1
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Finlay JB, Ireland AS, Hawgood SB, Reyes T, Ko T, Olsen RR, Abi Hachem R, Jang DW, Bell D, Chan JM, Goldstein BJ, Oliver TG. Olfactory neuroblastoma mimics molecular heterogeneity and lineage trajectories of small-cell lung cancer. Cancer Cell 2024:S1535-6108(24)00164-8. [PMID: 38788720 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2024.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
The olfactory epithelium undergoes neuronal regeneration from basal stem cells and is susceptible to olfactory neuroblastoma (ONB), a rare tumor of unclear origins. Employing alterations in Rb1/Trp53/Myc (RPM), we establish a genetically engineered mouse model of high-grade metastatic ONB exhibiting a NEUROD1+ immature neuronal phenotype. We demonstrate that globose basal cells (GBCs) are a permissive cell of origin for ONB and that ONBs exhibit cell fate heterogeneity that mimics normal GBC developmental trajectories. ASCL1 loss in RPM ONB leads to emergence of non-neuronal histopathologies, including a POU2F3+ microvillar-like state. Similar to small-cell lung cancer (SCLC), mouse and human ONBs exhibit mutually exclusive NEUROD1 and POU2F3-like states, an immune-cold tumor microenvironment, intratumoral cell fate heterogeneity comprising neuronal and non-neuronal lineages, and cell fate plasticity-evidenced by barcode-based lineage tracing and single-cell transcriptomics. Collectively, our findings highlight conserved similarities between ONB and neuroendocrine tumors with significant implications for ONB classification and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- John B Finlay
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences, Duke University, Durham 27710, NC, USA
| | - Abbie S Ireland
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University, Durham 27710, NC, USA
| | - Sarah B Hawgood
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University, Durham 27710, NC, USA
| | - Tony Reyes
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University, Durham 27710, NC, USA; Department of Oncological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City 84112, UT, USA
| | - Tiffany Ko
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences, Duke University, Durham 27710, NC, USA
| | - Rachelle R Olsen
- Department of Oncological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City 84112, UT, USA
| | - Ralph Abi Hachem
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences, Duke University, Durham 27710, NC, USA
| | - David W Jang
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences, Duke University, Durham 27710, NC, USA
| | - Diana Bell
- Division of Anatomic Pathology, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte 91010, CA, USA
| | - Joseph M Chan
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial-Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City 10065, NY, USA
| | - Bradley J Goldstein
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences, Duke University, Durham 27710, NC, USA; Department of Neurobiology, Duke University, Durham 27710, NC, USA.
| | - Trudy G Oliver
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University, Durham 27710, NC, USA; Department of Oncological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City 84112, UT, USA.
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2
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Wang Z, Liu C, Zheng S, Yao Y, Wang S, Wang X, Yin E, Zeng Q, Zhang C, Zhang G, Tang W, Zheng B, Xue L, Wang Z, Feng X, Wang Y, Ying J, Xue Q, Sun N, He J. Molecular subtypes of neuroendocrine carcinomas: A cross-tissue classification framework based on five transcriptional regulators. Cancer Cell 2024:S1535-6108(24)00163-6. [PMID: 38788718 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2024.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Neuroendocrine carcinomas (NECs) are extremely lethal malignancies that can arise at almost any anatomic site. Characterization of NECs is hindered by their rarity and significant inter- and intra-tissue heterogeneity. Herein, through an integrative analysis of over 1,000 NECs originating from 31 various tissues, we reveal their tissue-independent convergence and further unveil molecular divergence driven by distinct transcriptional regulators. Pan-tissue NECs are therefore categorized into five intrinsic subtypes defined by ASCL1, NEUROD1, HNF4A, POU2F3, and YAP1. A comprehensive portrait of these subtypes is depicted, highlighting subtype-specific transcriptional programs, genomic alterations, evolution trajectories, therapeutic vulnerabilities, and clinicopathological presentations. Notably, the newly discovered HNF4A-dominated subtype-H exhibits a gastrointestinal-like signature, wild-type RB1, unique neuroendocrine differentiation, poor chemotherapeutic response, and prevalent large-cell morphology. The proposal of uniform classification paradigm illuminates transcriptional basis of NEC heterogeneity and bridges the gap across different lineages and cytomorphological variants, in which context-dependent prevalence of subtypes underlies their phenotypic disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhanyu Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, P.R. China; State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, P.R. China
| | - Chengming Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, P.R. China; State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, P.R. China
| | - Sufei Zheng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, P.R. China; State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, P.R. China; Office for Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment Quality Control, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, P.R. China
| | - Yuxin Yao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, P.R. China; State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, P.R. China
| | - Sihui Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/ National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital & Shenzhen Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Shenzhen 518116, P.R. China
| | - Xinfeng Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, P.R. China; State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, P.R. China
| | - Enzhi Yin
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, P.R. China; State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, P.R. China
| | - Qingpeng Zeng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, P.R. China; State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, P.R. China
| | - Chaoqi Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, P.R. China; State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, P.R. China
| | - Guochao Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, P.R. China; State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, P.R. China
| | - Wei Tang
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, P.R. China
| | - Bo Zheng
- Department of Pathology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, P.R. China
| | - Liyan Xue
- Department of Pathology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, P.R. China
| | - Zhen Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoli Feng
- Department of Pathology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, P.R. China
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, P.R. China
| | - Jianming Ying
- Department of Pathology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, P.R. China
| | - Qi Xue
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, P.R. China
| | - Nan Sun
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, P.R. China; State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, P.R. China.
| | - Jie He
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, P.R. China; State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, P.R. China.
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3
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Iksen, Witayateeraporn W, Hardianti B, Pongrakhananon V. Comprehensive review of Bcl-2 family proteins in cancer apoptosis: Therapeutic strategies and promising updates of natural bioactive compounds and small molecules. Phytother Res 2024; 38:2249-2275. [PMID: 38415799 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.8157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Cancer has a considerably higher fatality rate than other diseases globally and is one of the most lethal and profoundly disruptive ailments. The increasing incidence of cancer among humans is one of the greatest challenges in the field of healthcare. A significant factor in the initiation and progression of tumorigenesis is the dysregulation of physiological processes governing cell death, which results in the survival of cancerous cells. B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) family members play important roles in several cancer-related processes. Drug research and development have identified various promising natural compounds that demonstrate potent anticancer effects by specifically targeting Bcl-2 family proteins and their associated signaling pathways. This comprehensive review highlights the substantial roles of Bcl-2 family proteins in regulating apoptosis, including the intricate signaling pathways governing the activity of these proteins, the impact of reactive oxygen species, and the crucial involvement of proteasome degradation and the stress response. Furthermore, this review discusses advances in the exploration and potential therapeutic applications of natural compounds and small molecules targeting Bcl-2 family proteins and thus provides substantial scientific information and therapeutic strategies for cancer management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iksen
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department of Pharmacy, Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Kesehatan Senior Medan, Medan, Indonesia
| | - Wasita Witayateeraporn
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Besse Hardianti
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Almarisah Madani University, South Sulawesi, Indonesia
| | - Varisa Pongrakhananon
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Preclinical Toxicity and Efficacy Assessment of Medicines and Chemicals Research Unit, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
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4
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Hosoya K, Ozasa H. Aurora kinase B inhibition in small-cell lung cancer: BCL-2 as a potential therapeutic biomarker and combination target. Transl Lung Cancer Res 2024; 13:689-693. [PMID: 38601438 PMCID: PMC11002497 DOI: 10.21037/tlcr-23-754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Kazutaka Hosoya
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Ozasa
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
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5
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Khan S, Cao L, Wiegand J, Zhang P, Zajac-Kaye M, Kaye FJ, Zheng G, Zhou D. PROTAC-Mediated Dual Degradation of BCL-xL and BCL-2 Is a Highly Effective Therapeutic Strategy in Small-Cell Lung Cancer. Cells 2024; 13:528. [PMID: 38534371 PMCID: PMC10968744 DOI: 10.3390/cells13060528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BCL-xL and BCL-2 are validated therapeutic targets in small-cell lung cancer (SCLC). Targeting these proteins with navitoclax (formerly ABT263, a dual BCL-xL/2 inhibitor) induces dose-limiting thrombocytopenia through on-target BCL-xL inhibition in platelets. Therefore, platelet toxicity poses a barrier in advancing the clinical translation of navitoclax. We have developed a strategy to selectively target BCL-xL in tumors, while sparing platelets, by utilizing proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) that hijack the cellular ubiquitin proteasome system for target ubiquitination and subsequent degradation. In our previous study, the first-in-class BCL-xL PROTAC, called DT2216, was shown to have synergistic antitumor activities when combined with venetoclax (formerly ABT199, BCL-2-selective inhibitor) in a BCL-xL/2 co-dependent SCLC cell line, NCI-H146 (hereafter referred to as H146), in vitro and in a xenograft model. Guided by these findings, we evaluated our newly developed BCL-xL/2 dual degrader, called 753b, in three BCL-xL/2 co-dependent SCLC cell lines and the H146 xenograft models. 753b was found to degrade both BCL-xL and BCL-2 in these cell lines. Importantly, it was considerably more potent than DT2216, navitoclax, or DT2216 + venetoclax in reducing the viability of BCL-xL/2 co-dependent SCLC cell lines in cell culture. In vivo, 5 mg/kg weekly dosing of 753b was found to lead to significant tumor growth delay, similar to the DT2216 + venetoclax combination in H146 xenografts, by degrading both BCL-xL and BCL-2. Additionally, 753b administration at 5 mg/kg every four days induced tumor regressions. At this dosage, 753b was well tolerated in mice, without observable induction of severe thrombocytopenia as seen with navitoclax, and no evidence of significant changes in mouse body weights. These results suggest that the BCL-xL/2 dual degrader could be an effective and safe therapeutic for a subset of SCLC patients, warranting clinical trials in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sajid Khan
- Department of Biochemistry & Structural Biology, Long School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
- Mays Cancer Center, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Lin Cao
- Department of Biochemistry & Structural Biology, Long School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Janet Wiegand
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Peiyi Zhang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Maria Zajac-Kaye
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Frederic J. Kaye
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Guangrong Zheng
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Daohong Zhou
- Department of Biochemistry & Structural Biology, Long School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
- Mays Cancer Center, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
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6
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Khan S, Cao L, Wiegand J, Zhang P, Zajac-Kaye M, Kaye FJ, Zheng G, Zhou D. PROTAC-mediated dual degradation of BCL-xL and BCL-2 is a highly effective therapeutic strategy in small-cell lung cancer. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.27.582353. [PMID: 38464204 PMCID: PMC10925307 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.27.582353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
