGFR family fusion have been identified in many diseases, and FGFR2 fusion is a validated oncogenic driver in ICC. At present, a variety of fusion forms have been reported, including gene-gene, gene-intergenic, and intergenic-intergenic fusion. Here, by performing RNA- and DNA-sequencing analysis, FGFR2 fusions were found in 10.1% of ICC, including 4 gene-intergenic fusions. We confirmed that the non-canonical rearrangements can generate chimeric transcripts, and used conventional splicing mechanism to explain the event. Our study provides possible target therapy for these 4 patients and possibility analysis scheme for similar situation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Yin
- 2nd Department of Biliary Truct Surgery, Eastern Hepatobiliary surgery hospital, 225#Changhai Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhijun Han
- Department of Bioinformatics, 3D Medicines Inc., Shanghai, China
| | - Meilin Feng
- Department of Data System, 3D Medicines Inc, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Department of Bioinformatics, 3D Medicines Inc., Shanghai, China
| | - Zhenghua Xie
- Department of Research and Development, 3D Medicines Inc, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenlong Yu
- 2nd Department of Biliary Truct Surgery, Eastern Hepatobiliary surgery hospital, 225#Changhai Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaohui Fu
- 2nd Department of Biliary Truct Surgery, Eastern Hepatobiliary surgery hospital, 225#Changhai Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Ningjia Shen
- 2nd Department of Biliary Truct Surgery, Eastern Hepatobiliary surgery hospital, 225#Changhai Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiang Wang
- 2nd Department of Biliary Truct Surgery, Eastern Hepatobiliary surgery hospital, 225#Changhai Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Anqi Duan
- 2nd Department of Biliary Truct Surgery, Eastern Hepatobiliary surgery hospital, 225#Changhai Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Yongjie Zhang
- 2nd Department of Biliary Truct Surgery, Eastern Hepatobiliary surgery hospital, 225#Changhai Road, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jing Ma
- Department of Data System, 3D Medicines Inc, Shanghai, China.
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44
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Abstract
Distilling biologically meaningful information from cancer genome sequencing data requires comprehensive identification of somatic alterations using rigorous computational methods. As the amount and complexity of sequencing data have increased, so has the number of tools for analysing them. Here, we describe the main steps involved in the bioinformatic analysis of cancer genomes, review key algorithmic developments and highlight popular tools and emerging technologies. These tools include those that identify point mutations, copy number alterations, structural variations and mutational signatures in cancer genomes. We also discuss issues in experimental design, the strengths and limitations of sequencing modalities and methodological challenges for the future.
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45
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Fusion Genes in Prostate Cancer: A Comparison in Men of African and European Descent. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11050625. [PMID: 35625354 PMCID: PMC9137560 DOI: 10.3390/biology11050625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Men of African origin have a 2–3 times greater chance of developing prostate cancer than those of European origin, and of patients that are diagnosed with the disease, men of African descent are 2 times more likely to die compared to white men. Men of African origin are still greatly underrepresented in genetic studies and clinical trials. This, unfortunately, means that new discoveries in cancer treatment are missing key information on the group with a greater chance of mortality. A fusion gene is a hybrid gene formed from two previously independent genes. Fusion genes have been found to be common in all main types of human cancer. The objective of this study was to increase our knowledge of fusion genes in prostate cancer using computational approaches and to compare fusion genes between men of African and European origin. This identified novel gene fusions unique to men of African origin and suggested that this group has a greater number of fusion genes. Abstract Prostate cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers worldwide, particularly affecting men living a western lifestyle and of African descent, suggesting risk factors that are genetic, environmental, and socioeconomic in nature. In the USA, African American (AA) men are disproportionately affected, on average suffering from a higher grade of the disease and at a younger age compared to men of European descent (EA). Fusion genes are chimeric products formed by the merging of two separate genes occurring as a result of chromosomal structural changes, for example, inversion or trans/cis-splicing of neighboring genes. They are known drivers of cancer and have been identified in 20% of cancers. Improvements in genomics technologies such as RNA-sequencing coupled with better algorithms for prediction of fusion genes has added to our knowledge of specific gene fusions in cancers. At present AA are underrepresented in genomic studies of prostate cancer. The primary goal of this study was to examine molecular differences in predicted fusion genes in a cohort of AA and EA men in the context of prostate cancer using computational approaches. RNA was purified from prostate tissue specimens obtained at surgery from subjects enrolled in the study. Fusion gene predictions were performed using four different fusion gene detection programs. This identified novel putative gene fusions unique to AA and suggested that the fusion gene burden was higher in AA compared to EA men.
