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Hackenbruch C, Bauer J, Heitmann JS, Maringer Y, Nelde A, Denk M, Zieschang L, Kammer C, Federmann B, Jung S, Martus P, Malek NP, Nikolaou K, Salih HR, Bitzer M, Walz JS. FusionVAC22_01: a phase I clinical trial evaluating a DNAJB1-PRKACA fusion transcript-based peptide vaccine combined with immune checkpoint inhibition for fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma and other tumor entities carrying the oncogenic driver fusion. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1367450. [PMID: 38606105 PMCID: PMC11007196 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1367450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The DNAJB1-PRKACA fusion transcript was identified as the oncogenic driver of tumor pathogenesis in fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma (FL-HCC), also known as fibrolamellar carcinoma (FLC), as well as in other tumor entities, thus representing a broad target for novel treatment in multiple cancer entities. FL-HCC is a rare primary liver tumor with a 5-year survival rate of only 45%, which typically affects young patients with no underlying primary liver disease. Surgical resection is the only curative treatment option if no metastases are present at diagnosis. There is no standard of care for systemic therapy. Peptide-based vaccines represent a low side-effect approach relying on specific immune recognition of tumor-associated human leucocyte antigen (HLA) presented peptides. The induction (priming) of tumor-specific T-cell responses against neoepitopes derived from gene fusion transcripts by peptide-vaccination combined with expansion of the immune response and optimization of immune function within the tumor microenvironment achieved by immune-checkpoint-inhibition (ICI) has the potential to improve response rates and durability of responses in malignant diseases. The phase I clinical trial FusionVAC22_01 will enroll patients with FL-HCC or other cancer entities carrying the DNAJB1-PRKACA fusion transcript that are locally advanced or metastatic. Two doses of the DNAJB1-PRKACA fusion-based neoepitope vaccine Fusion-VAC-XS15 will be applied subcutaneously (s.c.) with a 4-week interval in combination with the anti-programmed cell death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) antibody atezolizumab starting at day 15 after the first vaccination. Anti-PD-L1 will be applied every 4 weeks until end of the 54-week treatment phase or until disease progression or other reason for study termination. Thereafter, patients will enter a 6 months follow-up period. The clinical trial reported here was approved by the Ethics Committee II of the University of Heidelberg (Medical faculty of Mannheim) and the Paul-Ehrlich-Institute (P-00540). Clinical trial results will be published in peer-reviewed journals. Trial registration numbers EU CT Number: 2022-502869-17-01 and ClinicalTrials.gov Registry (NCT05937295).
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Hackenbruch
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Department of Peptide-based Immunotherapy, Institute of Immunology, University and University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Jens Bauer
- Department of Peptide-based Immunotherapy, Institute of Immunology, University and University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Jonas S. Heitmann
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Department of Peptide-based Immunotherapy, Institute of Immunology, University and University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Yacine Maringer
- Department of Peptide-based Immunotherapy, Institute of Immunology, University and University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Annika Nelde
- Department of Peptide-based Immunotherapy, Institute of Immunology, University and University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Monika Denk
- Department of Peptide-based Immunotherapy, Institute of Immunology, University and University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), partner site Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Lisa Zieschang
- Department of Peptide-based Immunotherapy, Institute of Immunology, University and University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), partner site Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Christine Kammer
- Department of Peptide-based Immunotherapy, Institute of Immunology, University and University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), partner site Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Birgit Federmann
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Department of Peptide-based Immunotherapy, Institute of Immunology, University and University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Susanne Jung
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Department of Peptide-based Immunotherapy, Institute of Immunology, University and University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Peter Martus
- Institute for Medical Biometrics and Clinical Epidemiology, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Nisar P. Malek
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), partner site Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Center for Personalized Medicine, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- The M3 Research Institute, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Konstantin Nikolaou
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), partner site Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Helmut R. Salih
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Michael Bitzer
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), partner site Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Center for Personalized Medicine, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Juliane S. Walz
- Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Department of Peptide-based Immunotherapy, Institute of Immunology, University and University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), partner site Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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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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Gene-Transcript Expression in Urine Supernatant and Urine Cell-Sediment Are Different but Equally Useful for Detecting Prostate Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15030789. [PMID: 36765747 PMCID: PMC9913640 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15030789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
There is considerable interest in urine as a non-invasive liquid biopsy to detect prostate cancer (PCa). PCa-specific transcripts such as the TMPRSS2:ERG fusion gene can be found in both urine extracellular vesicles (EVs) and urine cell-sediment (Cell) but the relative usefulness of these and other genes in each fraction in PCa detection has not been fully elucidated. Urine samples from 76 men (PCa n = 40, non-cancer n = 36) were analysed by NanoString for 154 PCa-associated genes-probes, 11 tissue-specific, and six housekeeping. Comparison to qRT-PCR data for four genes (PCA3, OR51E2, FOLH1, and RPLP2) was strong (r = 0.51-0.95, Spearman p < 0.00001). Comparing EV to Cells, differential gene expression analysis found 57 gene-probes significantly more highly expressed in 100 ng of amplified cDNA products from the EV fraction, and 26 in Cells (p < 0.05; edgeR). Expression levels of prostate-specific genes (KLK2, KLK3) measured were ~20× higher in EVs, while PTPRC (white-blood Cells) was ~1000× higher in Cells. Boruta analysis identified 11 gene-probes as useful in detecting PCa: two were useful in both fractions (PCA3, HOXC6), five in EVs alone (GJB1, RPS10, TMPRSS2:ERG, ERG_Exons_4-5, HPN) and four from Cell (ERG_Exons_6-7, OR51E2, SPINK1, IMPDH2), suggesting that it is beneficial to fractionate whole urine prior to analysis. The five housekeeping genes were not significantly differentially expressed between PCa and non-cancer samples. Expression signatures from Cell, EV and combined data did not show evidence for one fraction providing superior information over the other.
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Systematic Analysis of Cellular Signaling Pathways and Therapeutic Targets for SLC45A3:ERG Fusion-Positive Prostate Cancer. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12111818. [PMID: 36579559 PMCID: PMC9693845 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12111818] [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: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
ETS-related gene (ERG) fusion affects prostate cancer depending on the degree of expression of ERG. Solute Carrier Family 45 Member 3 (SLC45A3) is the second-most common 5′ partner gene of ERG rearrangement. However, the molecular pathological features of SLC45A3:ERG (S:E) fusion and therapeutic methods have not been studied at all. S:E fusion-positive cancers (n = 10) were selected from the Tumor Fusion Gene Data Portal website. Fusion-negative cancers (n = 50) were selected by sorting ERG expression level in descending order and selecting the bottom to 50th sample. Totally, 1325 ERG correlated genes were identified by a Pearson correlation test using over 0.3 of absolute correlation coefficiency (|R| > 0.3). Pathway analysis was performed using over-representation analysis of correlated genes, and seven cancer-related pathways (focal adhesion kinase (FAK)/PI3K-Akt, JAK-STAT, Notch, receptor tyrosine kinase/PDGF, TGF-β, VEGFA, and Wnt signaling) were identified. In particular, focal adhesion kinase (FAK)/PI3K-Akt signaling and JAK-STAT signaling were significantly enriched in S:E fusion-positive prostate cancer. We further identified therapeutic targets and candidate drugs for S:E fusion-positive prostate cancer using gene−drug network analysis. Interestingly, PDGFRA and PDGFRB were the most frequently predicted therapeutic targets, and imatinib targeted both genes. In this study, we provide extensive information on cellular signaling pathways involved in S:E fusion-positive prostate cancer and also suggest therapeutic methods.
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Bauer J, Köhler N, Maringer Y, Bucher P, Bilich T, Zwick M, Dicks S, Nelde A, Dubbelaar M, Scheid J, Wacker M, Heitmann JS, Schroeder S, Rieth J, Denk M, Richter M, Klein R, Bonzheim I, Luibrand J, Holzer U, Ebinger M, Brecht IB, Bitzer M, Boerries M, Feucht J, Salih HR, Rammensee HG, Hailfinger S, Walz JS. The oncogenic fusion protein DNAJB1-PRKACA can be specifically targeted by peptide-based immunotherapy in fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma. Nat Commun 2022; 13:6401. [PMID: 36302754 PMCID: PMC9613889 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-33746-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The DNAJB1-PRKACA fusion transcript is the oncogenic driver in fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma, a lethal disease lacking specific therapies. This study reports on the identification, characterization, and immunotherapeutic application of HLA-presented neoantigens specific for the DNAJB1-PRKACA fusion transcript in fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma. DNAJB1-PRKACA-derived HLA class I and HLA class II ligands induce multifunctional cytotoxic CD8+ and T-helper 1 CD4+ T cells, and their cellular processing and presentation in DNAJB1-PRKACA expressing tumor cells is demonstrated by mass spectrometry-based immunopeptidome analysis. Single-cell RNA sequencing further identifies multiple T cell receptors from DNAJB1-PRKACA-specific T cells. Vaccination of a fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma patient, suffering from recurrent short interval disease relapses, with DNAJB1-PRKACA-derived peptides under continued Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitor therapy induces multifunctional CD4+ T cells, with an activated T-helper 1 phenotype and high T cell receptor clonality. Vaccine-induced DNAJB1-PRKACA-specific T cell responses persist over time and, in contrast to various previous treatments, are accompanied by durable relapse free survival of the patient for more than 21 months post vaccination. Our preclinical and clinical findings identify the DNAJB1-PRKACA protein as source for immunogenic neoepitopes and corresponding T cell receptors and provide efficacy in a single-patient study of T cell-based immunotherapy specifically targeting this oncogenic fusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens Bauer
- grid.411544.10000 0001 0196 8249Department of Peptide-based Immunotherapy, University and University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Department of Immunology, Institute for Cell Biology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Natalie Köhler
- grid.5963.9Department of Internal Medicine I, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwigs University, Freiburg, Germany ,grid.5963.9CIBSS – Centre for Integrative Biological Signalling Studies, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Yacine Maringer
- grid.411544.10000 0001 0196 8249Department of Peptide-based Immunotherapy, University and University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Department of Immunology, Institute for Cell Biology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Philip Bucher
- grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children’s Hospital, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Tatjana Bilich
- grid.411544.10000 0001 0196 8249Department of Peptide-based Immunotherapy, University and University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Department of Immunology, Institute for Cell Biology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Melissa Zwick
- grid.5963.9Department of Internal Medicine I, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwigs University, Freiburg, Germany ,grid.5963.9Faculty of Biology, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Severin Dicks
- grid.5963.9Faculty of Biology, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität, Freiburg, Germany ,grid.5963.9Institute of Medical Bioinformatics and Systems Medicine, Medical Center – University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Annika Nelde
- grid.411544.10000 0001 0196 8249Department of Peptide-based Immunotherapy, University and University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Department of Immunology, Institute for Cell Biology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Marissa Dubbelaar
- grid.411544.10000 0001 0196 8249Department of Peptide-based Immunotherapy, University and University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Department of Immunology, Institute for Cell Biology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Quantitative Biology Center (QBiC), University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Jonas Scheid
- grid.411544.10000 0001 0196 8249Department of Peptide-based Immunotherapy, University and University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Department of Immunology, Institute for Cell Biology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Quantitative Biology Center (QBiC), University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Marcel Wacker
- grid.411544.10000 0001 0196 8249Department of Peptide-based Immunotherapy, University and University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Department of Immunology, Institute for Cell Biology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Jonas S. Heitmann
- grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany ,grid.411544.10000 0001 0196 8249Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Sarah Schroeder
- grid.411544.10000 0001 0196 8249Department of Peptide-based Immunotherapy, University and University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Department of Immunology, Institute for Cell Biology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Jonas Rieth
- grid.411544.10000 0001 0196 8249Department of Peptide-based Immunotherapy, University and University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Department of Immunology, Institute for Cell Biology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Monika Denk
- grid.411544.10000 0001 0196 8249Department of Peptide-based Immunotherapy, University and University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Department of Immunology, Institute for Cell Biology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany ,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Partner site Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Marion Richter
- grid.411544.10000 0001 0196 8249Department of Peptide-based Immunotherapy, University and University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Department of Immunology, Institute for Cell Biology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany ,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Partner site Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Reinhild Klein
- grid.411544.10000 0001 0196 8249Department of Hematology, Oncology, Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Irina Bonzheim
- grid.411544.10000 0001 0196 8249Department of Pathology and Neuropathology, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Julia Luibrand
- grid.411544.10000 0001 0196 8249Department of Pathology and Neuropathology, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Ursula Holzer
- grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children’s Hospital, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Martin Ebinger
- grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children’s Hospital, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Ines B. Brecht
- grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children’s Hospital, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Michael Bitzer
- grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany ,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Partner site Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany ,grid.411544.10000 0001 0196 8249Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Melanie Boerries
- grid.5963.9Institute of Medical Bioinformatics and Systems Medicine, Medical Center – University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany ,grid.7497.d0000 0004 0492 0584German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) Partner Site, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Judith Feucht
- grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children’s Hospital, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Helmut R. Salih
- grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany ,grid.411544.10000 0001 0196 8249Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Hans-Georg Rammensee
- grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Department of Immunology, Institute for Cell Biology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany ,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Partner site Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Stephan Hailfinger
- grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany ,grid.16149.3b0000 0004 0551 4246Department of Medicine A, Hematology, Oncology and Pneumology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Juliane S. Walz
- grid.411544.10000 0001 0196 8249Department of Peptide-based Immunotherapy, University and University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Department of Immunology, Institute for Cell Biology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany ,grid.411544.10000 0001 0196 8249Clinical Collaboration Unit Translational Immunology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany ,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Partner site Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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6
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Wang Q, Chen J, Singh S, Xie Z, Qin F, Shi X, Cornelison R, Li H, Huang H. Profile of chimeric RNAs and TMPRSS2-ERG e2e4 isoform in neuroendocrine prostate cancer. Cell Biosci 2022; 12:153. [PMID: 36088396 PMCID: PMC9463804 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-022-00893-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Specific gene fusions and their fusion products (chimeric RNA and protein) have served as ideal diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets for cancer. However, few systematic studies for chimeric RNAs have been conducted in neuroendocrine prostate cancer (NEPC). In this study, we explored the landscape of chimeric RNAs in different types of prostate cancer (PCa) cell lines and aimed to identify chimeric RNAs specifically expressed in NEPC. Methods To do so, we employed the RNA-seq data of eight prostate related cell lines from Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia (CCLE) for chimeric RNA identification. Multiple filtering criteria were used and the candidate chimeric RNAs were characterized at multiple levels and from various angles. We then performed experimental validation on all 80 candidates, and focused on the ones that are specific to NEPC. Lastly, we studied the clinical relevance and effect of one chimera in neuroendocrine process. Results Out of 80 candidates, 15 were confirmed to be expressed preferentially in NEPC lines. Among them, 13 of the 15 were found to be specifically expressed in NEPC, and four were further validated in another NEPC cell line. Importantly, in silico analysis showed that tumor malignancy may be correlated to the level of these chimeric RNAs. Clinically, the expression of TMPRSS2-ERG (e2e4) was elevated in tumor tissues and indicated poor clinical prognosis, whereas the parental wild type transcripts had no such association. Furthermore, compared to the most frequently detected TMPRSS2-ERG form (e1e4), e2e4 encodes 31 more amino acids and accelerated neuroendocrine process of prostate cancer. Conclusions In summary, these findings painted the landscape of chimeric RNA in NEPC and supported the idea that some chimeric RNAs may represent additional biomarkers and/or treatment targets independent of parental gene transcripts. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13578-022-00893-5.