BCL-xL and BCL-2 are validated therapeutic targets in small-cell lung cancer (SCLC). Targeting these proteins with navitoclax (formerly ABT263, a dual BCL-xL/2 inhibitor) induces dose-limiting thrombocytopenia through on-target BCL-xL inhibition in platelets. Therefore, platelet toxicity poses a barrier in advancing the clinical translation of navitoclax. We have developed a strategy to selectively target BCL-xL in tumors, while sparing platelets, by utilizing proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) that hijack the cellular ubiquitin proteasome system for target ubiquitination and subsequent degradation. In our previous study, the first-in-class BCL-xL PROTAC, called DT2216, was shown to have synergistic antitumor activities when combined with venetoclax (formerly ABT199, BCL-2-selective inhibitor) in a BCL-xL/2 co-dependent SCLC cell line, NCI-H146 (hereafter referred to as H146), in vitro and in a xenograft model. Guided by these findings, we evaluated our newly developed BCL-xL/2 dual degrader, called 753b, in three BCL-xL/2 co-dependent SCLC cell lines and the H146 xenograft models. 753b was found to degrade both BCL-xL and BCL-2 in these cell lines. Importantly, it was considerably more potent than DT2216, navitoclax, or DT2216+venetoclax to reduce the viability of BCL-xL/2 co-dependent SCLC cell lines in cell culture. In vivo, 5 mg/kg weekly dosing of 753b leads to significant tumor growth delay similar to the DT2216+venetoclax combination in H146 xenografts by degrading both BCL-xL and BCL-2. Additionally, 753b administration at 5 mg/kg every four days induced tumor regressions. 753b at this dosage was well tolerated in mice without induction of severe thrombocytopenia as seen with navitoclax nor induced significant changes in mouse body weights. These results suggest that the BCL-xL/2 dual degrader could be an effective and safe therapeutic for a subset of SCLC patients warranting clinical trials in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sajid Khan
- Department of Biochemistry & Structural Biology, Long School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
- Mays Cancer Center, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Lin Cao
- Department of Biochemistry & Structural Biology, Long School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Janet Wiegand
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Peiyi Zhang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Maria Zajac-Kaye
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Frederic J. Kaye
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Guangrong Zheng
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Daohong Zhou
- Department of Biochemistry & Structural Biology, Long School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
- Mays Cancer Center, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
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7
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Guo H, Li W, Guo Y, Chen N, Cui J. Molecular classification of small cell lung cancer subtypes: Characteristics, prognostic factors, and clinical translation. Chin Med J (Engl) 2024; 137:130-139. [PMID: 37660289 PMCID: PMC10798698 DOI: 10.1097/cm9.0000000000002693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is a highly malignant tumor with a very poor prognosis; therefore, more effective treatments are urgently needed for patients afflicted with the disease. In recent years, emerging molecular classifications based on key transcription factors of SCLC have provided more information on the tumor pathophysiology, metastasis, immune microenvironment, and acquired therapeutic resistance and reflected the intertumoral heterogeneity of the various SCLC phenotypes. Additionally, advances in genomics and single-cell sequencing analysis have further revealed the high intratumoral heterogeneity and plasticity of the disease. Herein, we review and summarize these recent lines of evidence and discuss the possible pathogenesis of SCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Jiuwei Cui
- Cancer Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China
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8
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Gutiérrez M, Zamora I, Freeman MR, Encío IJ, Rotinen M. Actionable Driver Events in Small Cell Lung Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:105. [PMID: 38203275 PMCID: PMC10778712 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) stands out as the most aggressive form of lung cancer, characterized by an extremely high proliferation rate and a very poor prognosis, with a 5-year survival rate that falls below 7%. Approximately two-thirds of patients receive their diagnosis when the disease has already reached a metastatic or extensive stage, leaving chemotherapy as the remaining first-line treatment option. Other than the recent advances in immunotherapy, which have shown moderate results, SCLC patients cannot yet benefit from any approved targeted therapy, meaning that this cancer remains treated as a uniform entity, disregarding intra- or inter-tumoral heterogeneity. Continuous efforts and technological improvements have enabled the identification of new potential targets that could be used to implement novel therapeutic strategies. In this review, we provide an overview of the most recent approaches for SCLC treatment, providing an extensive compilation of the targeted therapies that are currently under clinical evaluation and inhibitor molecules with promising results in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirian Gutiérrez
- Department of Health Sciences, Public University of Navarre, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (M.G.); (I.Z.)
| | - Irene Zamora
- Department of Health Sciences, Public University of Navarre, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (M.G.); (I.Z.)
| | - Michael R. Freeman
- Departments of Urology and Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA;
- Department of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Ignacio J. Encío
- Department of Health Sciences, Public University of Navarre, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (M.G.); (I.Z.)
- IdiSNA, Navarre Institute for Health Research, 31006 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Mirja Rotinen
- Department of Health Sciences, Public University of Navarre, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (M.G.); (I.Z.)
- IdiSNA, Navarre Institute for Health Research, 31006 Pamplona, Spain
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9
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Canova S, Trevisan B, Abbate MI, Colonese F, Sala L, Baggi A, Bianchi SP, D'Agostino A, Cortinovis DL. Novel Therapeutic Options for Small Cell Lung Cancer. Curr Oncol Rep 2023; 25:1277-1294. [PMID: 37870696 PMCID: PMC10640463 DOI: 10.1007/s11912-023-01465-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The aim of this review is to focus on the recent advances in the molecular knowledge of small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and potential promising new treatment strategies, like targeting the DNA damage pathway, epigenetics, angiogenesis, and oncogenic drivers. RECENT FINDINGS In the last few years, the addition of immunotherapy to chemotherapy has led to significant improvements in clinical outcomes in this complex neoplasia. Nevertheless, the prognosis remains dismal. Recently, numerous genomic alterations have been identified, and they may be useful to classify SCLC into different molecular subtypes (SCLC-A, SCLC-I, SCLC-Y, SCLC-P). SCLC accounts for 10-20% of all lung cancers, most patients have an extensive disease at the diagnosis, and it is characterized by poor prognosis. Despite the progresses in the knowledge of the disease, efficacious targeted treatments are still lacking. In the near future, the molecular characterisation of SCLC will be fundamental to find more effective treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Canova
- SC Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo Dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Benedetta Trevisan
- SC Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo Dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
- Department of Medical-Surgical Specialties, University of Brescia, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, Brescia, Italy
| | - Maria Ida Abbate
- SC Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo Dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Francesca Colonese
- SC Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo Dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Luca Sala
- SC Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo Dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Alice Baggi
- SC Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo Dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
- Department of Medical-Surgical Specialties, University of Brescia, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, Brescia, Italy
| | - Sofia Paola Bianchi
- Radiation Oncology Department, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo Dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna D'Agostino
- SC Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo Dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Diego Luigi Cortinovis
- SC Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo Dei Tintori, Monza, Italy.
- Medicine and Surgery Department, University of Milano Bicocca, Milan, Italy.
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Xu J, Dong X, Huang DCS, Xu P, Zhao Q, Chen B. Current Advances and Future Strategies for BCL-2 Inhibitors: Potent Weapons against Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4957. [PMID: 37894324 PMCID: PMC10605442 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15204957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Targeting the intrinsic apoptotic pathway regulated by B-cell lymphoma-2 (BCL-2) antiapoptotic proteins can overcome the evasion of apoptosis in cancer cells. BCL-2 inhibitors have evolved into an important means of treating cancers by inducing tumor cell apoptosis. As the most extensively investigated BCL-2 inhibitor, venetoclax is highly selective for BCL-2 and can effectively inhibit tumor survival. Its emergence and development have significantly influenced the therapeutic landscape of hematological malignancies, especially in chronic lymphocytic leukemia and acute myeloid leukemia, in which it has been clearly incorporated into the recommended treatment regimens. In addition, the considerable efficacy of venetoclax in combination with other agents has been demonstrated in relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma and certain lymphomas. Although venetoclax plays a prominent antitumor role in preclinical experiments and clinical trials, large individual differences in treatment outcomes have been characterized in real-world patient populations, and reduced drug sensitivity will lead to disease recurrence or progression. The therapeutic efficacy may vary widely in patients with different molecular characteristics, and key genetic mutations potentially result in differential sensitivities to venetoclax. The identification and validation of more novel biomarkers are required to accurately predict the effectiveness of BCL-2 inhibition therapy. Furthermore, we summarize the recent research progress relating to the use of BCL-2 inhibitors in solid tumor treatment and demonstrate that a wealth of preclinical models have shown promising results through combination therapies. The applications of venetoclax in solid tumors warrant further clinical investigation to define its prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxuan Xu
- Department of Hematology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, China-Australia Institute of Translational Medicine, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China; (J.X.); (X.D.); (P.X.)
| | - Xiaoqing Dong
- Department of Hematology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, China-Australia Institute of Translational Medicine, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China; (J.X.); (X.D.); (P.X.)
| | - David C. S. Huang
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia;
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Peipei Xu
- Department of Hematology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, China-Australia Institute of Translational Medicine, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China; (J.X.); (X.D.); (P.X.)
| | - Quan Zhao
- Department of Hematology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, China-Australia Institute of Translational Medicine, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China; (J.X.); (X.D.); (P.X.)
| | - Bing Chen
- Department of Hematology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, China-Australia Institute of Translational Medicine, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China; (J.X.); (X.D.); (P.X.)
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11
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Egidi MJ, Krug S, Haybaeck J, Michl P, Griesmann H. Anti-angiogenic therapy using the multi-tyrosine kinase inhibitor Regorafenib enhances tumor progression in a transgenic mouse model of ß-cell carcinogenesis. Br J Cancer 2023; 129:1225-1237. [PMID: 37620408 PMCID: PMC10575939 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-023-02389-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PNETs) represent a distinct hypervascularized tumor entity, often diagnosed at metastatic stage. Therapeutic efficacy of anti-angiogenic multi-kinase inhibitors is frequently limited by primary or acquired resistance in vivo. This study aimed to characterize the molecular mode of action as well as resistance mechanisms to the anti-angiogenic multi-tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) Regorafenib in vitro and in vivo. METHODS In vitro, human and murine pancreatic neuroendocrine cell lines were comparatively treated with Regorafenib and other TKIs clinically used in PNETs. Effects on cell viability and proliferation were analyzed. In vivo, transgenic RIP1Tag2 mice were treated with Regorafenib at two different time periods during carcinogenesis and its impact on angiogenesis and tumor progression was evaluated. RESULTS Compared to the established TKI therapies with Sunitinib and Everolimus, Regorafenib showed the strongest effects on cell viability and proliferation in vitro, but was unable to induce apoptosis. Unexpectedly and in contrast to these in vitro findings, Regorafenib enhanced proliferation during early tumor development in RIP1Tag2 mice and had no significant effect in late tumor progression. In addition, invasiveness was increased at both time points. Mechanistically, we could identify an upregulation of the pro-survival protein Bcl-2, the induction of the COX2-PGE2-pathway as well as the infiltration of CSF1R positive immune cells into the tumors as potential resistance mechanisms following Regorafenib treatment. DISCUSSION Our data identify important tumor cell-autonomous and stroma-dependent mechanisms of resistance to antiangiogenic therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maren Juliane Egidi
- Clinic for Internal Medicine I, Martin-Luther University Halle/Wittenberg, Ernst-Grube-Straße 40, D 06120, Halle, Germany
| | - Sebastian Krug
- Clinic for Internal Medicine I, Martin-Luther University Halle/Wittenberg, Ernst-Grube-Straße 40, D 06120, Halle, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Johannes Haybaeck
- Department of Pathology, Neuropathology, and Molecular Pathology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
- Diagnostic & Research Center for Molecular Biomedicine, Institute of Pathology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Patrick Michl
- Clinic for Internal Medicine I, Martin-Luther University Halle/Wittenberg, Ernst-Grube-Straße 40, D 06120, Halle, Germany.