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46
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Yang F, Deng K, Zheng H, Liu Z, Zheng Y. Progress of targeted and immunotherapy for hepatocellular carcinoma and the application of next-generation sequencing. Ann Hepatol 2022; 27:100677. [PMID: 35093601 DOI: 10.1016/j.aohep.2022.100677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), leading cancer worldwide, has a high degree of genetic heterogeneity; next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology has contributed significantly to the discovery of driving genes as well as high-frequency mutations in HCC. The detection of gene alterations may allow us to predict prognosis and adverse drug reactions for individuals, paving the way for personalized medicine in HCC patients. In this review, we summarized the common systemic therapy regimens for HCC and the predictive efficacy of genetic biomarkers on the prognosis of patients under these treatments. Finally, we put forward a future perspective on the potential of NGS technology for the guidance of targeted therapy and immunotherapy in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Yang
- Department of liver surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, No.1 Shuaifuyuan Wangfujing Dongcheng District, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Kaige Deng
- Department of liver surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, No.1 Shuaifuyuan Wangfujing Dongcheng District, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Haoran Zheng
- Department of liver surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, No.1 Shuaifuyuan Wangfujing Dongcheng District, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Zhenting Liu
- Department of liver surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, No.1 Shuaifuyuan Wangfujing Dongcheng District, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Yongchang Zheng
- Department of liver surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, No.1 Shuaifuyuan Wangfujing Dongcheng District, Beijing 100730, China.
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47
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Designing highly multiplex PCR primer sets with Simulated Annealing Design using Dimer Likelihood Estimation (SADDLE). Nat Commun 2022; 13:1881. [PMID: 35410464 PMCID: PMC9001684 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-29500-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
One major challenge in the design of highly multiplexed PCR primer sets is the large number of potential primer dimer species that grows quadratically with the number of primers to be designed. Simultaneously, there are exponentially many choices for multiplex primer sequence selection, resulting in systematic evaluation approaches being computationally intractable. Here, we present and experimentally validate Simulated Annealing Design using Dimer Likelihood Estimation (SADDLE), a stochastic algorithm for design of multiplex PCR primer sets that minimize primer dimer formation. In a 96-plex PCR primer set (192 primers), the fraction of primer dimers decreases from 90.7% in a naively designed primer set to 4.9% in our optimized primer set. Even when scaling to 384-plex (768 primers), the optimized primer set maintains low dimer fraction. In addition to NGS, SADDLE-designed primer sets can also be used in qPCR settings to allow highly multiplexed detection of gene fusions in cDNA, with a single-tube assay comprising 60 primers detecting 56 distinct gene fusions recurrently observed in lung cancer. The design of highly multiplex PCR primers to amplify and enrich many different DNA sequences is increasing in biomedical importance as new mutations and pathogens are identified. The authors present and experimentally validate Simulated Annealing Design using Dimer Likelihood Estimation (SADDLE), a stochastic algorithm for design of highly multiplex PCR primer sets that minimize primer dimer formation.
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48
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Lovino M, Montemurro M, Barrese VS, Ficarra E. Identifying the oncogenic potential of gene fusions exploiting miRNAs. J Biomed Inform 2022; 129:104057. [PMID: 35339665 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbi.2022.104057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
It is estimated that oncogenic gene fusions cause about 20% of human cancer morbidity. Identifying potentially oncogenic gene fusions may improve affected patients' diagnosis and treatment. Previous approaches to this issue included exploiting specific gene-related information, such as gene function and regulation. Here we propose a model that profits from the previous findings and includes the microRNAs in the oncogenic assessment. We present ChimerDriver, a tool to classify gene fusions as oncogenic or not oncogenic. ChimerDriver is based on a specifically designed neural network and trained on genetic and post-transcriptional information to obtain a reliable classification. The designed neural network integrates information related to transcription factors, gene ontologies, microRNAs and other detailed information related to the functions of the genes involved in the fusion and the gene fusion structure. As a result, the performances on the test set reached 0.83 f1-score and 96% recall. The comparison with state-of-the-art tools returned comparable or higher results. Moreover, ChimerDriver performed well in a real-world case where 21 out of 24 validated gene fusion samples were detected by the gene fusion detection tool Starfusion. ChimerDriver integrates transcriptional and post-transcriptional information in an ad-hoc designed neural network to effectively discriminate oncogenic gene fusions from passenger ones. ChimerDriver source code is freely available at https://github.com/martalovino/ChimerDriver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Lovino
- University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Vivarelli 10/1, 41125 Modena, Italy.