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7
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Cotter K, Rubin MA. The evolving landscape of prostate cancer somatic mutations. Prostate 2022; 82 Suppl 1:S13-S24. [PMID: 35657155 PMCID: PMC9328313 DOI: 10.1002/pros.24353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The landscape of somatic mutations in prostate cancer (PCa) has quickly evolved over the past years. RESULTS This evolution was in part due to the improved quality and lower cost of genomic sequencing platforms available to an ever-larger group of clinicians and researchers. The result of these efforts is a better understanding of early and late mutations that are enriched or nearly exclusive to treated PCa. There are, however, some important limitations to the current knowledge. The expanding variety of next-generation sequencing (NGS) assays either capture a wide spectrum of mutations but at low coverage or are focused panels that cover a select number of genes, most often cancer-related, at a deep coverage. Both of these approaches have their advantages, but ultimately miss low-frequency mutations or fail to cover the spectrum of potential mutations. Additionally, some alterations, such as the common ETS gene fusions, require a mixture of DNA and RNA analysis to capture the true frequency. Finally, almost all studies rely on bulk PCa tumor samples, which fail to consider tumor heterogeneity. Given all these caveats, the true picture of the somatic landscape of PCa continues to develop. SUMMARY In this review, the focus will be on how the landscape of mutations evolves during disease progression considering therapy. It will focus on a select group of early and late mutations and utilize SPOP mutations to illustrate recurrent alterations that may have clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kellie Cotter
- Department for BioMedical ResearchUniversity of BernBernSwitzerland
| | - Mark A. Rubin
- Department for BioMedical ResearchUniversity of BernBernSwitzerland
- Bern Center for Precision MedicineUniversity of BernBernSwitzerland
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8
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Raspin K, O'Malley DE, Marthick JR, Donovan S, Malley RC, Banks A, Redwig F, Skala M, Dickinson JL, FitzGerald LM. Analysis of a large prostate cancer family identifies novel and recurrent gene fusion events providing evidence for inherited predisposition. Prostate 2022; 82:540-550. [PMID: 34994974 DOI: 10.1002/pros.24300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
There is strong interest in the characterisation of gene fusions and their use to enhance clinical practices in prostate cancer (PrCa). Significantly, ~50% of prostate tumours harbour a gene fusion. Inherited factors are thought to predispose to these events but, to date, only one study has investigated gene fusions in a familial context. Here, we examined the prevalence and diversity of gene fusions in 14 tumours from a single large PrCa family, PcTas9, using the TruSight® RNA Fusion Panel and Sanger sequencing validation. These fusions were then explored in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) PrCa data set (n = 494). Overall, 64.3% of PcTas9 tumours harboured a gene fusion, including known erythroblast transformation-specific (ETS) fusions involving ERG and ETV1, and two novel gene fusions, C19orf48:ETV4 and RYBP:FOXP1. Although 3' ETS genes were overexpressed in PcTas9 and TCGA tumour samples, 3' fusion of FOXP1 did not appear to alter its expression. In addition, PcTas9 fusion carriers were more likely to have lower-grade disease than noncarriers (p = 0.02). Likewise, TCGA tumours with high-grade disease were less likely to harbour fusions (p = 0.03). Our study further implicates an inherited predisposition to PrCa gene fusion events, which are associated with less aggressive tumours. This knowledge could lead to clinical strategies to predict men at risk for fusion-positive PrCa and, thus, identify patients who are more or less at risk of aggressive disease and/or responsive to particular therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsie Raspin
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Dannielle E O'Malley
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - James R Marthick
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | | | - Roslyn C Malley
- Hobart Pathology, Hobart, TAS, Australia
- School of Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Annette Banks
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Frank Redwig
- Department of Urology, Royal Hobart Hospital, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Marketa Skala
- WP Holman Clinic, Royal Hobart Hospital, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Joanne L Dickinson
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Liesel M FitzGerald
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
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9
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Lorenzin F, Demichelis F. Past, Current, and Future Strategies to Target ERG Fusion-Positive Prostate Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14051118. [PMID: 35267426 PMCID: PMC8909394 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14051118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In addition to its role in development and in the vascular and hematopoietic systems, ERG plays a central role in prostate cancer. Approximately 40–50% of prostate cancer cases are characterized by ERG gene fusions, which lead to ERG overexpression. Importantly, inhibition of ERG activity in prostate cancer cells decreases their viability. Therefore, inhibiting ERG might represent an important step to improve treatment efficacy for patients with ERG-positive prostate tumors. Here, we summarize the attempts made over the past years to repress ERG activity, the current use of ERG fusion detection and the strategies that might be utilized in the future to treat ERG fusion-positive tumors. Abstract The ETS family member ERG is a transcription factor with physiological roles during development and in the vascular and hematopoietic systems. ERG oncogenic activity characterizes several malignancies, including Ewing’s sarcoma, leukemia and prostate cancer (PCa). In PCa, ERG rearrangements with androgen-regulated genes—mostly TMPRSS2—characterize a large subset of patients across disease progression and result in androgen receptor (AR)-mediated overexpression of ERG in the prostate cells. Importantly, PCa cells overexpressing ERG are dependent on ERG activity for survival, further highlighting its therapeutic potential. Here, we review the current understanding of the role of ERG and its partners in PCa. We discuss the strategies developed in recent years to inhibit ERG activity, the current therapeutic utility of ERG fusion detection in PCa patients, and the possible future approaches to target ERG fusion-positive tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Lorenzin
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology, CIBIO, University of Trento, 38123 Trento, Italy
- Correspondence: (F.L.); (F.D.)
| | - Francesca Demichelis
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology, CIBIO, University of Trento, 38123 Trento, Italy
- The HRH Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10021, USA
- The Caryl and Israel Englander Institute for Precision Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA
- Correspondence: (F.L.); (F.D.)