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Heidi Griesmann
- Clinic for Internal Medicine I, Martin-Luther University Halle/Wittenberg, Ernst-Grube-Straße 40, D 06120, Halle, Germany
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12
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Ebner J, Schmoellerl J, Piontek M, Manhart G, Troester S, Carter BZ, Neubauer H, Moriggl R, Szakács G, Zuber J, Köcher T, Andreeff M, Sperr WR, Valent P, Grebien F. ABCC1 and glutathione metabolism limit the efficacy of BCL-2 inhibitors in acute myeloid leukemia. Nat Commun 2023; 14:5709. [PMID: 37726279 PMCID: PMC10509209 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-41229-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The BCL-2 inhibitor Venetoclax is a promising agent for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). However, many patients are refractory to Venetoclax, and resistance develops quickly. ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters mediate chemotherapy resistance but their role in modulating the activity of targeted small-molecule inhibitors is unclear. Using CRISPR/Cas9 screening, we find that loss of ABCC1 strongly increases the sensitivity of AML cells to Venetoclax. Genetic and pharmacologic ABCC1 inactivation potentiates the anti-leukemic effects of BCL-2 inhibitors and efficiently re-sensitizes Venetoclax-resistant leukemia cells. Conversely, ABCC1 overexpression induces resistance to BCL-2 inhibitors by reducing intracellular drug levels, and high ABCC1 levels predicts poor response to Venetoclax therapy in patients. Consistent with ABCC1-specific export of glutathionylated substrates, inhibition of glutathione metabolism increases the potency of BCL-2 inhibitors. These results identify ABCC1 and glutathione metabolism as mechanisms limiting efficacy of BCL-2 inhibitors, which may pave the way to development of more effective therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Ebner
- Institute for Medical Biochemistry, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Johannes Schmoellerl
- Institute for Medical Biochemistry, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Research Institute of Molecular Pathology (IMP), Vienna BioCenter (VBC), Vienna, Austria
| | - Martin Piontek
- Institute for Medical Biochemistry, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gabriele Manhart
- Institute for Medical Biochemistry, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Selina Troester
- Institute for Medical Biochemistry, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Bing Z Carter
- Section of Molecular Hematology and Therapy, Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Heidi Neubauer
- Institute for Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Richard Moriggl
- Institute for Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gergely Szakács
- Center for Cancer Research, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Institute of Enzymology, Research Centre of Natural Sciences, Eötvös Loránd Research Network, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Johannes Zuber
- Research Institute of Molecular Pathology (IMP), Vienna BioCenter (VBC), Vienna, Austria
- Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Thomas Köcher
- Vienna BioCenter Core Facilities, Vienna BioCenter, Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael Andreeff
- Section of Molecular Hematology and Therapy, Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Wolfgang R Sperr
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Division of Hematology and Hemostaseology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Hematology and Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Peter Valent
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Division of Hematology and Hemostaseology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Hematology and Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Florian Grebien
- Institute for Medical Biochemistry, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
- St. Anna Children's Cancer Research Institute (CCRI), Vienna, Austria.
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13
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Neely V, Manchikalapudi A, Nguyen K, Dalton K, Hu B, Koblinski JE, Faber AC, Deb S, Harada H. Targeting Oncogenic Mutant p53 and BCL-2 for Small Cell Lung Cancer Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13082. [PMID: 37685889 PMCID: PMC10487506 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Through a unique genomics and drug screening platform with ~800 solid tumor cell lines, we have found a subset of SCLC cell lines are hypersensitive to venetoclax, an FDA-approved inhibitor of BCL-2. SCLC-A (ASCL1 positive) and SCLC-P (POU2F3 positive), which make up almost 80% of SCLC, frequently express high levels of BCL-2. We found that a subset of SCLC-A and SCLC-P showed high BCL-2 expression but were venetoclax-resistant. In addition, most of these SCLC cell lines have TP53 missense mutations, which make a single amino acid change. These mutants not only lose wild-type (WT) p53 tumor suppressor functions, but also acquire novel cancer-promoting activities (oncogenic, gain-of-function). A recent study with oncogenic mutant (Onc)-p53 knock-in mouse models of SCLC suggests gain-of-function activity can attenuate chemotherapeutic efficacy. Based on these observations, we hypothesize that Onc-p53 confers venetoclax resistance and that simultaneous inhibition of BCL-2 and Onc-p53 induces synergistic anticancer activity in a subset of SCLC-A and SCLC-P. We show here that (1) down-regulation of Onc-p53 increases the expression of a BH3-only pro-apoptotic BIM and sensitizes to venetoclax in SCLC-P cells; (2) targeting Onc-p53 by the HSP90 inhibitor, ganetespib, increases BIM expression and sensitizes to venetoclax in SCLC-P and SCLC-A cells. Although there are currently many combination studies for venetoclax proposed, the concept of simultaneous targeting of BCL-2 and Onc-p53 by the combination of venetoclax and HSP90 inhibitors would be a promising approach for SCLC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Neely
- Philips Institute for Oral Health Research, School of Dentistry, Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (V.N.); (A.M.); (K.N.); (K.D.); (A.C.F.)
| | - Alekhya Manchikalapudi
- Philips Institute for Oral Health Research, School of Dentistry, Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (V.N.); (A.M.); (K.N.); (K.D.); (A.C.F.)
| | - Khanh Nguyen
- Philips Institute for Oral Health Research, School of Dentistry, Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (V.N.); (A.M.); (K.N.); (K.D.); (A.C.F.)
| | - Krista Dalton
- Philips Institute for Oral Health Research, School of Dentistry, Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (V.N.); (A.M.); (K.N.); (K.D.); (A.C.F.)
| | - Bin Hu
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (B.H.); (J.E.K.)
| | - Jennifer E. Koblinski
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (B.H.); (J.E.K.)
| | - Anthony C. Faber
- Philips Institute for Oral Health Research, School of Dentistry, Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (V.N.); (A.M.); (K.N.); (K.D.); (A.C.F.)
| | - Sumitra Deb
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA;
| | - Hisashi Harada
- Philips Institute for Oral Health Research, School of Dentistry, Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (V.N.); (A.M.); (K.N.); (K.D.); (A.C.F.)
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14
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Ramkumar K, Tanimoto A, Della Corte CM, Allison Stewart C, Wang Q, Shen L, Cardnell RJ, Wang J, Polanska UM, Andersen C, Saeh J, Elizabeth Pease J, Travers J, Fabbri G, Gay CM, Urosevic J, Byers LA. Targeting BCL2 Overcomes Resistance and Augments Response to Aurora Kinase B Inhibition by AZD2811 in Small Cell Lung Cancer. Clin Cancer Res 2023; 29:3237-3249. [PMID: 37289191 PMCID: PMC10527398 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-23-0375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Therapeutic resistance to frontline therapy develops rapidly in small cell lung cancer (SCLC). Treatment options are also limited by the lack of targetable driver mutations. Therefore, there is an unmet need for developing better therapeutic strategies and biomarkers of response. Aurora kinase B (AURKB) inhibition exploits an inherent genomic vulnerability in SCLC and is a promising therapeutic approach. Here, we identify biomarkers of response and develop rational combinations with AURKB inhibition to improve treatment efficacy. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Selective AURKB inhibitor AZD2811 was profiled in a large panel of SCLC cell lines (n = 57) and patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models. Proteomic and transcriptomic profiles were analyzed to identify candidate biomarkers of response and resistance. Effects on polyploidy, DNA damage, and apoptosis were measured by flow cytometry and Western blotting. Rational drug combinations were validated in SCLC cell lines and PDX models. RESULTS AZD2811 showed potent growth inhibitory activity in a subset of SCLC, often characterized by, but not limited to, high cMYC expression. Importantly, high BCL2 expression predicted resistance to AURKB inhibitor response in SCLC, independent of cMYC status. AZD2811-induced DNA damage and apoptosis were suppressed by high BCL2 levels, while combining AZD2811 with a BCL2 inhibitor significantly sensitized resistant models. In vivo, sustained tumor growth reduction and regression was achieved even with intermittent dosing of AZD2811 and venetoclax, an FDA-approved BCL2 inhibitor. CONCLUSIONS BCL2 inhibition overcomes intrinsic resistance and enhances sensitivity to AURKB inhibition in SCLC preclinical models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kavya Ramkumar
- Department of Thoracic/Head & Neck Medical Oncology, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Azusa Tanimoto
- Department of Thoracic/Head & Neck Medical Oncology, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | | | - C. Allison Stewart
- Department of Thoracic/Head & Neck Medical Oncology, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Li Shen
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Robert J. Cardnell
- Department of Thoracic/Head & Neck Medical Oncology, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Urszula M. Polanska
- Bioscience, Research and Early Development, Oncology R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, UK
| | - Courtney Andersen
- Bioscience, Research and Early Development, Oncology R&D, AstraZeneca, Waltham, USA
| | - Jamal Saeh
- Bioscience, Research and Early Development, Oncology R&D, AstraZeneca, Waltham, USA
| | - J. Elizabeth Pease
- Bioscience, Research and Early Development, Oncology R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, UK
| | - Jon Travers
- Bioscience, Research and Early Development, Oncology R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, UK
| | - Giulia Fabbri
- Translational Medicine, Research and Early Development, Oncology R&D, AstraZeneca, Waltham, USA
| | - Carl M. Gay
- Department of Thoracic/Head & Neck Medical Oncology, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jelena Urosevic
- Bioscience, Research and Early Development, Oncology R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, UK
| | - Lauren A. Byers
- Department of Thoracic/Head & Neck Medical Oncology, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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15
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Saida Y, Watanabe S, Kikuchi T. Extensive-Stage Small-Cell Lung Cancer: Current Landscape and Future Prospects. Onco Targets Ther 2023; 16:657-671. [PMID: 37551311 PMCID: PMC10404428 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s272552] [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: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) is characterized by aggressive disease progression and tendency to metastasize. Although chemotherapy for extensive-stage SCLC (ES-SCLC) has remained unchanged for decades, immune checkpoint inhibitors have become the primary therapy for ES-SCLC. However, the number of patients benefiting from immunotherapy is limited, and the treatment outcomes remain unsatisfactory. In addition, predictive biomarkers for immunotherapy have not yet been identified. Recent reports have shed light on the genomics of SCLC and defined four distinct molecular subtypes based on transcription factor expression. This may increase our understanding of the biology of SCLC and identify novel therapeutic targets and drugs. In this article, we review the current standard management of ES-SCLC and present the most recent reports to further our understanding of molecular classification, predictive biomarkers, and prospective therapies, including immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Saida
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan
| | - Satoshi Watanabe
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan
| | - Toshiaki Kikuchi
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan
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16
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Hasan G, Hassan MI, Sohal SS, Shamsi A, Alam M. Therapeutic Targeting of Regulated Signaling Pathways of Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:26685-26698. [PMID: 37546685 PMCID: PMC10398694 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c02424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
Non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) is the most common cancer globally. Phytochemicals and small molecule inhibitors significantly prevent varying types of cancers, including NSCLC. These therapeutic molecules serve as important sources for new drugs that interfere with cellular proliferation, apoptosis, metastasis, and angiogenesis by regulating signaling pathways. These molecules affect several cellular signaling cascades, including p53, NF-κB, STAT3, RAS, MAPK/ERK, Wnt, and AKT/PI3K, and are thus implicated in the therapeutic management of cancers. This review aims to describe the bioactive compounds and small-molecule inhibitors, their anticancer action, and targeting cellular signaling cascades in NSCLC. We highlighted the therapeutic potential of Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), Perifosine, ABT-737, Thymoquinine, Quercetin, Venetoclax, Gefitinib, and Genistein. These compounds are implicated in the therapeutic management of NSCLC. This review further offers deeper mechanistic insights into different signaling pathways that could be targeted for NSCLC therapy by phytochemicals and small-molecule inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gulam
Mustafa Hasan
- Department
of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Prince
Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 173, Al-Kharj 11942, Saudi Arabia
| | - Md. Imtaiyaz Hassan
- Centre
for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi 110025, India
| | - Sukhwinder Singh Sohal
- Respiratory
Translational Research Group, Department of Laboratory Medicine, School
of Health Sciences, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston 7001, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Anas Shamsi
- Centre
of Medical and Bio-Allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman 346, United Arab
Emirates
| | - Manzar Alam
- Centre
for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi 110025, India
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17
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Moliner L, Zhang B, Lamberti G, Ardizzoni A, Byers LA, Califano R. Novel therapeutic strategies for recurrent SCLC. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2023; 186:104017. [PMID: 37150311 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2023.104017] [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: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic options for patients with relapsed SCLC are limited, and the prognosis in this setting remains poor. While clinical outcomes for frontline treatment have modestly improved with the introduction of immunotherapy, treatment in the second-line setting persists almost unchanged. In this review, current treatment options and recent advances in molecular biology are described. Emerging therapeutic options in this setting and potential strategies to improve clinical outcomes of these patients are also addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Moliner
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, M20 4BX, UK
| | - Bingnan Zhang
- Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Giuseppe Lamberti
- Department of Specialized, Experimental and Diagnostic Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, 40138, Italy
| | - Andrea Ardizzoni
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, 40138, Italy
| | - Lauren A Byers
- Department of Thoracic/Head & Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Raffaele Califano
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, M20 4BX, UK; Division of Cancer Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9NT, UK.