| | | | - Venere S Barrese
- Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi 24, Torino, Italy
| | - Elisa Ficarra
- University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Vivarelli 10/1, 41125 Modena, Italy
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49
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Ambrosini-Spaltro A, Farnedi A, Calistri D, Rengucci C, Prisinzano G, Chiadini E, Capelli L, Angeli D, Bennati C, Valli M, De Luca G, Caruso D, Ulivi P, Rossi G. The role of next-generation sequencing in detecting gene FUSIONS with KNOWN and UNKNOWN partners: A single-center experience with methodologies' integration. Hum Pathol 2022; 123:20-30. [PMID: 35181377 DOI: 10.1016/j.humpath.2022.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Next-generation sequencing (NGS) is becoming a new gold standard for determining molecular predictive biomarkers. This study aimed to evaluate the reliability of NGS in detecting gene fusions, focusing on comparing gene fusions with known and unknown partners. METHODS We collected all gene fusions from a consecutive case series using an amplicon-based DNA/RNA NGS platform and subdivided them into two groups: gene fusions with known partners and gene fusions with unknown partners. Gene fusions involving ALK, ROS1 and RET were also examined by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and/or fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH). RESULTS Overall, 1174 malignancies underwent NGS analysis. NGS detected gene fusions in 67 cases (5.7%), further subdivided into 43 (64.2%) with known partners and 24 (35.8%) with unknown partners. Gene fusions were predominantly found in non-small cell lung carcinomas (52/67, 77.6%). Gene fusions with known partners frequently involved ALK (20/43, 46.5%) and MET (9/43, 20.9%), while gene fusions with unknown partners mostly involved RET (18/24, 75.0%). FISH/IHC confirmed rearrangement status in most (89.3%) of the gene fusions with known partners, but in only one (4.8%) of the gene fusions with unknown partners, with a significant difference (p<0.001). In 17 patients undergoing targeted therapy, the log-rank test revealed that the overall survival was higher in the known partner group than in the unknown partner group (p=0.002). CONCLUSIONS NGS is a reliable method for detecting gene fusions with known partners, but it is less accurate in identifying gene fusions with unknown partners, for which further analyses (such as FISH) are required.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anna Farnedi
- Pathology Unit, Morgagni-Pierantoni Hospital, Forlì, AUSL Romagna, Italy
| | - Daniele Calistri
- Biosciences Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per Lo Studio Dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola, Italy
| | - Claudia Rengucci
- Biosciences Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per Lo Studio Dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola, Italy
| | - Giovanna Prisinzano
- Biosciences Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per Lo Studio Dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola, Italy
| | - Elisa Chiadini
- Biosciences Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per Lo Studio Dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola, Italy
| | - Laura Capelli
- Biosciences Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per Lo Studio Dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola, Italy
| | - Davide Angeli
- Unit of Biostatistics and Clinical Trials, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per Lo Studio Dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola, Italy
| | - Chiara Bennati
- Oncology Unit, Santa Maria Delle Croci Hospital, Ravenna, AUSL Romagna, Italy
| | - Mirca Valli
- Pathology Unit, Infermi Hospital, Rimini, AUSL Romagna, Italy
| | | | - Dora Caruso
- Pathology Unit, Santa Maria Delle Croci Hospital, Ravenna, AUSL Romagna, Italy
| | - Paola Ulivi
- Biosciences Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per Lo Studio Dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola, Italy
| | - Giulio Rossi
- Pathology Unit, Department of Oncology, Fondazione Poliambulanza, Brescia, Italy
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50
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Rakheja D, Park JY, Fernandes NJ, Watt TC, Laetsch TW, Collins RRJ. Pediatric Non-Myofibroblastic Primitive Spindle Cell Tumors with ALK Gene Rearrangements and Response to Crizotinib. Int J Surg Pathol 2022; 30:706-715. [PMID: 35164578 DOI: 10.1177/10668969221080072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
We describe two poorly differentiated, non-myofibroblastic (SMA-, S100+, CD34±), spindle cell neoplasms with immunohistochemical positivity for ALK and with ALK gene rearrangements leading to PLEKHH2::ALK and CLTC::ALK fusions, respectively. ALK protein overexpression and/or gene fusions should be evaluated in poorly differentiated spindle cell neoplasms, even when there is an absence of a myofibroblastic phenotype. A positive ALK evaluation has therapeutic implications as both tumors responded to single-agent treatment with the tyrosine kinase inhibitor crizotinib.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinesh Rakheja
- Department of Pathology, 12334University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.,Children's Health, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Jason Y Park
- Department of Pathology, 12334University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.,Children's Health, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Neil J Fernandes
- Children's Health, Dallas, TX, USA.,Department of Radiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Tanya C Watt
- Children's Health, Dallas, TX, USA.,Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Theodore W Laetsch
- Division of Oncology, 6567Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Perelman School of Medicine and Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Rebecca R J Collins
- Department of Pathology, 12334University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.,Children's Health, Dallas, TX, USA
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