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10
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Chen Y, Su F, Cheng Y, He X, Li Z. Sensitive detection of fusion transcripts with padlock probe-based continuous cascade amplification (P-CCA). Analyst 2022; 147:2207-2214. [DOI: 10.1039/d2an00341d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
A padlock probe-based continuous cascade amplification (P-CCA) is proposed for assaying fusion transcripts with high sensitivity and specificity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutong Chen
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, 30 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Fengxia Su
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, 30 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Yongqiang Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Diagnosis (Hebei University), Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Analytical Science and Technology of Hebei Province, College of Chemistry and Environmental Science, Hebei University, Baoding, 071002, Hebei, P. R. China
| | - Xiaofei He
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, 30 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Zhengping Li
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, 30 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100083, China
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11
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Hoogstrate Y, Komor MA, Böttcher R, van Riet J, van de Werken HJG, van Lieshout S, Hoffmann R, van den Broek E, Bolijn AS, Dits N, Sie D, van der Meer D, Pepers F, Bangma CH, van Leenders GJLH, Smid M, French PJ, Martens JWM, van Workum W, van der Spek PJ, Janssen B, Caldenhoven E, Rausch C, de Jong M, Stubbs AP, Meijer GA, Fijneman RJA, Jenster GW. Fusion transcripts and their genomic breakpoints in polyadenylated and ribosomal RNA-minus RNA sequencing data. Gigascience 2021; 10:6458609. [PMID: 34891161 PMCID: PMC8673554 DOI: 10.1093/gigascience/giab080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fusion genes are typically identified by RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) without elucidating the causal genomic breakpoints. However, non-poly(A)-enriched RNA-seq contains large proportions of intronic reads that also span genomic breakpoints. RESULTS We have developed an algorithm, Dr. Disco, that searches for fusion transcripts by taking an entire reference genome into account as search space. This includes exons but also introns, intergenic regions, and sequences that do not meet splice junction motifs. Using 1,275 RNA-seq samples, we investigated to what extent genomic breakpoints can be extracted from RNA-seq data and their implications regarding poly(A)-enriched and ribosomal RNA-minus RNA-seq data. Comparison with whole-genome sequencing data revealed that most genomic breakpoints are not, or minimally, transcribed while, in contrast, the genomic breakpoints of all 32 TMPRSS2-ERG-positive tumours were present at RNA level. We also revealed tumours in which the ERG breakpoint was located before ERG, which co-existed with additional deletions and messenger RNA that incorporated intergenic cryptic exons. In breast cancer we identified rearrangement hot spots near CCND1 and in glioma near CDK4 and MDM2 and could directly associate this with increased expression. Furthermore, in all datasets we find fusions to intergenic regions, often spanning multiple cryptic exons that potentially encode neo-antigens. Thus, fusion transcripts other than classical gene-to-gene fusions are prominently present and can be identified using RNA-seq. CONCLUSION By using the full potential of non-poly(A)-enriched RNA-seq data, sophisticated analysis can reliably identify expressed genomic breakpoints and their transcriptional effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youri Hoogstrate
- Department of Urology, Erasmus Medical Center Cancer Institute, Wytemaweg 80, Rotterdam 3015GD, The Netherlands.,Department of Neurology, Erasmus Medical Center Cancer Institute, Wytemaweg 80, Rotterdam 3015GD, The Netherlands
| | - Malgorzata A Komor
- Department of Pathology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam 3015GD, The Netherlands
| | - René Böttcher
- Department of Urology, Erasmus Medical Center Cancer Institute, Wytemaweg 80, Rotterdam 3015GD, The Netherlands.,Department of Life Sciences, Barcelona Supercomputing Center, Barcelona 08034, Spain
| | - Job van Riet
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GD, The Netherlands
| | - Harmen J G van de Werken
- Department of Urology, Erasmus Medical Center Cancer Institute, Wytemaweg 80, Rotterdam 3015GD, The Netherlands.,Cancer Computational Biology Center, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GD, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Evert van den Broek
- Department of Pathology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam 3015GD, The Netherlands.,Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen 9713GZ, The Netherlands
| | - Anne S Bolijn
- Department of Pathology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam 3015GD, The Netherlands
| | - Natasja Dits
- Department of Urology, Erasmus Medical Center Cancer Institute, Wytemaweg 80, Rotterdam 3015GD, The Netherlands
| | - Daoud Sie
- Department of Pathology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam 3015GD, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Chris H Bangma
- Department of Urology, Erasmus Medical Center Cancer Institute, Wytemaweg 80, Rotterdam 3015GD, The Netherlands
| | | | - Marcel Smid
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GD, The Netherlands
| | - Pim J French
- Department of Neurology, Erasmus Medical Center Cancer Institute, Wytemaweg 80, Rotterdam 3015GD, The Netherlands
| | - John W M Martens
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GD, The Netherlands
| | | | - Peter J van der Spek
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GD, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | | - Andrew P Stubbs
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam 3015GD, The Netherlands
| | - Gerrit A Meijer
- Department of Pathology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam 3015GD, The Netherlands
| | - Remond J A Fijneman
- Department of Pathology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam 3015GD, The Netherlands
| | - Guido W Jenster
- Department of Urology, Erasmus Medical Center Cancer Institute, Wytemaweg 80, Rotterdam 3015GD, The Netherlands
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12
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Mehta S, Kulkarni S, Nikam AN, Padya BS, Pandey A, Mutalik S. Liposomes as Versatile Platform for Cancer Theranostics: Therapy, Bio-imaging, and Toxicological Aspects. Curr Pharm Des 2021; 27:1977-1991. [PMID: 33719968 DOI: 10.2174/1381612827666210311142100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Liposomes are nano-sized formulations having the benefits of site-specificity, biocompatibility, and biodegradability, which make them useful for the therapy and diagnosis of major diseases like cancer. In this review, various synthetic strategies of liposomes and their biomedical application in special concern to cancer are discussed. In context to the biomedical application, this article gives a detailed insight into subcellular targeted therapy and several therapeutic modifications like immunotherapy, receptor-based therapy, phototherapy, and combination therapy. The review also describes the liposome-based imaging platforms and the toxicity associated with liposomes. Owing to a significant amount of benefits of this carrier system, several products have been approved to be launched in the market and several others have already been marketed for clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swapnil Mehta
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka State, India
| | - Sanjay Kulkarni
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka State, India
| | - Ajinkya N Nikam
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka State, India
| | - Bharat S Padya
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka State, India
| | - Abhijeet Pandey
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka State, India
| | - Srinivas Mutalik
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka State, India
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13
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EZH2-induced lysine K362 methylation enhances TMPRSS2-ERG oncogenic activity in prostate cancer. Nat Commun 2021; 12:4147. [PMID: 34230470 PMCID: PMC8260656 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-24380-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
The TMPRSS2-ERG gene fusion is the most frequent alteration observed in human prostate cancer. However, its role in disease progression is still unclear. In this study, we uncover an important mechanism promoting ERG oncogenic activity. We show that ERG is methylated by Enhancer of zest homolog 2 (EZH2) at a specific lysine residue (K362) located within the internal auto-inhibitory domain. Mechanistically, K362 methylation modifies intra-domain interactions, favors DNA binding and enhances ERG transcriptional activity. In a genetically engineered mouse model of ERG fusion-positive prostate cancer (Pb-Cre4 Ptenflox/floxRosa26-ERG, ERG/PTEN), ERG K362 methylation is associated with PTEN loss and progression to invasive adenocarcinomas. In both ERG positive VCaP cells and ERG/PTEN mice, PTEN loss results in AKT activation and EZH2 phosphorylation at serine 21 that favors ERG methylation. We find that ERG and EZH2 interact and co-occupy several sites in the genome forming trans-activating complexes. Consistently, ERG/EZH2 co-regulated target genes are deregulated preferentially in tumors with concomitant ERG gain and PTEN loss and in castration-resistant prostate cancers. Collectively, these findings identify ERG methylation as a post-translational modification sustaining disease progression in ERG-positive prostate cancers. Although the TMPRSS2-ERG gene fusion is the most common alteration in human prostate cancer, its involvement in disease progression remains unclear. Here, the authors demonstrate that ERG is methylated by Enhancer of zest homolog 2 leading to enhanced transcriptional and oncogenic activity.
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14
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Zong Z, Wei Y, Ren J, Zhang L, Zhou F. The intersection of COVID-19 and cancer: signaling pathways and treatment implications. Mol Cancer 2021; 20:76. [PMID: 34001144 PMCID: PMC8126512 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-021-01363-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The outbreak of the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has emerged as a serious public health concern. Patients with cancer have been disproportionately affected by this pandemic. Increasing evidence has documented that patients with malignancies are highly susceptible to severe infections and mortality from COVID-19. Recent studies have also elucidated the molecular relationship between the two diseases, which may not only help optimize cancer care during the pandemic but also expand the treatment for COVID-19. In this review, we highlight the clinical and molecular similarities between cancer and COVID-19 and summarize the four major signaling pathways at the intersection of COVID-19 and cancer, namely, cytokine, type I interferon (IFN-I), androgen receptor (AR), and immune checkpoint signaling. In addition, we discuss the advantages and disadvantages of repurposing anticancer treatment for the treatment of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Zong
- Institutes of Biology and Medical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
- MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- The Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518033, China
| | - Yujun Wei
- Anhui Anlong Gene Technology Co., Ltd, Hefei, 230041, China
| | - Jiang Ren
- The Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518033, China
| | - Long Zhang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Fangfang Zhou
- Institutes of Biology and Medical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China.
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15
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Detection of TMPRSS2-ERG Fusion Transcript in Biopsy Specimen of Prostate Cancer Patients: A Single Centre Experience. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 41:5-14. [PMID: 32573479 DOI: 10.2478/prilozi-2020-0018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Prostate carcinoma is the most frequent malign neoplasm among men with an ever-growing incidence rate. TMPRSS2-ERG fusion transcript leads to the androgen induction of ERG proto-oncogenes expression, representing a high presence of oncogenes alteration among prostate tumour cells. AIM The aim of this research was to detect and evaluate theTMPRSS2-ERG fuse transcript in the tissues of patients with prostate cancer, and establish a base of material of these samples for further genetic examination. MATERIALS AND METHODS The research was a prospective clinical study that involved and focused on random sampling of 101 patients (62 with prostate cancer-study group and 39 with benign changes in the prostate-control group). Real time PCR analysis for detection of the TMPRSS2-ERG fusion transcript in prostate tissue was performed and also data from the histopathology results of tissues were used, as well as data for the level of PSA (prostate-specific antigen) in blood. RESULTS TMPRSS2-ERG fusion transcript was detected in 20 out of 62 (32.2%) patients with prostate carcinoma and among no patients with benign changes whatsoever. There were no significant differences between patients with/without detected TMPRSS2-ERG fusion related to Gleason score. Among 50%, in the study group this score was greater than 7 per/for Median IQR=7 (6-8). Significant difference was recognized, related to the average value of PSA in favour of significantly higher value of PSA in the study group with prostate cancer, but there was also no significant difference between samples with prostate cancer who were with/without detected TMPRSS2-ERG fusion transcript related to PSA level. DISCUSSION The results from this research are in accordance with the values and results from analyses done in several research centres and oncological institutes. CONCLUSION The positive findings in small scale studies encourage the implementation of larger scale studies that will be enriched with results of genetic transcript in blood and urine and will define the positive diagnostic meaning of the TMPRSS-ERG fusion transcript.
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16
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Brady L, Kriner M, Coleman I, Morrissey C, Roudier M, True LD, Gulati R, Plymate SR, Zhou Z, Birditt B, Meredith R, Geiss G, Hoang M, Beechem J, Nelson PS. Inter- and intra-tumor heterogeneity of metastatic prostate cancer determined by digital spatial gene expression profiling. Nat Commun 2021; 12:1426. [PMID: 33658518 PMCID: PMC7930198 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-21615-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Metastatic prostate cancer (mPC) comprises a spectrum of diverse phenotypes. However, the extent of inter- and intra-tumor heterogeneity is not established. Here we use digital spatial profiling (DSP) technology to quantitate transcript and protein abundance in spatially-distinct regions of mPCs. By assessing multiple discrete areas across multiple metastases, we find a high level of intra-patient homogeneity with respect to tumor phenotype. However, there are notable exceptions including tumors comprised of regions with high and low androgen receptor (AR) and neuroendocrine activity. While the vast majority of metastases examined are devoid of significant inflammatory infiltrates and lack PD1, PD-L1 and CTLA4, the B7-H3/CD276 immune checkpoint protein is highly expressed, particularly in mPCs with high AR activity. Our results demonstrate the utility of DSP for accurately classifying tumor phenotype, assessing tumor heterogeneity, and identifying aspects of tumor biology involving the immunological composition of metastases. The inter- and intra-tumor heterogeneity of metastatic prostate cancer (mPC) is underexplored. Here the authors use Digital Spatial Profiling to study gene and protein expression heterogeneity in 27 mPC patients, finding variation in associated pathways and potential immunotherapy targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Brady
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Ilsa Coleman
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Roman Gulati
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Stephen R Plymate
- University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.,VAPSHCS-GRECC, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Zoey Zhou
- NanoString Technologies, Inc., Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | | | - Gary Geiss
- NanoString Technologies, Inc., Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | | | - Peter S Nelson
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA. .,University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
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17
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Afshari A, Janfeshan S, Yaghobi R, Roozbeh J, Azarpira N. Covid-19 pathogenesis in prostatic cancer and TMPRSS2-ERG regulatory genetic pathway. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2020; 88:104669. [PMID: 33301988 PMCID: PMC7720011 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2020.104669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Revised: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Members of Coronaviridae family have been the source of respiratory illnesses. The outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 that produced a severe lung disease in afflicted patients in China and other countries was the reason for the incredible attention paid toward this viral infection. It is known that SARS-CoV-2 is dependent on TMPRSS2 activity for entrance and subsequent infection of the host cells and TMPRSS2 is a host cell molecule that is important for the spread of viruses such as coronaviruses. Different factors can increase the risk of prostate cancer, including older age, a family history of the disease. Androgen receptor (AR) initiates a transcriptional cascade which plays a serious role in both normal and malignant prostate tissues. TMPRSS2 protein is highly expressed in prostate secretory epithelial cells, and its expression is dependent on androgen signals. One of the molecular signs of prostate cancer is TMPRSS2-ERG gene fusion. In TMPRSS2-ERG-positive prostate cancers different patterns of changed gene expression can be detected. The possible molecular relation between fusion positive prostate cancer patients and the increased risk of lethal respiratory viral infections especially SARS-CoV-2 can candidate TMPRSS2 as an attractive drug target. The studies show that some molecules such as nicotinamide, PARP1, ETS and IL-1R can be studied deeper in order to control SARS-CoV-2 infection especially in prostate cancer patients. This review attempts to investigate the possible relation between the gene expression pattern that is produced through TMPRSS2-ERG fusion positive prostate cancer and the possible influence of these fluctuations on the pathogenesis and development of viral infections such as SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afsoon Afshari
- Shiraz Nephro-Urology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Shiraz Transplant Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Sahar Janfeshan
- Shiraz Nephro-Urology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Ramin Yaghobi
- Shiraz Nephro-Urology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Shiraz Transplant Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Jamshid Roozbeh
- Shiraz Nephro-Urology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Negar Azarpira
- Shiraz Transplant Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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18
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Oligometastatic Prostate Adenocarcinoma. Clinical-Pathologic Study of a Histologically Under-Recognized Prostate Cancer. J Pers Med 2020; 10:jpm10040265. [PMID: 33291528 PMCID: PMC7761807 DOI: 10.3390/jpm10040265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The clinical parameters and the histological and immunohistochemical findings of a prospective protocolized series of 27 prostate carcinoma patients with oligometastatic disease followed homogeneously were analyzed. Lymph nodes (81.5%) and bones (18.5%) were the only metastatic sites. Local control after metastatic directed treatment was achieved in 22 (81.5%) patients. A total of 8 (29.6%) patients developed castration-resistant prostate cancer. Seventeen (63%) patients presented with non-organ confined disease. The Gleason index 8-10 was the most frequently observed (12 cases, 44.4%) combined grade. Positive immunostainings were detected with androgen receptor (100%), PGP 9.5 (74%), ERG (40.7%), chromogranin A (29.6%), and synaptophysin (18.5%) antibodies. The Ki-67 index value > 5% was observed in 15% of the cases. L1CAM immunostaining was negative in all cases. Fisher exact test showed that successful local control of metastases was associated to mild inflammation, organ confined disease, Ki-67 index < 5%, and Gleason index 3 + 3. A castration resistant status was associated with severe inflammation, atrophy, a Gleason index higher than 3 + 3, Ki-67 index ≥ 5%, and positive PGP 9.5, chromogranin A, and synaptophysin immunostainings. In conclusion, oligometastatic prostate adenocarcinoma does not have a specific clinical-pathologic profile. However, some histologic and immunohistochemical parameters of routine use may help with making therapeutic decisions.