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18
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Valko Z, Megyesfalvi Z, Schwendenwein A, Lang C, Paku S, Barany N, Ferencz B, Horvath-Rozsas A, Kovacs I, Schlegl E, Pozonec V, Boettiger K, Rezeli M, Marko-Varga G, Renyi-Vamos F, Hoda MA, Klikovits T, Hoetzenecker K, Grusch M, Laszlo V, Dome B, Schelch K. Dual targeting of BCL-2 and MCL-1 in the presence of BAX breaks venetoclax resistance in human small cell lung cancer. Br J Cancer 2023; 128:1850-1861. [PMID: 36918717 PMCID: PMC10147697 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-023-02219-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND No targeted drugs are currently available against small cell lung cancer (SCLC). BCL-2 family members are involved in apoptosis regulation and represent therapeutic targets in many malignancies. METHODS Expression of BCL-2 family members in 27 SCLC cell lines representing all known four SCLC molecular subtypes was assessed by qPCR, Western blot and mass spectrometry-based proteomics. BCL-2 and MCL-1 inhibition (venetoclax and S63845, respectively) was assessed by MTT assay and flow cytometry and in mice bearing human SCLC tumours. Drug interactions were calculated using the Combenefit software. Ectopic BAX overexpression was achieved by expression plasmids. RESULTS The highest BCL-2 expression levels were detected in ASCL1- and POU2F3-driven SCLC cells. Although sensitivity to venetoclax was reflected by BCL-2 levels, not all cell lines responded consistently despite their high BCL-2 expression. MCL-1 overexpression and low BAX levels were both characteristic for venetoclax resistance in SCLC, whereas the expression of other BCL-2 family members did not affect therapeutic efficacy. Combination of venetoclax and S63845 resulted in significant, synergistic in vitro and in vivo anti-tumour activity and apoptosis induction in double-resistant cells; however, this was seen only in a subset with detectable BAX. In non-responding cells, ectopic BAX overexpression sensitised to venetoclax and S63845 and, furthermore, induced synergistic drug interaction. CONCLUSIONS The current study reveals the subtype specificity of BCL-2 expression and sheds light on the mechanism of venetoclax resistance in SCLC. Additionally, we provide preclinical evidence that combined BCL-2 and MCL-1 targeting is an effective approach to overcome venetoclax resistance in high BCL-2-expressing SCLCs with intact BAX.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zsuzsanna Valko
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- National Koranyi Institute of Pulmonology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zsolt Megyesfalvi
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- National Koranyi Institute of Pulmonology, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Semmelweis University and National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Anna Schwendenwein
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christian Lang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sandor Paku
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Nandor Barany
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- National Koranyi Institute of Pulmonology, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Bence Ferencz
- National Koranyi Institute of Pulmonology, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Semmelweis University and National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
| | | | - Ildiko Kovacs
- National Koranyi Institute of Pulmonology, Budapest, Hungary
| | | | - Veronika Pozonec
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Semmelweis University and National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Kristiina Boettiger
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Melinda Rezeli
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | | | - Ferenc Renyi-Vamos
- National Koranyi Institute of Pulmonology, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Semmelweis University and National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Mir Alireza Hoda
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Thomas Klikovits
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Klinik Floridsdorf, Vienna, Austria
| | - Konrad Hoetzenecker
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael Grusch
- Center for Cancer Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Viktoria Laszlo
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- National Koranyi Institute of Pulmonology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Balazs Dome
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
- National Koranyi Institute of Pulmonology, Budapest, Hungary.
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Semmelweis University and National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary.
- Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden.
| | - Karin Schelch
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
- Center for Cancer Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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19
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Kamolphiwong R, Kanokwiroon K, Wongrin W, Chaiyawat P, Klangjorhor J, Settakorn J, Teeyakasem P, Sangphukieo A, Pruksakorn D. Potential target identification for osteosarcoma treatment: Gene expression re-analysis and drug repurposing. Gene X 2023; 856:147106. [PMID: 36513192 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2022.147106] [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: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Survival rate of osteosarcoma has remained plateaued for the past three decades. New treatment is needed to improve survival rate. Drug repurposing, a method to identify new indications of previous drugs, which saves time and cost compared to the de novo drug discovery. Data mining from gene expression profile was carried out and new potential targets were identified by using drug repurposing strategy. Selected data were newly categorized as pathophysiology and metastasis groups. Data were normalized and calculated the differential gene expression. Genes with log fold change ≥ 2 and adjusted p-value ≤ 0.05 were selected as primary candidate genes (PCGs). PCGs were further enriched to determine the secondary candidate genes (SCGs) by protein interaction analysis, upstream transcription factor and related-protein kinase identification. PCGs and SCGs were further matched with gene targeted of corresponding drugs from the Drug Repurposing Hub. A total of 778 targets were identified (360 from PCGs, and 418 from SCGs). This newly identified KLHL13 is a new candidate target based on its molecular function. KLHL13 was upregulated in clinical samples. We found 256 drugs from matching processes (50anti-cancerand206non-anticancerdrugs). Clinical trials of anti-cancer drugs from 5 targets (CDK4, BCL-2, JUN, SRC, PIK3CA) are being performed for osteosarcoma treatment. Niclosamide and synthetic PPARɣ ligands are candidates for repurposing due to the possibility based on their mechanism and pharmacology properties. Re-analysis of gene expression profile could identify new potential targets, confirm a current implication, and expand the chance of repurposing drugs for osteosarcoma treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rawikant Kamolphiwong
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, Thailand
| | - Kanyanatt Kanokwiroon
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, Thailand.
| | - Weerinrada Wongrin
- Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Parunya Chaiyawat
- Musculoskeletal Science and Translational Research Center, Department of Orthopaedics, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand; Center of Multidisciplinary Technology for Advanced Medicine (CMUTEAM), Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand
| | - Jeerawan Klangjorhor
- Musculoskeletal Science and Translational Research Center, Department of Orthopaedics, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand; Center of Multidisciplinary Technology for Advanced Medicine (CMUTEAM), Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand
| | - Jongkolnee Settakorn
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Pimpisa Teeyakasem
- Musculoskeletal Science and Translational Research Center, Department of Orthopaedics, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Apiwat Sangphukieo
- Center of Multidisciplinary Technology for Advanced Medicine (CMUTEAM), Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand
| | - Dumnoensun Pruksakorn
- Musculoskeletal Science and Translational Research Center, Department of Orthopaedics, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand; Center of Multidisciplinary Technology for Advanced Medicine (CMUTEAM), Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand.
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20
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Molecular Classification of Extrapulmonary Neuroendocrine Carcinomas With Emphasis on POU2F3-positive Tuft Cell Carcinoma. Am J Surg Pathol 2023; 47:183-193. [PMID: 36253891 PMCID: PMC9833113 DOI: 10.1097/pas.0000000000001977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Extrapulmonary neuroendocrine carcinomas (EP-NECs) are associated with a poor clinical outcome, and limited information is available on the biology and treatment of EP-NECs. We studied EP-NECs by applying the recent novel findings from studies of pulmonary neuroendocrine carcinomas, including POU2F3, the master regulator of tuft cell variant of small cell lung carcinomas. A cohort of 190 patients with surgically resected EP-NECs or poorly differentiated carcinomas (PDCs) were established. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) for POU2F3 along with ASCL1, NEUROD1, YAP1, and conventional neuroendocrine markers was performed on tissue microarrays. Selected cases with or without POU2F3 expression were subjected to targeted gene expression profiling using nCounter PanCancer Pathway panel. POU2F3-positive tuft cell carcinomas were present in 12.6% of EP-NEC/PDCs, with variable proportions according to organ systems. POU2F3 expression was negatively correlated with the expression levels of ASCL1, NEUROD1, and conventional neuroendocrine markers ( P <0.001), enabling IHC-based molecular classification into ASCL1-dominant, NEUROD1-dominant, POU2F3-dominant, YAP1-dominant, and not otherwise specified subtypes. Compared wih POU2F3-negative cases, POU2F3-positive tuft cell carcinomas showed markedly higher expression levels of PLCG2 and BCL2 , which was also validated in the entire cohort by IHC. In addition to POU2F3, YAP1-positive tumors were a distinct subtype among EP-NEC/PDCs, characterized by unique T-cell inflamed microenvironment. We found rare extrapulmonary POU2F3-positive tumors arising from previously unappreciated cells of origin. Our data show novel molecular pathologic features of EP-NEC/PDCs including potential therapeutic vulnerabilities, thereby emphasizing the need for focusing on unique features of EP-NEC/PDCs.
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21
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Song Y, Wang Y, Guan A, Xue J, Li B, Huang Z, Zheng Z, Liang N, Yang Y, Li S. Footprints: Stamping hallmarks of lung cancer with patient-derived models, from molecular mechanisms to clinical translation. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1132940. [PMID: 36911198 PMCID: PMC9993089 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1132940] [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: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The conventional two-dimensional (2D) tumor cell lines in Petri dishes have played an important role in revealing the molecular biological mechanism of lung cancer. However, they cannot adequately recapitulate the complex biological systems and clinical outcomes of lung cancer. The three-dimensional (3D) cell culture enables the possible 3D cell interactions and the complex 3D systems with co-culture of different cells mimicking the tumor microenvironments (TME). In this regard, patient-derived models, mainly patient-derived tumor xenograft (PDX) and patient-derived organoids discussed hereby, are with higher biological fidelity of lung cancer, and regarded as more faithful preclinical models. The significant Hallmarks of Cancer is believed to be the most comprehensive coverage of current research on tumor biological characteristics. Therefore, this review aims to present and discuss the application of different patient-derived lung cancer models from molecular mechanisms to clinical translation with regards to the dimensions of different hallmarks, and to look to the prospects of these patient-derived lung cancer models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Song
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yadong Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ai Guan
- Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jianchao Xue
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Bowen Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhicheng Huang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhibo Zheng
- Department of International Medical Services, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Naixin Liang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yanlian Yang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Biological Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Key Laboratory of Standardization and Measurement for Nanotechnology, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Shanqing Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
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22
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Voutsadakis IA. Molecular alterations in anti-apoptotic BCL2 family proteins in breast cancer cell line models, drug sensitivities and dependencies to guide the development of BCL2 inhibitors. Gene X 2022; 847:146881. [PMID: 36100115 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2022.146881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers and a cause of significant morbidity and mortality. Despite introduction of new therapies that improve control of the disease, metastatic breast cancer remains still incurable in most cases. Further therapies based on a better understanding of the pathogenesis of breast cancers and its sub-types are needed to improve outcomes. Apoptosis has arisen as a potential target in recent years. Research on therapeutic use of apoptosis promoting drugs could be advanced by cell line models of efficacy. METHODS Alterations in antiapoptotic members of the BCL2 family of proteins encoded by genes BCL2, BCL2L1, BCL2L2, MCL1 and BCL2A1 were evaluated in breast cancer cell lines from the Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia (CCLE). Sensitivities of breast cancer cell lines to apoptosis promoting drugs were evaluated using the Genomics of Drug Sensitivity in Cancer (GDSC) platform. Concomitant molecular aberrations of sensitive and resistant cell lines were examined for recurrent themes. Cell line dependencies were surveyed using publicly available CRISPR and RNAi arrays. RESULTS Breast cancer cell lines, in concordance with breast cancer patient samples, commonly exhibit amplifications in the BCL2 member MCL1 but not other molecular alterations in antiapoptotic family members. The panel of breast cancer cell lines with sensitivity to drugs inhibiting MCL1, with or without inhibition of other family members consists exclusively of cell lines of the basal phenotype. Sensitive cell lines possess fewer amplifications in the commonly amplified in breast cancer loci at 8q23, 11q13, 17q12 and 1q21. Dependency analysis suggests that in some instances activity of cancer related pathways such as PI3K/ AKT and WNT/ β-catenin may affect apoptosis threshold. CONCLUSION Breast cancer cell line models faithfully depict the most common molecular aberration in BCL2 family proteins observed in clinical breast cancer samples, MCL1 amplifications. Basal cell lines may be a preferred target of MCL1 inhibitors. However, concomitant aberrations, as explored in this report, are likely to be involved in ultimate sensitivity to anti-apoptosis targeting therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis A Voutsadakis
- Algoma District Cancer Program, Sault Area Hospital, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada; Section of Internal Medicine, Division of Clinical Sciences, Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Sudbury, Ontario, Canada.
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23
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Pulmonary cancers across different histotypes share hybrid tuft cell/ionocyte-like molecular features and potentially druggable vulnerabilities. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:979. [PMID: 36402755 PMCID: PMC9675833 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-05428-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Tuft cells are chemosensory epithelial cells in the respiratory tract and several other organs. Recent studies revealed tuft cell-like gene expression signatures in some pulmonary adenocarcinomas, squamous cell carcinomas (SQCC), small cell carcinomas (SCLC), and large cell neuroendocrine carcinomas (LCNEC). Identification of their similarities could inform shared druggable vulnerabilities. Clinicopathological features of tuft cell-like (tcl) subsets in various lung cancer histotypes were studied in two independent tumor cohorts using immunohistochemistry (n = 674 and 70). Findings were confirmed, and additional characteristics were explored using public datasets (RNA seq and immunohistochemical data) (n = 555). Drug susceptibilities of tuft cell-like SCLC cell lines were also investigated. By immunohistochemistry, 10-20% of SCLC and LCNEC, and approximately 2% of SQCC expressed POU2F3, the master regulator of tuft cells. These tuft cell-like tumors exhibited "lineage ambiguity" as they co-expressed NCAM1, a marker for neuroendocrine differentiation, and KRT5, a marker for squamous differentiation. In addition, tuft cell-like tumors co-expressed BCL2 and KIT, and tuft cell-like SCLC and LCNEC, but not SQCC, also highly expressed MYC. Data from public datasets confirmed these features and revealed that tuft cell-like SCLC and LCNEC co-clustered on hierarchical clustering. Furthermore, only tuft cell-like subsets among pulmonary cancers significantly expressed FOXI1, the master regulator of ionocytes, suggesting their bidirectional but immature differentiation status. Clinically, tuft cell-like SCLC and LCNEC had a similar prognosis. Experimentally, tuft cell-like SCLC cell lines were susceptible to PARP and BCL2 co-inhibition, indicating synergistic effects. Taken together, pulmonary tuft cell-like cancers maintain histotype-related clinicopathologic characteristics despite overlapping unique molecular features. From a therapeutic perspective, identification of tuft cell-like LCNECs might be crucial given their close kinship with tuft cell-like SCLC.
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24
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Guo Y, Zhang L, Zhang N, Chen L, Luo Q, Liu M, Yang D, Chen J. Bcl-2 and Noxa are potential prognostic indicators for patients with gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms. Endocrine 2022; 78:159-168. [PMID: 35895181 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-022-03114-8] [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: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Bcl-2 family proteins are of great significance in the pathogenesis and development of tumors. In this study, the correlations between the expression of Bcl-2 family proteins and clinicopathological features and prognosis of neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) were further investigated. METHODS 105 Patients diagnosed with gastroenteropancreatic NENs (GEP-NENs) with the paraffin specimen of the tumor available were retrospectively included. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was performed to detect the expression of Bcl-2 family proteins in paraffin-embedded samples. Student's t-test and Chi-square test were applied to compare the difference of quantitative and categorical variables, respectively. Survival analysis was conducted according to Kaplan-Meier method. Univariate and multivariate cox regression analysis were used to identify the independent prognostic factors. RESULTS The IHC score of Bcl-2 was significantly higher in neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC) patients (65.6%), while a higher IHC score of Noxa was more common in neuroendocrine tumor (NET) patients (49.3%). Survival analysis indicated that patients with higher Bcl-2 expression and lower Noxa expression had worse 5-year survival (39.3% vs. 75.6%, p < 0.001; 40.6% vs. 84.9%, p < 0.001). Multivariate cox analysis indicated that high Bcl-2 expression was an independent factor associated with inferior DFS (hazard ratio [HR]: 2.092; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.106-3.955; p = 0.023) and OS (HR: 2.784; 95% CI: 1.326-5.846; p = 0.007), while higher Noxa expression was associated with superior DFS (HR:0.398; 95% CI: 0.175-0.907; p = 0.028) and OS (HR: 0.274; 95% CI: 0.110-0.686; p = 0.006). CONCLUSIONS Higher expression of Bcl-2 and lower expression of Noxa were associated with unfavorable prognosis of GEP-NENs patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Lin Zhang
- Department of Experimental Research, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Ning Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Luohai Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Qiuyun Luo
- Department of Experimental Research, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
- The Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518033, China
| | - Man Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Dajun Yang
- Department of Experimental Research, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China.
| | - Jie Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
- Center for Neuroendocrine Tumors, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- Department of Head & Neck tumors and Neuroendocrine Tumors, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center Shanghai, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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25
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Bain NT, Wang Y, Arulananda S. Minimal residual disease in EGFR-mutant non-small-cell lung cancer. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1002714. [PMID: 36212398 PMCID: PMC9533094 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1002714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Targeted therapy with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) is an effective treatment for EGFR-mutant non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), however most patients invariably relapse after a period of minimal residual disease (MRD). This mini-review explores the mechanistic pathways leading to tumour dormancy, cellular senescence and epigenetic changes involving YAP/TEAD activation. We describe the various approaches of utilising TKIs in combination with agents to intensify initial depth of response, enhance apoptosis and target senescence-like dormancy. This mini-review will also highlight the potential novel therapies under development targeting MRD to improve outcomes for patients with EGFR-mutant NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan T. Bain
- Department of Medical Oncology, Monash Health, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Yang Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Monash Health, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Surein Arulananda
- Department of Medical Oncology, Monash Health, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- School of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, United States
- *Correspondence: Surein Arulananda,
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26
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Zhang C, Wang H. Accurate treatment of small cell lung cancer: Current progress, new challenges and expectations. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2022; 1877:188798. [PMID: 36096336 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2022.188798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is a deadly disease with poor prognosis. Fast growing speed, inclination to metastasis, enrichment in cancer stem cells altogether constitute its aggressive nature. In stark contrast to non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that strides vigorously on the road to precision oncology, SCLC has been on the embryonic path to achieve effective personalized treatments. The survival of patients with SCLC have not been improved greatly, which could be possibly due to our inadequate understanding of genetic alterations of SCLC. Recently, encouraging effects have been observed in patients with SCLC undergoing immunotherapy. However, exciting results have only been observed in a small fraction of patients with SCLC, warranting biomarkers predictive of responses as well as novel therapeutic strategies. In addition, SCLC has previously been viewed to be homogeneous. However, perspectives have been changed thanks to the advances in sequencing techniques and platforms, which unfolds the complex heterogeneity of SCLC both genetically and non-genetically, rendering the treatment of SCLC a further step forward into the precision era. To outline the road of SCLC towards precision oncology, we summarize the progresses and achievements made in precision treatment in SCLC in genomic, transcriptomic, epigenetic, proteomic and metabolic dimensions. Moreover, we conclude relevant therapeutic vulnerabilities in SCLC. Clinically tested drugs and clinical trials have also been demonstrated. Ultimately, we look into the opportunities and challenges ahead to advance the individualized treatment in pursuit of improved survival for patients with SCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenyue Zhang
- Department of Integrated Therapy, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, China
| | - Haiyong Wang
- Department of Internal Medicine-Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China.
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27
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Venetoclax enhances the efficacy of therapeutic antibodies in B-cell malignancies by augmenting tumor cell phagocytosis. Blood Adv 2022; 6:4847-4858. [PMID: 35820018 PMCID: PMC9631674 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2022007364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has evolved as a powerful tool for the treatment of B-cell malignancies, and patient outcomes have improved by combining therapeutic antibodies with conventional chemotherapy. Overexpression of antiapoptotic B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) is associated with a poor prognosis, and increased levels have been described in patients with "double-hit" diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, a subgroup of Burkitt's lymphoma, and patients with pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia harboring a t(17;19) translocation. Here, we show that the addition of venetoclax (VEN), a specific Bcl-2 inhibitor, potently enhanced the efficacy of the therapeutic anti-CD20 antibody rituximab, anti-CD38 daratumumab, and anti-CD19-DE, a proprietary version of tafasitamab. This was because of an increase in antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis by macrophages as shown in vitro and in vivo in cell lines and patient-derived xenograft models. Mechanistically, double-hit lymphoma cells subjected to VEN triggered phagocytosis in an apoptosis-independent manner. Our study identifies the combination of VEN and therapeutic antibodies as a promising novel strategy for the treatment of B-cell malignancies.
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28
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Peng F, Liao M, Qin R, Zhu S, Peng C, Fu L, Chen Y, Han B. Regulated cell death (RCD) in cancer: key pathways and targeted therapies. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:286. [PMID: 35963853 PMCID: PMC9376115 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01110-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 165] [Impact Index Per Article: 82.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Regulated cell death (RCD), also well-known as programmed cell death (PCD), refers to the form of cell death that can be regulated by a variety of biomacromolecules, which is distinctive from accidental cell death (ACD). Accumulating evidence has revealed that RCD subroutines are the key features of tumorigenesis, which may ultimately lead to the establishment of different potential therapeutic strategies. Hitherto, targeting the subroutines of RCD with pharmacological small-molecule compounds has been emerging as a promising therapeutic avenue, which has rapidly progressed in many types of human cancers. Thus, in this review, we focus on summarizing not only the key apoptotic and autophagy-dependent cell death signaling pathways, but the crucial pathways of other RCD subroutines, including necroptosis, pyroptosis, ferroptosis, parthanatos, entosis, NETosis and lysosome-dependent cell death (LCD) in cancer. Moreover, we further discuss the current situation of several small-molecule compounds targeting the different RCD subroutines to improve cancer treatment, such as single-target, dual or multiple-target small-molecule compounds, drug combinations, and some new emerging therapeutic strategies that would together shed new light on future directions to attack cancer cell vulnerabilities with small-molecule drugs targeting RCD for therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fu Peng
- West China School of Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Minru Liao
- West China School of Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Rui Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Shiou Zhu
- West China School of Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.,Sichuan Engineering Research Center for Biomimetic Synthesis of Natural Drugs, School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, 610031, China
| | - Cheng Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Leilei Fu
- Sichuan Engineering Research Center for Biomimetic Synthesis of Natural Drugs, School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, 610031, China.
| | - Yi Chen
- West China School of Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Bo Han
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China.