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19
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Xu C, Luo J, Wang M, Wang Y, Chen Z, Cao Y, Hong Y, Xu X, Yang J. Detection of tmprss2-erg and tmprss2-egr1 gene fusion in prostate cancer from a Chinese population. EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL HUMAN GENETICS 2020. [DOI: 10.1186/s43042-020-00092-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
TMPRSS2: ETS gene fusion occurs recurrently in a high proportion of prostate cancer (PCa) patients in Western countries. However, for Chinese PCa patients, no solid conclusion could be drawn from the present studies, as the results varied considerably between the limited reports.
Results
In this study, we evaluated the prevalence of such gene rearrangements in a small number of Chinese PCa patients and discovered that 6 out of 27 (22.2%) were found to harbor the TMPRSS2: ERG fusion, the ratio was much lower than that in Western countries. Furthermore, we first identified TMPRSS2: EGR1 gene fusion, suggesting other chromosome rearrangements besides ETS gene family harbor in prostate cancer. The hybrid transcript was predicted to encode a truncated EGR1 protein by ORF finder, which might play a key role in prostate cancer.
Conclusions
We reported that the total occurrence rate of TMPRSS2: ERG fusion gene in this small group of Chinese patients was lower than the reported frequencies in European descent patients but comparable to other reported frequencies in Asian populations. The occurrence of TMPRSS2: EGR1 gene fusion suggested other chromosome rearrangements in prostate cancer.
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20
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Hong Z, Zhang W, Ding D, Huang Z, Yan Y, Cao W, Pan Y, Hou X, Weroha SJ, Karnes RJ, Wang D, Wu Q, Wu D, Huang H. DNA Damage Promotes TMPRSS2-ERG Oncoprotein Destruction and Prostate Cancer Suppression via Signaling Converged by GSK3β and WEE1. Mol Cell 2020; 79:1008-1023.e4. [PMID: 32871104 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2020.07.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
TMPRSS2-ERG gene fusion occurs in approximately 50% of cases of prostate cancer (PCa), and the fusion product is a key driver of prostate oncogenesis. However, how to leverage cellular signaling to ablate TMPRSS2-ERG oncoprotein for PCa treatment remains elusive. Here, we demonstrate that DNA damage induces proteasomal degradation of wild-type ERG and TMPRSS2-ERG oncoprotein through ERG threonine-187 and tyrosine-190 phosphorylation mediated by GSK3β and WEE1, respectively. The dual phosphorylation triggers ERG recognition and degradation by the E3 ubiquitin ligase FBW7 in a manner independent of a canonical degron. DNA damage-induced TMPRSS2-ERG degradation was abolished by cancer-associated PTEN deletion or GSK3β inactivation. Blockade of DNA damage-induced TMPRSS2-ERG oncoprotein degradation causes chemotherapy-resistant growth of fusion-positive PCa cells in culture and in mice. Our findings uncover a previously unrecognized TMPRSS2-ERG protein destruction mechanism and demonstrate that intact PTEN and GSK3β signaling are essential for effective targeting of ERG protein by genotoxic therapeutics in fusion-positive PCa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Hong
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200065, China; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN 55905, USA; Basic Medical College, Jilin Medical University, Jilin, Jilin 132013, China
| | - Donglin Ding
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Zhenlin Huang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Yuqian Yan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - William Cao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Yunqian Pan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Xiaonan Hou
- Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Saravut J Weroha
- Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - R Jeffrey Karnes
- Department of Urology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN 55905, USA; Mayo Clinic Cancer Center, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Dejie Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Qiang Wu
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200065, China; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
| | - Denglong Wu
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200065, China.
| | - Haojie Huang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN 55905, USA; Department of Urology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN 55905, USA; Mayo Clinic Cancer Center, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
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21
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Merging new-age biomarkers and nanodiagnostics for precision prostate cancer management. Nat Rev Urol 2020; 16:302-317. [PMID: 30962568 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-019-0178-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The accurate identification and stratified treatment of clinically significant early-stage prostate cancer have been ongoing concerns since the outcomes of large international prostate cancer screening trials were reported. The controversy surrounding clinical and cost benefits of prostate cancer screening has highlighted the lack of strategies for discriminating high-risk disease (that requires early treatment) from low-risk disease (that could be managed using watchful waiting or active surveillance). Advances in molecular subtyping and multiomics nanotechnology-based prostate cancer risk delineation can enable refinement of prostate cancer molecular taxonomy into clinically meaningful and treatable subtypes. Furthermore, the presence of intertumoural and intratumoural heterogeneity in prostate cancer warrants the development of novel nanodiagnostic technologies to identify clinically significant prostate cancer in a rapid, cost-effective and accurate manner. Circulating and urinary next-generation prostate cancer biomarkers for disease molecular subtyping and the newest complementary nanodiagnostic platforms for enhanced biomarker detection are promising tools for precision prostate cancer management. However, challenges in merging both aspects and clinical translation still need to be overcome.
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22
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Shao L, Kahraman N, Yan G, Wang J, Ozpolat B, Ittmann M. Targeting the TMPRSS2/ERG fusion mRNA using liposomal nanovectors enhances docetaxel treatment in prostate cancer. Prostate 2020; 80:65-73. [PMID: 31614005 PMCID: PMC6925833 DOI: 10.1002/pros.23918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The TMPRSS2/ERG (TE) fusion gene is present in half of the prostate cancers (PCas). The TMPRSS2 and ERG junction of the fusion messenger RNA (mRNA) constitutes a cancer-specific target. Although docetaxel-based chemotherapy is the second line of therapy following development resistance to androgen ablation therapies, it is not curative. Therefore, the development of nontoxic novel monotherapies for targeting TE mRNA in PCa patients and for increasing the clinical efficacy of docetaxel treatment are needed. METHODS We evaluated multiple approaches to enhance the delivery of TE small interfering RNA (siRNA) containing liposomes including PEGylation, topical treatment with nitroglycerin (NG) to increase permeability and retention, and three different PEG modifications: folate, RGD cyclic peptide, and a bFGF fibroblast growth factor receptor-targeting peptide. The efficacy of the optimized TE siRNA liposome in combination with docetaxel was then evaluated in vivo with or without topical NG in vivo using a VCaP xenograft model. TE fusion protein knockdown in residual tumors was assessed using Western blotting and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS In vivo therapeutic targeting of TE fusion gene by systemic delivery of RGD-peptide-coated liposomal siRNA nanovectors led to sustained target silencing, suppressed tumor growth in xenograft models and enhanced the efficacy of docetaxel chemotherapy. Simultaneous application of the vasodilator NG to the skin further increased tissue the delivery of siRNA and enhanced target knockdown. CONCLUSION TE-targeted gene silencing therapy using liposomal nanovectors is a potential therapeutic strategy as a monotherapy and to enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy in patients with advanced PCa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Longjiang Shao
- Dept. of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine and Michael E. DeBakey Dept. of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Nermin Kahraman
- Departments of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston,Texas 77030
| | - Ge Yan
- Dept. of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine and Michael E. DeBakey Dept. of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Jianghua Wang
- Dept. of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine and Michael E. DeBakey Dept. of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Bulent Ozpolat
- Departments of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston,Texas 77030
| | - Michael Ittmann
- Dept. of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine and Michael E. DeBakey Dept. of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, Texas 77030
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23
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Lemos AEG, Matos ADR, Ferreira LB, Gimba ERP. The long non-coding RNA PCA3: an update of its functions and clinical applications as a biomarker in prostate cancer. Oncotarget 2019; 10:6589-6603. [PMID: 31762940 PMCID: PMC6859920 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.27284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Accepted: 09/24/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer antigen 3 (PCA3) is an overexpressed prostate long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), transcribed from an intronic region at the long arm of human chromosome 9q21–22. It has been described that PCA3 modulates prostate cancer (PCa) cell survival through modulating androgen receptor (AR) signaling, besides controlling the expression of several androgen responsive and cancer-related genes, including epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers and those regulating gene expression and cell signaling. Also, PCA3 urine levels have been successfully used as a PCa diagnostic biomarker. In this review, we have highlighted recent findings regarding PCA3, addressing its gene structure, putative applications as a biomarker, a proposed origin of this lncRNA, roles in PCa biology and expression patterns. We also updated data regarding PCA3 interactions with cancer-related miRNAs and expression in other tissues and diseases beyond the prostate. Altogether, literature data indicate aberrant expression and dysregulated activity of PCA3, suggesting PCA3 as a promising relevant target that should be even further evaluated on its applicability for PCa detection and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Emília Goulart Lemos
- Departamento de Epidemiologia e Métodos Quantitativos em Saúde, Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública/Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.,Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biomédicas - Fisiologia e Farmacologia, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Aline da Rocha Matos
- Laboratório de Vírus Respiratórios e do Sarampo, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Etel Rodrigues Pereira Gimba
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biomédicas - Fisiologia e Farmacologia, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.,Coordenação de Pesquisa, Instituto Nacional do Câncer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.,Departamento de Ciências da Natureza (RCN), Instituto de Humanidades e Saúde, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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24
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Neckles C, Sundara Rajan S, Caplen NJ. Fusion transcripts: Unexploited vulnerabilities in cancer? WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-RNA 2019; 11:e1562. [PMID: 31407506 PMCID: PMC6916338 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2019] [Revised: 07/05/2019] [Accepted: 07/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Gene fusions are an important class of mutations in several cancer types and include genomic rearrangements that fuse regulatory or coding elements from two different genes. Analysis of the genetics of cancers harboring fusion oncogenes and the proteins they encode have enhanced cancer diagnosis and in some cases patient treatment. However, the effect of the complex structure of fusion genes on the biogenesis of the resulting chimeric transcripts they express is not well studied. There are two potential RNA‐related vulnerabilities inherent to fusion‐driven cancers: (a) the processing of the fusion precursor messenger RNA (pre‐mRNA) to the mature mRNA and (b) the mature mRNA. In this study, we discuss the effects that the genetic organization of fusion oncogenes has on the generation of translatable mature RNAs and the diversity of fusion transcripts expressed in different cancer subtypes, which can fundamentally influence both tumorigenesis and treatment. We also discuss functional genomic approaches that can be utilized to identify proteins that mediate the processing of fusion pre‐mRNAs. Furthermore, we assert that an enhanced understanding of fusion transcript biogenesis and the diversity of the chimeric RNAs present in fusion‐driven cancers will increase the likelihood of successful application of RNA‐based therapies in this class of tumors. This article is categorized under:RNA Processing > RNA Editing and Modification RNA Processing > Splicing Regulation/Alternative Splicing RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Neckles
- Functional Genetics Section, Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, DHHS, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Soumya Sundara Rajan
- Functional Genetics Section, Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, DHHS, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Natasha J Caplen
- Functional Genetics Section, Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, DHHS, Bethesda, Maryland
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25
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Aldaoud N, Graboski-Bauer A, Abdo N, Al Bashir S, Oweis AO, Ebwaini H, Hasen Y, Alazab R, Trpkov K. ERG expression in prostate cancer biopsies with and without high-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia: a study in Jordanian Arab patients. Res Rep Urol 2019; 11:149-155. [PMID: 31192172 PMCID: PMC6535407 DOI: 10.2147/rru.s207843] [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: 03/06/2019] [Accepted: 04/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: High-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (HGPIN) is the most likely precancerous lesion for prostatic adenocarcinoma (PCa). Recent molecular studies have shown that HGPIN can harbor TMPRSS2-ERG fusion, a genetic marker also associated with PCa, which may provide an additional risk stratification tool for HGPIN, especially when present as an isolated lesion. Our aim was to assess the frequency of HGPIN and ERG expression in a cohort of prostatic needle core biopsies from Jordanian-Arab patients with PCa. Materials and methods: We studied 109 needle core biopsies from patients with PCa. Clinical data, including age and preoperative prostate specific antigen (PSA) level, were obtained from patients’ medical records. Results: HGPIN was present in 31 (28.4 %) of the 109 cases. Of the HGPIN cases, 13 (41.9%) expressed ERG immunostain. ERG expression in HGPIN was independent of patient age at presentation (P=0.4), pre-operative PSA (P=0.9), and the grade, using the novel Grade Groups (P=0.5). Conclusion: The frequency of HGPIN in our cohort appears similar to the one found in the Western patient populations and demonstrates a comparable frequency of ERG expression in these lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najla Aldaoud
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, King Abdullah University Hospital, Irbid, Jordan.,Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | | | - Nour Abdo
- Department of Public Health, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Samir Al Bashir
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, King Abdullah University Hospital, Irbid, Jordan.,Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Ashraf O Oweis
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Hanadi Ebwaini
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, King Abdullah University Hospital, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Yousef Hasen
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, King Abdullah University Hospital, Irbid, Jordan.,Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan.,Attasami Diagnostic Center, Tripoli, Libya
| | - Rami Alazab
- Division of Urology, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Irbid
| | - Kiril Trpkov
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
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26
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Bai Y, Zhang Z, Cheng L, Wang R, Chen X, Kong Y, Feng F, Ahmad N, Li L, Liu X. Inhibition of enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) overcomes enzalutamide resistance in castration-resistant prostate cancer. J Biol Chem 2019; 294:9911-9923. [PMID: 31085587 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra119.008152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2019] [Revised: 05/05/2019] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Enzalutamide, approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration in 2018 for the management of metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), is an androgen receptor (AR) inhibitor. It blocks androgen binding to the AR, AR nuclear translocation, and AR-mediated DNA binding. Unfortunately, a considerable proportion of tumors eventually develop resistance during the treatment. The molecular mechanisms underlying enzalutamide resistance are not completely understood. Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), the catalytic subunit of polycomb repressor complex 2, has been proposed as a prognostic marker for prostate cancer (PCa). With the goal to test whether EZH2 also plays a critical role in acquisition of enzalutamide resistance in CRPC, here we examined whether EZH2 inhibition/depletion enhances the efficacy of enzalutamide in enzalutamide-resistant PCa cells. We show that combining the EZH2 inhibitor GSK126 with enzalutamide synergistically inhibits cell proliferation and colony formation and promotes apoptosis in enzalutamide-resistant PCa cells. EZH2 depletion also overcomes enzalutamide resistance in both cultured cells and xenograft tumors. Mechanistically, we found that EZH2 directly binds to the promoter of prostate-specific antigen and inhibits its expression in enzalutamide-resistant PCa cells. In agreement, bioinformatics analysis of clinical RNA sequencing data involving GSEA indicated a strong correlation between AR and EZH2 gene expression during PCa progression. Our study provides critical insights into the mechanisms underlying enzalutamide resistance, which may offer new approaches to enhance the efficacy of enzalutamide in CRPC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunfeng Bai
- From the Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology and.,the School of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shanxi Datong University, Datong, Shanxi 037009, China
| | | | - Lijun Cheng
- the Department of Biomedical Informatics, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210, and
| | - Ruixin Wang
- From the Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology and
| | - Xiaoliang Chen
- From the Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology and.,the School of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shanxi Datong University, Datong, Shanxi 037009, China
| | - Yifan Kong
- From the Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology and
| | - Feng Feng
- the School of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shanxi Datong University, Datong, Shanxi 037009, China
| | - Nihal Ahmad
- the Department of Dermatology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin 53715
| | - Lang Li
- the Department of Biomedical Informatics, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210, and
| | - Xiaoqi Liu
- From the Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology and .,the Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536
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27
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Evaluating gene fusions in solid tumors – Clinical experience using an RNA based 53 gene next-generation sequencing panel. Cancer Genet 2019; 233-234:32-42. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cancergen.2019.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2018] [Revised: 02/22/2019] [Accepted: 03/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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28
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Rubin MA, Demichelis F. The Genomics of Prostate Cancer: A Historic Perspective. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2019; 9:cshperspect.a034942. [PMID: 29712681 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a034942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The genomics of prostate cancer (PCA) has been difficult to study compared with some other cancer types for a multitude of reasons, despite significant efforts since the early 1980s. Overcoming some of these obstacles has paved the way for greater insight into the genomics of PCA. The advent of high-throughput technologies coming from the initial use of microsatellite and oligonucleotide probes gave rise to techniques like comparative genomic hybridization (CGH). With the introduction of massively parallel genomic sequencing, referred to as next-generation sequencing (NGS), a deeper understanding of cancer genomics in general has occurred. Along with these technologic advances, there has been the development of computational biology and statistical approaches to address novel large data sets characterized by single base resolution. This review will provide a historic perspective of PCA genomics with an emphasis on the cardinal mutations and alterations observed to be consistently seen in PCA for both hormone-naïve localized PCA and castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). There will be a focus on alterations that have the greatest potential to play a role in disease progression and therapy management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A Rubin
- Englander Institute for Precision Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College-New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, New York 10065.,Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center at Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York 10021.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York 10021.,Department of BioMedical Research, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Francesca Demichelis
- Englander Institute for Precision Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College-New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, New York 10065.,Centre for Integrative Biology, University of Trento, 38123 Trento, Italy
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29
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Nicholas TR, Strittmatter BG, Hollenhorst PC. Oncogenic ETS Factors in Prostate Cancer. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1210:409-436. [PMID: 31900919 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-32656-2_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Prostate cancer is unique among carcinomas in that a fusion gene created by a chromosomal rearrangement is a common driver of the disease. The TMPRSS2/ERG rearrangement drives aberrant expression of the ETS family transcription factor ERG in 50% of prostate tumors. Similar rearrangements promote aberrant expression of the ETS family transcription factors ETV1 and ETV4 in another 10% of cases. Together, these three ETS factors are thought to promote tumorigenesis in the majority of prostate cancers. A goal of precision medicine is to be able to apply targeted therapeutics that are specific to disease subtypes. ETS gene rearrangement positive tumors represent the largest molecular subtype of prostate cancer, but to date there is no treatment specific to this marker. In this chapter we will review the latest findings regarding the molecular mechanisms of ETS factor function in the prostate. These molecular details may provide a path towards new therapeutic targets for this subtype of prostate cancer. Further, we will describe efforts to target the oncogenic functions of ETS family transcription factors directly as well as indirectly.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Brady G Strittmatter
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Peter C Hollenhorst
- Medical Sciences, Indiana University School of Medicine, Bloomington, IN, USA.
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30
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Wang S, Ekoue DN, Raj GV, Kittler R. Targeting the turnover of oncoproteins as a new avenue for therapeutics development in castration-resistant prostate cancer. Cancer Lett 2018; 438:86-96. [PMID: 30217566 PMCID: PMC6186492 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2018.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Revised: 08/23/2018] [Accepted: 09/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The current therapeutic armamentarium for castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) includes second-generation agents such as the Androgen Receptor (AR) inhibitor enzalutamide and the androgen synthesis inhibitor abiraterone acetate, immunotherapies like sipuleucel-T, chemotherapies including docetaxel and cabazitaxel and the radiopharmaceutical radium 223 dichloride. However, relapse of CRPC resistant to these therapeutic modalities occur rapidly. The mechanisms of resistance to these treatments are complex, including specific mutations or alternative splicing of oncogenic proteins. An alternative approach to treating CRPC may be to target the turnover of these molecular drivers of CRPC. In this review, the mechanisms by which protein stability of several oncoproteins such as AR, ERG, GR, CYP17A1 and MYC, will be discussed, as well as how these findings could be translated into novel therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Wang
- Eugene McDermott Center for Human Growth and Development, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA; Department of Urology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
| | - Dede N Ekoue
- Department of Urology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Ganesh V Raj
- Department of Urology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA; Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA; Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA; Green Center for Reproductive Biology Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Ralf Kittler
- Eugene McDermott Center for Human Growth and Development, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA; Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA; Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA; Green Center for Reproductive Biology Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
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Current progress and questions in germline genetics of prostate cancer. Asian J Urol 2018; 6:3-9. [PMID: 30775244 PMCID: PMC6363602 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajur.2018.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2018] [Accepted: 09/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Dramatic progress has been made in the area of germline genetics of prostate cancer (PCa) in the past decade. Both common and rare genetic variants with effects on risk ranging from barely detectable to outright practice-changing have been identified. For men with high risk PCa, the application of genetic testing for inherited pathogenic mutations is becoming standard of care. A major question exists about which additional populations of men to test, as men at all risk levels can potentially benefit by knowing their unique genetic profile of germline susceptibility variants. This article will provide a brief overview of some current issues in understanding inherited susceptibility for PCa.