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29
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Yuan M, Zhao Y, Arkenau HT, Lao T, Chu L, Xu Q. Signal pathways and precision therapy of small-cell lung cancer. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:187. [PMID: 35705538 PMCID: PMC9200817 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01013-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) encounters up 15% of all lung cancers, and is characterized by a high rate of proliferation, a tendency for early metastasis and generally poor prognosis. Most of the patients present with distant metastatic disease at the time of clinical diagnosis, and only one-third are eligible for potentially curative treatment. Recently, investigations into the genomic make-up of SCLC show extensive chromosomal rearrangements, high mutational burden and loss-of-function mutations of several tumor suppressor genes. Although the clinical development of new treatments for SCLC has been limited in recent years, a better understanding of oncogenic driver alterations has found potential novel targets that might be suitable for therapeutic approaches. Currently, there are six types of potential treatable signaling pathways in SCLC, including signaling pathways targeting the cell cycle and DNA repair, tumor development, cell metabolism, epigenetic regulation, tumor immunity and angiogenesis. At this point, however, there is still a lack of understanding of their role in SCLC tumor biology and the promotion of cancer growth. Importantly optimizing drug targets, improving drug pharmacology, and identifying potential biomarkers are the main focus and further efforts are required to recognize patients who benefit most from novel therapies in development. This review will focus on the current learning on the signaling pathways, the status of immunotherapy, and targeted therapy in SCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Yuan
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University, 200072, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Zhao
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University, 200072, Shanghai, China
| | | | - Tongnei Lao
- Department of Oncology, Centro Medico BO CHI, Macao, SAR, China
| | - Li Chu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 200032, Shanghai, China. .,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, 200032, Shanghai, China.
| | - Qing Xu
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University, 200072, Shanghai, China.
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30
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Frizziero M, Kilgour E, Simpson KL, Rothwell DG, Moore DA, Frese KK, Galvin M, Lamarca A, Hubner RA, Valle JW, McNamara MG, Dive C. Expanding Therapeutic Opportunities for Extrapulmonary Neuroendocrine Carcinoma. Clin Cancer Res 2022; 28:1999-2019. [PMID: 35091446 PMCID: PMC7612728 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-21-3058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Poorly differentiated neuroendocrine carcinomas (PD-NEC) are rare cancers garnering interest as they become more commonly encountered in the clinic. This is due to improved diagnostic methods and the increasingly observed phenomenon of "NE lineage plasticity," whereby nonneuroendocrine (non-NE) epithelial cancers transition to aggressive NE phenotypes after targeted treatment. Effective treatment options for patients with PD-NEC are challenging for several reasons. This includes a lack of targetable, recurrent molecular drivers, a paucity of patient-relevant preclinical models to study biology and test novel therapeutics, and the absence of validated biomarkers to guide clinical management. Although advances have been made pertaining to molecular subtyping of small cell lung cancer (SCLC), a PD-NEC of lung origin, extrapulmonary (EP)-PD-NECs remain understudied. This review will address emerging SCLC-like, same-organ non-NE cancer-like and tumor-type-agnostic biological vulnerabilities of EP-PD-NECs, with the potential for therapeutic exploitation. The hypotheses surrounding the origin of these cancers and how "NE lineage plasticity" can be leveraged for therapeutic purposes are discussed. SCLC is herein proposed as a paradigm for supporting progress toward precision medicine in EP-PD-NECs. The aim of this review is to provide a thorough portrait of the current knowledge of EP-PD-NEC biology, with a view to informing new avenues for research and future therapeutic opportunities in these cancers of unmet need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Frizziero
- Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute Cancer Biomarker Centre, The University of Manchester, Alderley Park, SK10 4TG, United Kingdom
- Division of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Rd, Manchester M13 9PL, United Kingdom
- Manchester European Neuroendocrine Tumour Society (ENETS) Centre of Excellence, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, 550 Wilmslow Rd, Manchester, M20 4BX, United Kingdom
| | - Elaine Kilgour
- Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute Cancer Biomarker Centre, The University of Manchester, Alderley Park, SK10 4TG, United Kingdom
| | - Kathryn L. Simpson
- Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute Cancer Biomarker Centre, The University of Manchester, Alderley Park, SK10 4TG, United Kingdom
| | - Dominic G. Rothwell
- Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute Cancer Biomarker Centre, The University of Manchester, Alderley Park, SK10 4TG, United Kingdom
| | - David A. Moore
- Cancer Research UK Lung Cancer Centre of Excellence, University College London Cancer Institute, 72 Huntley St, London WC1E 6DD, United Kingdom
- Department of Cellular Pathology, University College London Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, 235 Euston Rd, London NW1 2BU, United Kingdom
| | - Kristopher K. Frese
- Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute Cancer Biomarker Centre, The University of Manchester, Alderley Park, SK10 4TG, United Kingdom
| | - Melanie Galvin
- Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute Cancer Biomarker Centre, The University of Manchester, Alderley Park, SK10 4TG, United Kingdom
| | - Angela Lamarca
- Division of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Rd, Manchester M13 9PL, United Kingdom
- Manchester European Neuroendocrine Tumour Society (ENETS) Centre of Excellence, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, 550 Wilmslow Rd, Manchester, M20 4BX, United Kingdom
| | - Richard A. Hubner
- Division of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Rd, Manchester M13 9PL, United Kingdom
- Manchester European Neuroendocrine Tumour Society (ENETS) Centre of Excellence, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, 550 Wilmslow Rd, Manchester, M20 4BX, United Kingdom
| | - Juan W. Valle
- Division of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Rd, Manchester M13 9PL, United Kingdom
- Manchester European Neuroendocrine Tumour Society (ENETS) Centre of Excellence, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, 550 Wilmslow Rd, Manchester, M20 4BX, United Kingdom
| | - Mairéad G. McNamara
- Division of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Rd, Manchester M13 9PL, United Kingdom
- Manchester European Neuroendocrine Tumour Society (ENETS) Centre of Excellence, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, 550 Wilmslow Rd, Manchester, M20 4BX, United Kingdom
| | - Caroline Dive
- Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute Cancer Biomarker Centre, The University of Manchester, Alderley Park, SK10 4TG, United Kingdom
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31
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Small cell lung cancer: novel treatments beyond immunotherapy. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 86:376-385. [PMID: 35568295 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2022.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) arises in peribronchial locations and infiltrates the bronchial submucosa, including about 15% of lung cancer cases. Despite decades of research, the prognosis for SCLC patients remains poor because this tumor is characterized by an exceptionally high proliferative rate, strong tendency for early widespread metastasis and acquired chemoresistance. Omics profiling revealed that SCLC harbor extensive chromosomal rearrangements and a very high mutation burden. This led to the development of immune-checkpoint inhibitors as single agents or in combination with chemotherapy, which however resulted in a prolonged benefit only for a small subset of patients. Thus, the present review discusses the rationale and limitations of immunotherapeutic approaches, presenting the current biological understanding of aberrant signaling pathways that might be exploited with new potential treatments. In particular, new agents targeting DNA damage repair, cell cycle checkpoint, and apoptosis pathways showed several promising results in different preclinical models. Epigenetic alterations, gene amplifications and mutations can act as biomarkers in this context. Future research and improved clinical outcome for SCLC patients will depend on the integration between these omics and pharmacological studies with clinical translational research, in order to identify specific predictive biomarkers that will be hopefully validated using clinical trials with biomarker-selected targeted treatments.