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Xu Z, Wang Y, Xiao ZG, Zou C, Zhang X, Wang Z, Wu D, Yu S, Chan FL. Nuclear receptor ERRα and transcription factor ERG form a reciprocal loop in the regulation of TMPRSS2:ERG fusion gene in prostate cancer. Oncogene 2018; 37:6259-6274. [PMID: 30042415 PMCID: PMC6265259 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-018-0409-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2017] [Revised: 05/17/2018] [Accepted: 06/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The TMPRSS2:ERG (T:E) fusion gene is generally believed to be mainly regulated by the activated androgen receptor (AR) signaling in androgen-dependent prostate cancer. However, its persistent expression in castration-resistant and neuroendocrine prostate cancers implies that other transcription factors might also regulate its expression. Here, we showed that up-regulation of nuclear receptor estrogen-related receptor alpha (ERRα) was closely associated with the oncogenic transcription factor ERG expression in prostate cancer, and their increased coexpression patterns were closely associated with high Gleason scores and metastasis in patients. Both ERRα and ERG exhibited a positive expression correlation in a castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) xenograft model VCaP-CRPC. We showed that ERRα could directly transactivate T:E fusion gene in both AR-positive and -negative prostate cancer cells via both ERR-binding element- and AR-binding element-dependent manners. Ectopic T:E expression under ERRα regulation could promote both in vitro invasion and in vivo metastasis capacities of AR-negative prostatic cells. Intriguingly, ERG expressed by the T:E fusion could also transactivate the ERRα (ESRRA) gene. Hereby, ERRα and ERG can synergistically regulate each other and form a reciprocal regulatory loop to promote the advanced growth of prostate cancer. Inhibition of ERRα activity by ERRα inverse agonist could suppress T:E expression in prostate cancer cells, implicating that targeting ERRα could be a potential therapeutic strategy for treating the aggressive T:E-positive prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenyu Xu
- Department of Pharmacy, Yijishan Affiliated Hospital, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yuliang Wang
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zhan Gang Xiao
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Pharmacology, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Chang Zou
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Clinical Medical Research Center, Shenzhen People's Hospital, Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xian Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Yijishan Affiliated Hospital, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China
| | - Zhu Wang
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Dinglan Wu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Shan Yu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Franky Leung Chan
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
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ERG alterations and mTOR pathway activation in primary prostate carcinomas developing castration-resistance. Pathol Res Pract 2018; 214:1675-1680. [PMID: 30190183 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2018.08.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2018] [Revised: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 08/28/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION One of the most common sites of distant metastasization of prostate cancer is bone, but to date reliable biomarkers able to predict the risk and timing of bone metastasization are still lacking. PATIENTS AND METHODS Surgically resected paraffin embedded samples from 12 primary prostate cancers that developed metachronous bone metastasis at different time points were studied (six cases within 2 years, six cases after 5 years from surgery). A targeted next-generation DNA and RNA sequencing able to assess simultaneously mutations, copy number alterations and fusion events of multiple genes was used. Immunohistochemistry was used to assess mTOR pathway activation. RESULTS Rearrangements of ETS family genes, molecular alterations in PTEN and TP53 genes were detected in 10, 6 and 5 cancers, respectively. Nine samples showed TMPRSS2-ERG fusions, which were associated with increased ERG expression at immunohistochemistry. mTOR pathway activation was documented in 6 patients, with a clear trend of prevalence in late-metastatic patients (p = 0.08). CONCLUSIONS A simultaneous next-generation targeted DNA and RNA sequencing is applicable on routine formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues to assess the multigene molecular asset of individual prostate cancers. This approach, coupled with immunohistochemistry for ERG and mTOR pathway proteins, may help to better characterize prostate cancer molecular features with a potential impact on clinical decisions.
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McCrea EM, Lee DK, Sissung TM, Figg WD. Precision medicine applications in prostate cancer. Ther Adv Med Oncol 2018; 10:1758835918776920. [PMID: 29977347 PMCID: PMC6024288 DOI: 10.1177/1758835918776920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2018] [Revised: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Aided by developments in diagnostics and therapeutics, healthcare is increasingly moving toward precision medicine, in which treatment is customized to each individual. We discuss the relevance of precision medicine in prostate cancer, including gene targets, therapeutics and resistance mechanisms. We foresee precision medicine becoming an integral component of prostate cancer management to increase response to therapy and prolong survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edel M. McCrea
- Molecular Pharmacology Section, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Daniel K. Lee
- Medical Oncology Service, and the Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Tristan M. Sissung
- Clinical Pharmacology Program, Office of the Clinical Director, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - William D. Figg
- Clinical Pharmacology Program, Office of the Clinical Director, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville Pike, Bldg 10/Room 5A01, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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Antonopoulou E, Ladomery M. Targeting Splicing in Prostate Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19051287. [PMID: 29693622 PMCID: PMC5983716 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19051287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2018] [Revised: 04/18/2018] [Accepted: 04/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Over 95% of human genes are alternatively spliced, expressing splice isoforms that often exhibit antagonistic functions. We describe genes whose alternative splicing has been linked to prostate cancer; namely VEGFA, KLF6, BCL2L2, ERG, and AR. We discuss opportunities to develop novel therapies that target specific splice isoforms, or that target the machinery of splicing. Therapeutic approaches include the development of small molecule inhibitors of splice factor kinases, splice isoform specific siRNAs, and splice switching oligonucleotides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Effrosyni Antonopoulou
- Faculty of Health and Applied Sciences, University of the West of England, Coldharbour Lane, Bristol BS16 1QY, UK.
| | - Michael Ladomery
- Faculty of Health and Applied Sciences, University of the West of England, Coldharbour Lane, Bristol BS16 1QY, UK.
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TMPRSS2:ERG gene fusion variants induce TGF-β signaling and epithelial to mesenchymal transition in human prostate cancer cells. Oncotarget 2018; 8:25115-25130. [PMID: 28445989 PMCID: PMC5421914 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.15931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2016] [Accepted: 02/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
TMPRSS2:ERG (T/E) gene fusions are present in approximately 50% of all prostate cancer (PCa) cases. The expression of fusion mRNAs from distinct T/E variants is associated with clinicopathological parameters, while the underlying molecular processes remain unclear. We characterized the molecular mechanisms and functional implications caused by doxycycline (Dox)-inducible overexpression of the frequent T/E III and VI fusion variants in LNCaP cells. Induction of T/E expression resulted in increased cellular migratory and invasive potential, and reduced proliferation and accumulation in G1 phase. T/E overexpressing cells showed epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), as demonstrated by upregulation of TGF-β and WNT pathway genes, mesenchymal markers, and increased phosphorylation of the p38 MAPK. Augmented secretion of TGF-β1 and –β2, and T/E-mediated regulation of ALK1, a member of the TGF-β receptor family, was detected. ALK1 inhibition in T/E overexpressing cells blocked p38 phosphorylation and reduced the expression of the TGF-β target genes VIM, MMP1, CDH2, and SNAI2. We found a T/E variant VI-specific induction of miR-503 associated with reduced expression of SMAD7 and CDH1. Overexpression of miR-503 led to increased levels of VIM and MMP1. Our findings indicate that TGF-β signaling is a major determinant of EMT in T/E overexpressing LNCaP cells. We provide evidence that T/E VI-specific transcriptional modulation by miR-503 accounts for differences in the activation of EMT pathway genes, promoting the aggressive phenotype of tumors expressing T/E variant VI. We suggest that ALK1-mediated TGF-β signaling is a novel oncogenic mechanism in T/E positive PCa.
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37
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BET bromodomain-mediated interaction between ERG and BRD4 promotes prostate cancer cell invasion. Oncotarget 2018; 7:38319-38332. [PMID: 27223260 PMCID: PMC5122392 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.9513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2016] [Accepted: 05/08/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) that becomes resistant to hormone castration and next-generation androgen receptor (AR)-targeted therapies, called castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), poses a significant clinical challenge. A better understanding of PCa progression and key molecular mechanisms could bring novel therapies to light. One potential therapeutic target is ERG, a transcription factor aberrantly up-regulated in PCa due to chromosomal rearrangements between androgen-regulated gene TMPRSS2 and ERG. Here we show that the most common PCa-associated truncated ERG T1–E4 (ERGΔ39), encoded by fusion between TMPRSS2 exon 1 and ERG exon 4, binds to bromodomain-1 (BD1) of bromodomain containing protein 4 (BRD4), a member of the bromodomain and extraterminal domain (BET) family. This interaction is partially abrogated by BET inhibitors JQ1 and iBET762. Meta-analysis of published ERG (T1–E4) and BRD4 chromatin immunoprecipitation-sequencing (ChIP-seq) data demonstrates overlap in a substantial portion of their binding sites. Gene expression profile analysis shows some ERG-BRD4 co-target genes are upregulated in CRPC compared to hormone-naïve counterparts. We provide further evidence that ERG-mediated invasion of PCa cells was significantly enhanced by an acetylation-mimicking mutation in ERG that augments the ERG-BRD4 interaction. Our findings reveal that PCa-associated ERG can interact and co-occupy with BRD4 in the genome, and suggest this druggable interaction is critical for ERG-mediated cell invasion and PCa progression.
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38
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Zoni E, Karkampouna S, Thalmann GN, Kruithof-de Julio M, Spahn M. Emerging aspects of microRNA interaction with TMPRSS2-ERG and endocrine therapy. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 462:9-16. [PMID: 28189568 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2016] [Revised: 12/22/2016] [Accepted: 02/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most common malignancy detected in males and the second most common cause of cancer death in western countries. The development of the prostate gland, is finely regulated by androgens which modulate also its growth and function. Importantly, androgens exert a major role in PCa formation and progression and one of the hypothesized mechanism proposed has been linked to the chromosomal rearrangement of the androgen regulated gene TMPRSS2 with ERG. Androgens have been therefore used as main target for therapies in the past. However, despite the development of endocrine therapies (e.g. androgen ablation), when PCa progress, tumors become resistant to this therapeutic castration and patients develop incurable metastases. A strategy to better understand how patients respond to therapy, in order to achieve a better patient stratification, consists in monitoring the levels of small noncoding RNAs (microRNAs). microRNAs are a class of small molecules that regulate protein abundance and their application as biomarkers to monitor disease progression has been intensely studied in the last years. In this review, we highlight the interactions between microRNAs and endocrine-related aspects of PCa in tissues. We focus on the modulation of TMPRSS2-ERG and Glucocorticoid Receptor (GR) by microRNAs and detail the influence of steroidal hormonal therapies on microRNAs expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugenio Zoni
- Urology Research Laboratory, Department of Urology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland; Department of Clinical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Sofia Karkampouna
- Urology Research Laboratory, Department of Urology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland; Department of Clinical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - George N Thalmann
- Urology Research Laboratory, Department of Urology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland; Department of Clinical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland; Department of Urology, Bern University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Marianna Kruithof-de Julio
- Urology Research Laboratory, Department of Urology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland; Department of Clinical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland; Urology Research Laboratory, Department of Urology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Martin Spahn
- Urology Research Laboratory, Department of Urology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland; Department of Urology, Bern University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland.
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Kedage V, Selvaraj N, Nicholas TR, Budka JA, Plotnik JP, Jerde TJ, Hollenhorst PC. An Interaction with Ewing's Sarcoma Breakpoint Protein EWS Defines a Specific Oncogenic Mechanism of ETS Factors Rearranged in Prostate Cancer. Cell Rep 2017; 17:1289-1301. [PMID: 27783944 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2016.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2016] [Revised: 09/15/2016] [Accepted: 09/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
More than 50% of prostate tumors have a chromosomal rearrangement resulting in aberrant expression of an oncogenic ETS family transcription factor. However, mechanisms that differentiate the function of oncogenic ETS factors expressed in prostate tumors from non-oncogenic ETS factors expressed in normal prostate are unknown. Here, we find that four oncogenic ETS (ERG, ETV1, ETV4, and ETV5), and no other ETS, interact with the Ewing's sarcoma breakpoint protein, EWS. This EWS interaction was necessary and sufficient for oncogenic ETS functions including gene activation, cell migration, clonogenic survival, and transformation. Significantly, the EWS interacting region of ERG has no homology with that of ETV1, ETV4, and ETV5. Therefore, this finding may explain how divergent ETS factors have a common oncogenic function. Strikingly, EWS is fused to various ETS factors by the chromosome translocations that cause Ewing's sarcoma. Therefore, these findings link oncogenic ETS function in both prostate cancer and Ewing's sarcoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivekananda Kedage
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | | | - Taylor R Nicholas
- Department of Biology, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - Justin A Budka
- Medical Sciences, Indiana University School of Medicine, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - Joshua P Plotnik
- Department of Biology, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - Travis J Jerde
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Peter C Hollenhorst
- Medical Sciences, Indiana University School of Medicine, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA.