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Montero J, Haq R. Adapted to Survive: Targeting Cancer Cells with BH3 Mimetics. Cancer Discov 2022; 12:1217-1232. [PMID: 35491624 PMCID: PMC9306285 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-21-1334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
A hallmark of cancer is cell death evasion, underlying suboptimal responses to chemotherapy, targeted agents, and immunotherapies. The approval of the antiapoptotic BCL2 antagonist venetoclax has finally validated the potential of targeting apoptotic pathways in patients with cancer. Nevertheless, pharmacologic modulators of cell death have shown markedly varied responses in preclinical and clinical studies. Here, we review emerging concepts in the use of this class of therapies. Building on these observations, we propose that treatment-induced changes in apoptotic dependency, rather than pretreatment dependencies, will need to be recognized and targeted to realize the precise deployment of these new pharmacologic agents. SIGNIFICANCE Targeting antiapoptotic family members has proven efficacious and tolerable in some cancers, but responses are infrequent, particularly for patients with solid tumors. Biomarkers to aid patient selection have been lacking. Precision functional approaches that overcome adaptive resistance to these compounds could drive durable responses to chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joan Montero
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain.,Corresponding Authors: Rizwan Haq, Department of Medical Oncology M423A, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02215. Phone: 617-632-6168; E-mail: ; and Joan Montero, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), c/Baldiri Reixac 15-21, Barcelona 08028, Spain. Phone: 34-93-403-9956; E-mail:
| | - Rizwan Haq
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Division of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Corresponding Authors: Rizwan Haq, Department of Medical Oncology M423A, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02215. Phone: 617-632-6168; E-mail: ; and Joan Montero, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), c/Baldiri Reixac 15-21, Barcelona 08028, Spain. Phone: 34-93-403-9956; E-mail:
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33
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Alam M, Alam S, Shamsi A, Adnan M, Elasbali AM, Al-Soud WA, Alreshidi M, Hawsawi YM, Tippana A, Pasupuleti VR, Hassan MI. Bax/Bcl-2 Cascade Is Regulated by the EGFR Pathway: Therapeutic Targeting of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. Front Oncol 2022; 12:869672. [PMID: 35402265 PMCID: PMC8990771 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.869672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) comprises 80%-85% of lung cancer cases. EGFR is involved in several cancer developments, including NSCLC. The EGFR pathway regulates the Bax/Bcl-2 cascade in NSCLC. Increasing understanding of the molecular mechanisms of fundamental tumor progression has guided the development of numerous antitumor drugs. The development and improvement of rationally planned inhibitors and agents targeting particular cellular and biological pathways in cancer have been signified as a most important paradigm shift in the strategy to treat and manage lung cancer. Newer approaches and novel chemotherapeutic agents are required to accompany present cancer therapies for improving efficiency. Using natural products as a drug with an effective delivery system may benefit therapeutics. Naturally originated compounds such as phytochemicals provide crucial sources for novel agents/drugs and resources for tumor therapy. Applying the small-molecule inhibitors (SMIs)/phytochemicals has led to potent preclinical discoveries in various human tumor preclinical models, including lung cancer. In this review, we summarize recent information on the molecular mechanisms of the Bax/Bcl-2 cascade and EGFR pathway in NSCLC and target them for therapeutic implications. We further described the therapeutic potential of Bax/Bcl-2/EGFR SMIs, mainly those with more potent and selectivity, including gefitinib, EGCG, ABT-737, thymoquinone, quercetin, and venetoclax. In addition, we explained the targeting EGFR pathway and ongoing in vitro and in vivo and clinical investigations in NSCLC. Exploration of such inhibitors facilitates the future treatment and management of NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manzar Alam
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, India
| | - Shoaib Alam
- Department of Biotechnology, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, India
| | - Anas Shamsi
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, India
| | - Mohd Adnan
- Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Hail, Hail, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdelbaset Mohamed Elasbali
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, College of Applied Sciences-Qurayyat, Jouf University, Sakaka, Saudi Arabia
| | - Waleed Abu Al-Soud
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Jouf University, Sakaka, Saudi Arabia.,Health Sciences Research Unit, Jouf University, Sakaka, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mousa Alreshidi
- Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Hail, Hail, Saudi Arabia.,Molecular Diagnostics and Personalized Therapeutics Unit, University of Hail, Hail, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Anitha Tippana
- Regional Agricultural Research Station, Acharya N. G. Ranga Agricultural University (ANGRAU), Tirupati, India
| | - Visweswara Rao Pasupuleti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, University Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia.,Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Abdurrab University, Pekanbaru, Indonesia.,Centre for International Collaboration and Research, Reva University, Rukmini Knowledge Park, Bangalore, India
| | - Md Imtaiyaz Hassan
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, India
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34
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Wang WZ, Shulman A, Amann JM, Carbone DP, Tsichlis PN. Small cell lung cancer: Subtypes and therapeutic implications. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 86:543-554. [DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2022.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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35
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Abstract
Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is a rapidly growing, highly metastatic, and relatively immune-cold lung cancer subtype. Historically viewed in the laboratory and clinic as a single disease, new discoveries suggest that SCLC comprises multiple molecular subsets. Expression of MYC family members and lineage-related transcription factors ASCL1, NEUROD1, and POU2F3 (and, in some studies, YAP1) define unique molecular states that have been associated with distinct responses to a variety of therapies. However, SCLC tumors exhibit a high degree of intratumoral heterogeneity, with recent studies suggesting the existence of tumor cell plasticity and phenotypic switching between subtype states. While SCLC plasticity is correlated with, and likely drives, therapeutic resistance, the mechanisms underlying this plasticity are still largely unknown. Subtype states are also associated with immune-related gene expression, which likely impacts response to immune checkpoint blockade and may reveal novel targets for alternative immunotherapeutic approaches. In this review, we synthesize recent discoveries on the mechanisms of SCLC plasticity and how these processes may impinge on antitumor immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate D Sutherland
- Australian Cancer Research Foundation (ACRF) Cancer Biology and Stem Cells Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Abbie S Ireland
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, USA
| | - Trudy G Oliver
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, USA
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36
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Diepstraten ST, Anderson MA, Czabotar PE, Lessene G, Strasser A, Kelly GL. The manipulation of apoptosis for cancer therapy using BH3-mimetic drugs. Nat Rev Cancer 2022; 22:45-64. [PMID: 34663943 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-021-00407-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 58.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Apoptosis is a form of programmed cell death that is regulated by the balance between prosurvival and proapoptotic BCL-2 protein family members. Evasion of apoptosis is a hallmark of cancer that arises when this balance is tipped in favour of survival. One form of anticancer therapeutic, termed 'BH3-mimetic drugs', has been developed to directly activate the apoptosis machinery in malignant cells. These drugs bind to and inhibit specific prosurvival BCL-2 family proteins, thereby mimicking their interaction with the BH3 domains of proapoptotic BCL-2 family proteins. The BCL-2-specific inhibitor venetoclax is approved by the US Food and Drug Administration and many regulatory authorities worldwide for the treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia and acute myeloid leukaemia. BH3-mimetic drugs targeting other BCL-2 prosurvival proteins have been tested in preclinical models of cancer, and drugs targeting MCL-1 or BCL-XL have advanced into phase I clinical trials for certain cancers. As with all therapeutics, efficacy and tolerability need to be carefully balanced to achieve a therapeutic window whereby there is significant anticancer activity with an acceptable safety profile. In this Review, we outline the current state of BH3-mimetic drugs targeting various prosurvival BCL-2 family proteins and discuss emerging data regarding primary and acquired resistance to these agents and approaches that may overcome this. We highlight issues that need to be addressed to further advance the clinical application of BH3-mimetic drugs, both alone and in combination with additional anticancer agents (for example, standard chemotherapeutic drugs or inhibitors of oncogenic kinases), for improved responses in patients with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah T Diepstraten
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Mary Ann Anderson
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Clinical Haematology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Peter E Czabotar
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Guillaume Lessene
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Andreas Strasser
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Gemma L Kelly
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
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Li L, Huang Z, Du K, Liu X, Li C, Wang D, Zhang Y, Wang C, Li J. Integrative Pan-Cancer Analysis Confirmed that FCGR3A is a Candidate Biomarker Associated With Tumor Immunity. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:900699. [PMID: 35668930 PMCID: PMC9163829 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.900699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Fc gamma receptor 3A (FCGR3A) encodes a receptor for the Fc portion of immunoglobulin G, which plays a significant role in the immune response. However, the role of FCGR3A in cancers remains unclear. This study aimed to visualize the prognostic landscape of FCGR3A in pan-cancer and investigate the relationship between FCGR3A expression and tumor microenvironment. Method: Based on the TCGA database, GTEx database, and GDSC database, we analyzed the expression of FCGR3A in pan-cancers and adjacent normal tissues and its relationship with prognosis, immune cells infiltration, immune-related genes, DNA mismatch repair (MMR) genes, DNA methylation, and drugs sensitivity. The gene alteration frequency of FCGR3A was acquired on the cBioportal website. Moreover, we constructed PPI networks, performed GO and KEGG analysis to illustrate the function, and signaling pathways of FCGR3A-related genes, and conducted gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) of FCGR3A to further explore its potential biological functions. Result: The differential analysis results of the publicly available databases showed that FCGR3A was generally highly expressed in pan-cancer. Survival analysis revealed that FCGR3A predominated as a risk prognostic factor in most cancers. Additionally, the expression of FCGR3A was confirmed to be associated with several immune cells infiltration, multiple immune checkpoint genes, and DNA mismatch repair genes expression in generalized carcinoma. We also identified a negative correlation between FCGR3A and DNA methylation levels. Through GO/KEGG and GESA, we found that FCGR3A was involved in many pathologic and physiological processes, and was most closely related to tumor immune-related pathways. Drug sensitivity analysis showed that higher FCGR3A expression predicts a low IC50 value for the vast majority of drugs. Conclusions: FCGR3A may be an immune-oncogenic molecule that correlates with tumor immune infiltration levels and affects drug sensitivity, thus it can be served as a promising biomarker for cancer detection, prognosis, therapeutic design, and follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilin Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Oncology Center, Zhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zijian Huang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Oncology Center, Zhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kunpeng Du
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiang Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Oncology Center, Zhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chunhui Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Oncology Center, Zhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Duanyu Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Oncology Center, Zhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yangfeng Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Oncology Center, Zhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Changqian Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Oncology Center, Zhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiqiang Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Oncology Center, Zhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Jiqiang Li, , orcid.org/0000-0002-585-5911
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Targeting the Intrinsic Apoptosis Pathway: A Window of Opportunity for Prostate Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 14:cancers14010051. [PMID: 35008216 PMCID: PMC8750516 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14010051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Prostate cancer treatment has improved over the last 20 years; despite this, approximately 33,000 men died from the disease in the United States in 2020. In view of this, new treatment options are urgently needed for advanced prostate cancer. Eradicating cancer cells by triggering apoptosis (a form of cell death) is an attractive strategy, and a novel class of drugs, called BH3 mimetics, have been designed to do this. They have been shown to work for blood cancers and may also have a role in solid cancers. Herein, we discuss cell death, focusing on the intrinsic apoptosis pathway, and consider how BH3 mimetics may be used to help treat prostate cancer. Abstract Despite major improvements in the management of advanced prostate cancer over the last 20 years, the disease remains invariably fatal, and new effective therapies are required. The development of novel hormonal agents and taxane chemotherapy has improved outcomes, although primary and acquired resistance remains problematic. Inducing cancer cell death via apoptosis has long been an attractive goal in the treatment of cancer. Apoptosis, a form of regulated cell death, is a highly controlled process, split into two main pathways (intrinsic and extrinsic), and is stimulated by a multitude of factors, including cellular and genotoxic stress. Numerous therapeutic strategies targeting the intrinsic apoptosis pathway are in clinical development, and BH3 mimetics have shown promising efficacy for hematological malignancies. Utilizing these agents for solid malignancies has proved more challenging, though efforts are ongoing. Molecular characterization and the development of predictive biomarkers is likely to be critical for patient selection, by identifying tumors with a vulnerability in the intrinsic apoptosis pathway. This review provides an up-to-date overview of cell death and apoptosis, specifically focusing on the intrinsic pathway. It summarizes the latest approaches for targeting the intrinsic apoptosis pathway with BH3 mimetics and discusses how these strategies may be leveraged to treat prostate cancer.
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Fairlie WD, Lee EF. Targeting the BCL-2-regulated apoptotic pathway for the treatment of solid cancers. Biochem Soc Trans 2021; 49:2397-2410. [PMID: 34581776 PMCID: PMC8589438 DOI: 10.1042/bst20210750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The deregulation of apoptosis is a key contributor to tumourigenesis as it can lead to the unwanted survival of rogue cells. Drugs known as the BH3-mimetics targeting the pro-survival members of the BCL-2 protein family to induce apoptosis in cancer cells have achieved clinical success for the treatment of haematological malignancies. However, despite our increasing knowledge of the pro-survival factors mediating the unwanted survival of solid tumour cells, and our growing BH3-mimetics armamentarium, the application of BH3-mimetic therapy in solid cancers has not reached its full potential. This is mainly attributed to the need to identify clinically safe, yet effective, combination strategies to target the multiple pro-survival proteins that typically mediate the survival of solid tumours. In this review, we discuss current and exciting new developments in the field that has the potential to unleash the full power of BH3-mimetic therapy to treat currently recalcitrant solid malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- W. Douglas Fairlie
- Cell Death and Survival Laboratory, Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, Victoria 3084, Australia
- Cell Death and Survival Laboratory, School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria 3086, Australia
- La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria 3086, Australia
| | - Erinna F. Lee
- Cell Death and Survival Laboratory, Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, Victoria 3084, Australia
- Cell Death and Survival Laboratory, School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria 3086, Australia
- La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria 3086, Australia
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40
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Liu W, Jin W, Zhu S, Chen Y, Liu B. Targeting regulated cell death (RCD) with small-molecule compounds in cancer therapy: A revisited review of apoptosis, autophagy-dependent cell death and necroptosis. Drug Discov Today 2021; 27:612-625. [PMID: 34718209 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2021.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 07/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Evasion of regulated cell death (RCD), mainly referring to apoptosis, autophagy-dependent cell death, necroptosis, and other subroutines, is one of the well-established hallmarks of cancer cells. Accumulating evidence has revealed several small-molecule compounds that target different subroutines of RCD in cancer therapy. In this review, we summarize key pathways of apoptosis, autophagy-dependent cell death and necroptosis in cancer, and describe small-molecule compounds that target these pathways and have potential as therapeutics. These inspiring findings light the way towards the discovery of more 'magic bullets' that could work individually or cooperatively to target precisely the three RCD subroutines and so improve cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center and Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Wenke Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center and Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Shiou Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center and Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center and Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Bo Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center and Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
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Hao Z, Sekkath Veedu J. Current Strategies for Extensive Stage Small Cell Lung Cancer Beyond First-line Therapy. Clin Lung Cancer 2021; 23:14-20. [PMID: 34656433 DOI: 10.1016/j.cllc.2021.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Revised: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Extensive stage small cell lung cancer carries extremely poor prognosis and adding immune checkpoint inhibitor to platinum etoposide combination in first line only improved outcomes modestly. Once disease recurs, treatment response is only transient in nature. Various strategies that are being explored include dual checkpoint blockade, BiTE and CAR-T cell approaches. Immune checkpoint inhibitors are being combined with PARP inhibitors. Other approaches currently being investigated include liposomal irinotecan and combining known active agents for SCLC in relapsed setting such as newly approved lurbinectedin with doxorubicin, paclitaxel, irinotecan or topotecan with ATR inhibitor (Berzosertib). Temozolomide has also been tested in combination with a Parp inhibitor. New antibody or small molecule drug conjugates are being actively investigated, so is a biomarker based approach. Better understanding of small cell lung cancer disease biology via high through-put genomic, proteomic and methylation profiling offer glimpse of hope in our efforts to contain this deadly disease. A table of representative molecular targets under investigation is provided in the end.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhonglin Hao
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Markey Cancer Center, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington KY.