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Holly JMP, Broadhurst J, Mansor R, Bahl A, Perks CM. Hyperglycemia Promotes TMPRSS2-ERG Gene Fusion in Prostate Cancer Cells via Upregulating Insulin-Like Growth Factor-Binding Protein-2. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2017; 8:305. [PMID: 29163372 PMCID: PMC5681733 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2017.00305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2017] [Accepted: 10/20/2017] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epidemiologic evidence shows that obesity is associated with a greater risk of aggressive prostate cancer (PCa) and PCa-specific mortality and this is observed mainly in men with the TMPRSS2-ERG gene fusion. Obesity is often associated with comorbid conditions such as type 2 diabetes and hyperglycemia: we investigated whether some of the exposures associated with disturbed metabolism can also affect the frequency of this gene fusion. METHODS Fusion was induced in LNCaP PCa cells in normal or high levels of glucose, with or without insulin-like growth factor binding protein-2 (IGFBP-2) silenced or the presence of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-I), insulin, or epidermal growth factor (EGF). RNA was extracted for analysis by nested PCR. Abundance of IGFBP-2, γH2AX, DNA-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit (DNAPKcs), and β-actin were analyzed by Western immunoblotting. RESULTS Our data suggest that hyperglycemia-induced IGFBP-2 increased the frequency of the gene fusion that was accompanied by decreased levels of DNAPKcs implying that they were mediated by alterations in the rate of repair of double-strand breaks. In contrast insulin, IGF-I and EGF all decreased gene fusion events. CONCLUSION These novel observations may represent a further mechanism by which obesity can exert an effect aggravating PCa progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeff M. P. Holly
- IGFs & Metabolic Endocrinology Group, School of Clinical Sciences, Southmead Hospital, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Jessica Broadhurst
- IGFs & Metabolic Endocrinology Group, School of Clinical Sciences, Southmead Hospital, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Rehanna Mansor
- IGFs & Metabolic Endocrinology Group, School of Clinical Sciences, Southmead Hospital, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Amit Bahl
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Bristol Haematology and Oncology Centre, University Hospitals Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Claire M. Perks
- IGFs & Metabolic Endocrinology Group, School of Clinical Sciences, Southmead Hospital, Bristol, United Kingdom
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Navaei AH, Walter BA, Moreno V, Pack SD, Pinto P, Merino MJ. Correlation between ERG Fusion Protein and Androgen Receptor Expression by Immunohistochemistry in Prostate, Possible Role in Diagnosis and Therapy. J Cancer 2017; 8:2604-2613. [PMID: 28900498 PMCID: PMC5595090 DOI: 10.7150/jca.16751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2016] [Accepted: 08/18/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Recent discovery of gene rearrangements have brought a new look to the molecular pathogenesis of cancer. Gene fusions occur in nearly 60% of prostate adenocarcinoma, being the TMPRSS2-ERG one of the most common. Evidence supports the role of ERG fusion in tumorigenesis, progression and invasion via effecting pathways such as WNT, MYC, uPA, PI3K/AKT/PTEN, RAS/RAF/MAPF, NKX3.1, GST-pi and androgen receptor (AR) mediated signaling. Most of the ERG fusions involve 5'-partners androgen responsive. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate AR and ERG fusion protein expression on prostate tissue to find clinicopathological applications and possible role in therapy. Methods: One hundred three samples, including prostate core biopsies and radical prostatectomy specimens, were evaluated for ERG and AR expression by immunohistochemistry (IHC). ERG rearrangement was done by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) on 11 randomly selected cases and correlated with IHC results. Results: From the total of 103 samples, eight (8/103) were benign, fourteen (14/103) had atypical glands, two (2/103) had prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PIN), and seventy nine (79/103) showed prostate adenocarcinoma. Forty four (44/79) tumor cases were Gleason score (GS) 6-7 (lower GS), and thirty five (35/79) were GS of 8-10 (higher GS). ERG immunoreaction was observed in 27.8% (22/79) of the tumor cases, showing higher expression in those with lower GS (68.2%, 15/22) compared to higher GS (31.8%, 7/22). Neither benign glands nor PIN stained with ERG. AR expression was observed in 75% of benign samples, 78.5% of atypical glands, 100% of PIN, and in 87.3% of tumor cases with no significant difference based on GS. Co-expression of ERG and AR was evaluated on all the tumor samples. ERG+/AR+ was seen in 77.3% (17/22) of the ERG+ tumor cases, with higher frequency in lower GS (64.7%, 11/17) compared to those with higher GS (35.3%, 6/17). All but five corresponding ERG+ tumor samples were negative for AR. Only 5 samples were ERG-/AR- corresponding to adenocarcinoma GS of 6. Presence or absence of ERG rearrangement was confirmed by FISH and correlated with IHC results. Conclusions: Characterization of ERG status by IHC in prostate tissue has an excellent correlation with FISH. It may also assist in diagnosis since none of the benign glands stained with ERG. Co-expression of ERG+/AR+ in prostate tumor by IHC may suggest gene fusion between ERG and a 5'-partner driven by androgen signaling such as TMPRSS2, which it could represent an important ancillary test for clinical management and development of new therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Vanessa Moreno
- Translational Surgical Pathology, Laboratory of Pathology
| | | | - Peter Pinto
- Urologic Oncology Branch, CCR, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Maria J Merino
- Translational Surgical Pathology, Laboratory of Pathology
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Aldaoud N, Abdo N, Al Bashir S, Alqudah M, Marji N, Alzou'bi H, Alazab R, Trpkov K. Prostate cancer in Jordanian-Arab population: ERG status and relationship with clinicopathologic characteristics. Virchows Arch 2017; 471:753-759. [PMID: 28550496 DOI: 10.1007/s00428-017-2160-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2017] [Revised: 05/17/2017] [Accepted: 05/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
TMPRSS2/ERG fusion was found to be the most common genetic event in prostate adenocarcinoma. There is a strong correlation between the fusion and ERG-positive immunostaining. Many studies showed racial variation in ERG expression in prostate cancer patients. There is no data however on the rate of ERG-positive cancer in Jordanian or Arab population. We evaluated the frequency and the significance of ERG fusion in Jordanian-Arab population using immunohistochemistry for ERG. The cohort included 193 prostate cancer specimens: 109 needle core biopsies, 45 radical prostatectomies, 37 transurethral resections of prostate, and 2 enucleation specimens. We found ERG reactivity in 64 (33.2%) of evaluated cases. The observed ERG frequency in the Jordanian-Arab population is lower than the one documented in North America, but it is higher than in Asian patient cohorts. The ERG positivity was significantly associated with lower baseline prostate-specific antigen but was unrelated to patient age, Gleason Score, or the novel Gleason Grade Groups. In the 45 prostatectomy cases, ERG did not correlate with the pathologic stage, margin, nodal status, and the biochemical recurrence, and it did not appear to represent an important prognosticator.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najla Aldaoud
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan.
- Department of Pathology King Abdullah University hospital, Jordan University of Science and Technology, P.O. box (3030), Irbid, 22110, Jordan.
| | - Nour Abdo
- Department of Public Health, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Samir Al Bashir
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Mohammad Alqudah
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Noor Marji
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Hiba Alzou'bi
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
- Department of Pathology, Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Rami Alazab
- Department of Urology, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Kiril Trpkov
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
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Kumar NB, Pow-Sang JM, Spiess PE, Park JY, Chornokur G, Leone AR, Phelan CM. Chemoprevention in African American Men With Prostate Cancer. Cancer Control 2017; 23:415-423. [PMID: 27842331 DOI: 10.1177/107327481602300413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recommendations for cancer screening are uncertain for the early detection or prevention of prostate cancer in African American men. Thus, chemoprevention strategies are needed to specifically target African American men. METHODS The evidence was examined on the biological etiology of disparities in African Americans related to prostate cancer. Possible chemopreventive agents and biomarkers critical to prostate cancer in African American men were also studied. RESULTS High-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia may be more prevalent in African American men, even after controlling for age, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level, abnormal results on digital rectal examination, and prostate volume. Prostate cancer in African American men can lead to the overexpression of signaling receptors that may mediate increased proliferation, angiogenesis, and decreased apoptosis. Use of chemopreventive agents may be useful for select populations of men. CONCLUSIONS Green tea catechins are able to target multiple pathways to address the underlying biology of prostate carcinogenesis in African American men, so they may be ideal as a chemoprevention agent in these men diagnosed with high-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nagi B Kumar
- Department of Epidemiology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA.
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Koo KM, Wee EJ, Trau M. High-speed biosensing strategy for non-invasive profiling of multiple cancer fusion genes in urine. Biosens Bioelectron 2017; 89:715-720. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2016.11.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2016] [Revised: 11/03/2016] [Accepted: 11/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Archer LK, Frame FM, Maitland NJ. Stem cells and the role of ETS transcription factors in the differentiation hierarchy of normal and malignant prostate epithelium. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2017; 166:68-83. [PMID: 27185499 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2016.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2016] [Revised: 04/25/2016] [Accepted: 05/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer of men in the UK and accounts for a quarter of all new cases. Although treatment of localised cancer can be successful, there is no cure for patients presenting with invasive prostate cancer and there are less treatment options. They are generally treated with androgen-ablation therapies but eventually the tumours become hormone resistant and patients develop castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) for which there are no further successful or curative treatments. This highlights the need for new treatment strategies. In order to prevent prostate cancer recurrence and treatment resistance, all the cell populations in a heterogeneous prostate tumour must be targeted, including the rare cancer stem cell (CSC) population. The ETS transcription factor family members are now recognised as a common feature in multiple cancers including prostate cancer; with aberrant expression, loss of tumour suppressor function, inactivating mutations and the formation of fusion genes observed. Most notably, the TMPRSS2-ERG gene fusion is present in approximately 50% of prostate cancers and in prostate CSCs. However, the role of other ETS transcription factors in prostate cancer is less well understood. This review will describe the prostate epithelial cell hierarchy and discuss the evidence behind prostate CSCs and their inherent resistance to conventional cancer therapies. The known and proposed roles of the ETS family of transcription factors in prostate epithelial cell differentiation and regulation of the CSC phenotype will be discussed, as well as how they might be targeted for therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leanne K Archer
- Cancer Research Unit, Department of Biology, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, United Kingdom
| | - Fiona M Frame
- Cancer Research Unit, Department of Biology, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, United Kingdom
| | - Norman J Maitland
- Cancer Research Unit, Department of Biology, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, United Kingdom.
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Todorova K, Metodiev MV, Metodieva G, Mincheff M, Fernández N, Hayrabedyan S. Micro-RNA-204 Participates in TMPRSS2/ERG Regulation and Androgen Receptor Reprogramming in Prostate Cancer. Discov Oncol 2017; 8:28-48. [PMID: 28050800 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-016-0279-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2016] [Accepted: 12/20/2016] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer progression is driven by genome instability incurred rearrangements such as transmembrane protease, serine 2 (TMPRSS2)/v-ets erythroblastosis virus E26 oncogene (ERG) that could possibly turn some of the tumor suppressor micro-RNAs into pro-oncogenic ones. Previously, we found dualistic miR-204 effects, acting either as a tumor suppressor or as an oncomiR in ERG fusion-dependent manner. Here, we provided further evidence for an important role of miR-204 for TMPRSS2/ERG and androgen receptor (AR) signaling modulation and fine tuning that prevents TMPRSS2/ERG overexpression in prostate cancer. Based on proximity-based ligation assay, we designed a novel method for detection of TMPRSS2/ERG protein products. We found that miR-204 is TMPRSS2/ERG oncofusion negative regulator, and this was mediated by DNA methylation of TMPRSS2 promoter. Transcriptional factors runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) and ETS proto-oncogene 1 (ETS1) were positive regulators of TMPRSS2/ERG expression and promoter hypo-methylation. Clustering of patients' sera for fusion protein, transcript expression, and wild-type ERG transcript isoforms, demonstrated not all patients harboring fusion transcripts had fusion protein products, and only few fusion positive ones exhibited increased wild-type ERG transcripts. miR-204 upregulated AR through direct promoter hypo-methylation, potentiated by the presence of ERG fusion and RUNX2 and ETS1. Proteomics studies provided evidence that miR-204 has dualistic role in AR cancer-related reprogramming, promoting prostate cancer-related androgen-responsive genes and AR target genes, as well as AR co-regulatory molecules. miR-204 methylation regulation was supported by changes in molecules responsible for chromatin remodeling, DNA methylation, and its regulation. In summary, miR-204 is a mild regulator of the AR function during the phase of preserved AR sensitivity as the latter one is required for ERG-fusion translocation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krassimira Todorova
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction "Acad. Kiril Bratanov", Laboratory of Reproductive OMICs Technologies, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 73 Tsarigradsko shosse blvd, 1113, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | | | | | - Milcho Mincheff
- Cellular and Gene Therapy Ward, National Specialized Hematology Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Nelson Fernández
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Essex, Colchester, UK
| | - Soren Hayrabedyan
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction "Acad. Kiril Bratanov", Laboratory of Reproductive OMICs Technologies, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 73 Tsarigradsko shosse blvd, 1113, Sofia, Bulgaria.
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47
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Yang Z, Peng YC, Gopalan A, Gao D, Chen Y, Joyner AL. Stromal hedgehog signaling maintains smooth muscle and hampers micro-invasive prostate cancer. Dis Model Mech 2017; 10:39-52. [PMID: 27935821 PMCID: PMC5278527 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.027417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2016] [Accepted: 11/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
It is widely appreciated that reactive stroma or carcinoma-associated fibroblasts can influence epithelial tumor progression. In prostate cancer (PCa), the second most common male malignancy worldwide, the amount of reactive stroma is variable and has predictive value for tumor recurrence. By analyzing human PCa protein and RNA expression databases, we found smooth muscle cells (SMCs) are decreased in advanced tumors, whereas fibroblasts are maintained. In three mouse models of PCa, PB-MYC, ERG/PTEN and TRAMP, we found the composition of the stroma is distinct. SMCs are greatly depleted in advanced PB-MYC tumors and locally reduced in ERG/PTEN prostates, whereas in TRAMP tumors the SMC layers are increased. In addition, interductal fibroblast-like cells expand in PB-MYC and ERG/PTEN tumors, whereas in TRAMP PCa they expand little and stromal cells invade into intraductal adenomas. Fate mapping of SMCs showed that in PB-MYC tumors the cells are depleted, whereas they expand in TRAMP tumors and interestingly contribute to the stromal cells in intraductal adenomas. Hedgehog (HH) ligands secreted by epithelial cells are known to regulate prostate mesenchyme expansion differentially during development and regeneration. Any possible role of HH signaling in stromal cells during PCa progression is poorly understood. We found that HH signaling is high in SMCs and fibroblasts near tumor cells in all models, and epithelial Shh expression is decreased whereas Ihh and Dhh are increased. In human primary PCa, expression of IHH is the highest of the three HH genes, and elevated HH signaling correlates with high stromal gene expression. Moreover, increasing HH signaling in the stroma of PB-MYC PCa resulted in more intact SMC layers and decreased tumor progression (micro-invasive carcinoma). Thus, we propose HH signaling restrains tumor progression by maintaining the smooth muscle and preventing invasion by tumor cells. Our studies highlight the importance of understanding how HH signaling and stromal composition impact on PCa to optimize drug treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaohui Yang
- Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology Program, Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Developmental Biology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Yu-Ching Peng
- Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology Program, Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Developmental Biology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Anuradha Gopalan
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Dong Gao
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Yu Chen
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Alexandra L Joyner
- Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology Program, Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Developmental Biology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, New York, NY 10065, USA
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48
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Luedeke M, Rinckleb AE, FitzGerald LM, Geybels MS, Schleutker J, Eeles RA, Teixeira MR, Cannon-Albright L, Ostrander EA, Weikert S, Herkommer K, Wahlfors T, Visakorpi T, Leinonen KA, Tammela TL, Cooper CS, Kote-Jarai Z, Edwards S, Goh CL, McCarthy F, Parker C, Flohr P, Paulo P, Jerónimo C, Henrique R, Krause H, Wach S, Lieb V, Rau TT, Vogel W, Kuefer R, Hofer MD, Perner S, Rubin MA, Agarwal AM, Easton DF, Al Olama AA, Benlloch S, Hoegel J, Stanford JL, Maier C. Prostate cancer risk regions at 8q24 and 17q24 are differentially associated with somatic TMPRSS2:ERG fusion status. Hum Mol Genet 2016; 25:5490-5499. [PMID: 27798103 PMCID: PMC5418832 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddw349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2016] [Revised: 09/23/2016] [Accepted: 10/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Molecular and epidemiological differences have been described between TMPRSS2:ERG fusion-positive and fusion-negative prostate cancer (PrCa). Assuming two molecularly distinct subtypes, we have examined 27 common PrCa risk variants, previously identified in genome-wide association studies, for subtype specific associations in a total of 1221 TMPRSS2:ERG phenotyped PrCa cases. In meta-analyses of a discovery set of 552 cases with TMPRSS2:ERG data and 7650 unaffected men from five centers we have found support for the hypothesis that several common risk variants are associated with one particular subtype rather than with PrCa in general. Risk variants were analyzed in case-case comparisons (296 TMPRSS2:ERG fusion-positive versus 256 fusion-negative cases) and an independent set of 669 cases with TMPRSS2:ERG data was established to replicate the top five candidates. Significant differences (P < 0.00185) between the two subtypes were observed for rs16901979 (8q24) and rs1859962 (17q24), which were enriched in TMPRSS2:ERG fusion-negative (OR = 0.53, P = 0.0007) and TMPRSS2:ERG fusion-positive PrCa (OR = 1.30, P = 0.0016), respectively. Expression quantitative trait locus analysis was performed to investigate mechanistic links between risk variants, fusion status and target gene mRNA levels. For rs1859962 at 17q24, genotype dependent expression was observed for the candidate target gene SOX9 in TMPRSS2:ERG fusion-positive PrCa, which was not evident in TMPRSS2:ERG negative tumors. The present study established evidence for the first two common PrCa risk variants differentially associated with TMPRSS2:ERG fusion status. TMPRSS2:ERG phenotyping of larger studies is required to determine comprehensive sets of variants with subtype-specific roles in PrCa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Luedeke
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
- Department of Urology, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Antje E. Rinckleb
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
- Department of Urology, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Liesel M. FitzGerald
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Division of Public Health Science, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Cancer, Genetics and Immunology, Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Milan S. Geybels
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Division of Public Health Science, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Johanna Schleutker
- Institute of Biomedical Technology/BioMediTech, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Genetics, University of Turku, and Tyks Microbiology and Genetics, Department of Medical Genetics, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Rosalind A. Eeles
- The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
- Royal Marsden National Health Service Foundation Trust, London and Sutton, UK
| | - Manuel R. Teixeira
- Department of Genetics, Portuguese Oncology Institute, Porto, Portugal
- Abel Salazar Biomedical Sciences Institute, Porto University, Porto, Portugal
| | - Lisa Cannon-Albright
- Division of Genetic Epidemiology, Department of Medicine, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- George E. Wahlen Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | | | - Steffen Weikert
- Department of Urology, Vivantes Humboldt Hospital, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Urology, University Hospital Charité, Berlin, Germany
| | - Kathleen Herkommer
- Department of Urology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Tiina Wahlfors
- Institute of Biomedical Technology/BioMediTech, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland
| | - Tapio Visakorpi
- Fimlab Laboratories, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | | | - Teuvo L.J. Tammela
- Department of Urology, Tampere University Hospital and School of Medicine, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland
| | - Colin S. Cooper
- The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
- Department of Biological Science, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | | | | | - Chee L. Goh
- The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | | | - Chris Parker
- Royal Marsden National Health Service Foundation Trust, London and Sutton, UK
| | - Penny Flohr
- The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Paula Paulo
- Department of Genetics, Portuguese Oncology Institute, Porto, Portugal
- Abel Salazar Biomedical Sciences Institute, Porto University, Porto, Portugal
| | - Carmen Jerónimo
- Abel Salazar Biomedical Sciences Institute, Porto University, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute, Porto, Portugal
| | - Rui Henrique
- Abel Salazar Biomedical Sciences Institute, Porto University, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute, Porto, Portugal
| | - Hans Krause
- Department of Urology, University Hospital Charité, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sven Wach
- Department of Urology, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Verena Lieb
- Department of Urology, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Tilman T. Rau
- Institute of Pathology, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Institute of Pathology, University Bern, Bern Switzerland
| | - Walther Vogel
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Rainer Kuefer
- Department of Urology, Klinik am Eichert, Göppingen, Germany
| | - Matthias D. Hofer
- Department of Urology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Sven Perner
- Pathology of the University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Luebeck and the Research Center Borstel, Leibniz Center for Medicine and Biosciences, Luebeck and Borstel, Germany
| | - Mark A. Rubin
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Doug F. Easton
- Centre for Cancer Genetics Epidemiology, Department of Oncology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Ali Amin Al Olama
- Centre for Cancer Genetics Epidemiology, Department of Oncology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Sara Benlloch
- Centre for Cancer Genetics Epidemiology, Department of Oncology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Josef Hoegel
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Janet L. Stanford
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Division of Public Health Science, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Christiane Maier
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
- Department of Urology, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
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49
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Segura Moreno YY, Serrano López ML. Estandarización del protocolo para la detección de las fusiones TMPRSS2:ERG y de la expresión de los genes EZH2, SPINK-1 y NKX3.1 en cáncer de próstata (CaP). ACTA BIOLÓGICA COLOMBIANA 2016. [DOI: 10.15446/abc.v21n3.50477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
En la actualidad no existe una herramienta que permita diferenciar pacientes con cáncer de próstata (CaP) de mal pronóstico de aquellos con enfermedad indolente que sólo requieren un seguimiento controlado de la enfermedad. Debido a la coexistencia de diferentes focos premalignos y malignos en el CaP, el entendimiento sobre el proceso de carcinogénesis requiere de un mejor conocimiento. Actualmente, la heterogeneidad morfológica en CaP es evaluada con la puntuación de Gleason, la cual está fuertemente relacionada con el pronóstico de la enfermedad, sin embargo, esto es insuficiente por lo que se trabaja actualmente en identificación de alteraciones moleculares que permitan identificar subtipos que puedan establecer de manera más precisa el pronóstico del paciente. Este estudio preliminar buscó la estandarización del método de cuantificación en muestras prostáticas de FFPE de la expresión de los transcritos de posibles biomarcadores, como los oncogenes SPINK-1 y EZH2, el supresor tumoral NKX3.1, en conjunto con la determinación de la presencia/ausencia del gen de fusión TMPRSS2:ERG, ya que estos transcritos se encuentran involucrados en aparentes eventos excluyentes de la evolución natural del CaP, que apoyan la posibilidad de una clasificación molecular para esta enfermedad.
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50
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Zhang L, Shao L, Creighton CJ, Zhang Y, Xin L, Ittmann M, Wang J. Function of phosphorylation of NF-kB p65 ser536 in prostate cancer oncogenesis. Oncotarget 2016; 6:6281-94. [PMID: 25749044 PMCID: PMC4467437 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.3366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2014] [Accepted: 01/12/2015] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Majority of prostate cancer (PCa) patients carry TMPRSS2/ERG (T/E) fusion genes and there has been tremendous interest in understanding how the T/E fusion may promote progression of PCa. We showed that T/E fusion can activate NF-kB pathway by increasing phosphorylation of NF-kB p65 Ser536 (p536), but the function of p536 has never been studied in PCa. We report here that active p536 can significantly increase cell motility and transform PNT1a cells (an immortalized normal cell line), suggesting p536 plays a critical role in promoting PCa tumorigenesis. We have discovered a set of p536 regulated genes, among which we validated the regulation of CCL2 by p536. Based on all evidence, we favor that T/E fusion, NF-kB p536 and CCL2 form a signaling chain. Finally, PNT1a cells (not tumorigenic) can form tumors in SCID mice when overexpressing of either wild type or active p65 in the presence of activated AKT, demonstrating synergistic activities of NF-kB and AKT signals in promoting PCa tumorigenesis. These findings indicate that combination therapies targeting T/E fusion, NF-kB, CCL2 and/or AKT pathways may have efficacy in T/E fusion gene expressing PCa. If successful, such targeted therapy will benefit more than half of PCa patients who carry T/E fusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine and Michael E. DeBakey Deptartment of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Longjiang Shao
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine and Michael E. DeBakey Deptartment of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Chad J Creighton
- Duncan Cancer Center Division of Biostatistics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA.,Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Yiqun Zhang
- Duncan Cancer Center Division of Biostatistics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Li Xin
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Michael Ittmann
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine and Michael E. DeBakey Deptartment of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jianghua Wang
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine and Michael E. DeBakey Deptartment of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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