| | - Janeesh Sekkath Veedu
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Markey Cancer Center, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington KY
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42
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Weidle UH, Nopora A. MicroRNAs Involved in Small-cell Lung Cancer as Possible Agents for Treatment and Identification of New Targets. Cancer Genomics Proteomics 2021; 18:591-603. [PMID: 34479913 DOI: 10.21873/cgp.20283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Small-cell lung cancer, a neuro-endocrine type of lung cancers, responds very well to chemotherapy-based agents. However, a high frequency of relapse due to adaptive resistance is observed. Immunotherapy-based treatments with checkpoint inhibitors has resulted in improvement of treatment but the responses are not as impressive as in other types of tumor. Therefore, identification of new targets and treatment modalities is an important issue. After searching the literature, we identified eight down-regulated microRNAs involved in radiation- and chemotherapy-induced resistance, as well as three up-regulated and four down-regulated miRNAs with impacts on proliferation, invasion and apoptosis of small-cell lung cancer cells in vitro. Furthermore, one up-regulated and four down-regulated microRNAs with in vivo activity in SCLC cell xenografts were identified. The identified microRNAs are candidates for inhibition or reconstitution therapy. The corresponding targets are candidates for inhibition or functional reconstitution with antibody-based moieties or small molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrich H Weidle
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Penzberg, Germany
| | - Adam Nopora
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Penzberg, Germany
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43
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Park D, Anisuzzaman ASM, Magis AT, Chen G, Xie M, Zhang G, Behera M, Sica GL, Ramalingam SS, Owonikoko TK, Deng X. Discovery of Small Molecule Bak Activator for Lung Cancer Therapy. Theranostics 2021; 11:8500-8516. [PMID: 34373755 PMCID: PMC8344021 DOI: 10.7150/thno.60349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Rationale: Bak is a major proapoptotic Bcl2 family member and a required molecule for apoptotic cell death. High levels of endogenous Bak were observed in both small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell lines. Increased Bak expression was correlated with poor prognosis of NSCLC patients, suggesting that Bak protein is an attractive target for lung cancer therapy. The BH3 domain functions as death domain and is required for Bak to initiate apoptotic cell death. Thus, the BH3 domain is attractive target for discovery of Bak agonist. Methods: The BH3 death domain binding pocket (aa75-88) of Bak was chosen as a docking site for screening of small molecule Bak activators using the UCSF DOCK 6.1 program suite and the NCI chemical library (300,000 small molecules) database. The top 500 compounds determined to have the highest affinity for the BH3 domain were obtained from the NCI and tested for cytotoxicity for further screening. We identified a small molecule Bak activator BKA-073 as the lead compound. The binding affinity of BKA-073 with Bak protein was analyzed by isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) assay. BKA-073-mediated Bak activation via oligomerization was analyzed by a cross-linking with Bis (maleimido) hexane (BMH). Sensitivity of BKA-073 to lung cancer cells in vitro was evaluated by dynamic BH3 profiling (DBP) and apoptotic cell death assay. The potency of BKA-073 alone or in combination with radiotherapy or Bcl2 inhibitor was evaluated in animal models. Results: We found that BKA-073 binds Bak at BH3 domain with high affinity and selectivity. BKA-073/Bak binding promotes Bak oligomerization and mitochondrial priming that activates its proapoptotic function. BKA-073 potently suppresses tumor growth without significant normal tissue toxicity in small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and NSCLC xenografts, patient-derived xenografts, and genetically engineered mouse models of mutant KRAS-driven cancer. Bak accumulates in radioresistant lung cancer cells and BKA-073 reverses radioresistance. Combination of BKA-073 with Bcl-2 inhibitor venetoclax exhibits strong synergy against lung cancer in vivo. Conclusions: Development of small molecule Bak activator may provide a new class of anticancer agents to treat lung cancer.
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Dalton KM, Krytska K, Lochmann TL, Sano R, Casey C, D'Aulerio A, Khan QA, Crowther GS, Coon C, Cai J, Jacob S, Kurupi R, Hu B, Dozmorov M, Greninger P, Souers AJ, Benes CH, Mossé YP, Faber AC. Venetoclax-based Rational Combinations are Effective in Models of MYCN-amplified Neuroblastoma. Mol Cancer Ther 2021; 20:1400-1411. [PMID: 34088831 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-20-0710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Venetoclax is a small molecule inhibitor of the prosurvival protein BCL-2 that has gained market approval in BCL-2-dependent hematologic cancers including chronic lymphocytic leukemia and acute myeloid leukemia. Neuroblastoma is a heterogenous pediatric cancer with a 5-year survival rate of less than 50% for high-risk patients, which includes nearly all cases with amplified MYCN We previously demonstrated that venetoclax is active in MYCN-amplified neuroblastoma but has limited single-agent activity in most models, presumably the result of other pro-survival BCL-2 family protein expression or insufficient prodeath protein mobilization. As the relative tolerability of venetoclax makes it amenable to combining with other therapies, we evaluated the sensitivity of MYCN-amplified neuroblastoma models to rational combinations of venetoclax with agents that have both mechanistic complementarity and active clinical programs. First, the MDM2 inhibitor NVP-CGM097 increases the prodeath BH3-only protein NOXA to sensitize p53-wild-type, MYCN-amplified neuroblastomas to venetoclax. Second, the MCL-1 inhibitor S63845 sensitizes MYCN-amplified neuroblastoma through neutralization of MCL-1, inducing synergistic cell killing when combined with venetoclax. Finally, the standard-of-care drug cocktail cyclophosphamide and topotecan reduces the apoptotic threshold of neuroblastoma, thus setting the stage for robust combination efficacy with venetoclax. In all cases, these rational combinations translated to in vivo tumor regressions in MYCN-amplified patient-derived xenograft models. Venetoclax is currently being evaluated in pediatric patients in the clinic, including neuroblastoma (NCT03236857). Although establishment of safety is still ongoing, the data disclosed herein indicate rational and clinically actionable combination strategies that could potentiate the activity of venetoclax in patients with amplified MYCN with neuroblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krista M Dalton
- Philips Institute for Oral Health Research, VCU School of Dentistry and Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Kateryna Krytska
- Division of Oncology and Center for Childhood Cancer Research, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Timothy L Lochmann
- Philips Institute for Oral Health Research, VCU School of Dentistry and Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Renata Sano
- Division of Oncology and Center for Childhood Cancer Research, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Pharmacyclics, an Abbvie company, Sunnyvale, California
| | - Colleen Casey
- Division of Oncology and Center for Childhood Cancer Research, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Alessia D'Aulerio
- Division of Oncology and Center for Childhood Cancer Research, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Qasim A Khan
- Philips Institute for Oral Health Research, VCU School of Dentistry and Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Giovanna Stein Crowther
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, Massachusetts
| | - Colin Coon
- Philips Institute for Oral Health Research, VCU School of Dentistry and Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Jinyang Cai
- Philips Institute for Oral Health Research, VCU School of Dentistry and Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Sheeba Jacob
- Philips Institute for Oral Health Research, VCU School of Dentistry and Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Richard Kurupi
- Philips Institute for Oral Health Research, VCU School of Dentistry and Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Bin Hu
- Department of Pathology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Mikhail Dozmorov
- Department of Biostatistics, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Patricia Greninger
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, Massachusetts
| | | | - Cyril H Benes
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, Massachusetts
| | - Yael P Mossé
- Division of Oncology and Center for Childhood Cancer Research, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Anthony C Faber
- Philips Institute for Oral Health Research, VCU School of Dentistry and Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia.
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Wang WZ, Shilo K, Amann JM, Shulman A, Hojjat-Farsangi M, Mellstedt H, Schultz J, Croce CM, Carbone DP. Predicting ROR1/BCL2 combination targeted therapy of small cell carcinoma of the lung. Cell Death Dis 2021; 12:577. [PMID: 34088900 PMCID: PMC8178315 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-021-03855-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) remains a deadly form of cancer, with a 5-year survival rate of less than 10 percent, necessitating novel therapies. Receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1 (ROR1) is an oncofetal protein that is emerging as a therapeutic target and is co-expressed with BCL2 in multiple tumor types due to microRNA coregulation. We hypothesize that ROR1-targeted therapy is effective in small cell lung cancer and synergizes with therapeutic BCL2 inhibition. Tissue microarrays (TMAs) and formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) SCLC patient samples were utilized to determine the prevalence of ROR1 and BCL2 expression in SCLC. Eight SCLC-derived cell lines were used to determine the antitumor activity of a small molecule ROR1 inhibitor (KAN0441571C) alone and in combination with the BCL2 inhibitor venetoclax. The Chou-Talalay method was utilized to determine synergy with the drug combination. ROR1 and BCL2 protein expression was identified in 93% (52/56) and 86% (48/56) of SCLC patient samples, respectively. Similarly, ROR1 and BCL2 were shown by qRT-PCR to have elevated expression in 79% (22/28) and 100% (28/28) of SCLC patient samples, respectively. KAN0441571C displayed efficacy in 8 SCLC cell lines, with an IC50 of 500 nM or less. Synergy as defined by a combination index of <1 via the Chou-Talalay method between KAN0441571C and venetoclax was demonstrated in 8 SCLC cell lines. We have shown that ROR1 inhibition is synergistic with BCL2 inhibition in SCLC models and shows promise as a novel therapeutic target in SCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walter Z Wang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA. .,The Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
| | - Konstantin Shilo
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Joseph M Amann
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.,The Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Alyssa Shulman
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.,The Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | | | - Håkan Mellstedt
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, 17177, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Carlo M Croce
- The Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.,Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - David P Carbone
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA. .,The Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
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Unmasking BCL-2 Addiction in Synovial Sarcoma by Overcoming Low NOXA. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13102310. [PMID: 34065859 PMCID: PMC8150384 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13102310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Synovial sarcoma is a soft-tissue sarcoma that lacks effective systemic therapy and carries poor prognosis due to frequent late local recurrence and metastases. The cancer is known to be driven in part by increased expression of the pro-survival protein BCL-2. Surprisingly, synovial sarcoma proved resistant to BCL-2 inhibitors in pre-clinical trials. We identified increased activity of a second pro-survival protein, MCL-1, as responsible for this resistance. We showed that co-targeting both BCL-2 and MCL-1 proves to be an effective therapeutic approach both in cell culture and animal models of synovial sarcoma, supporting translation into clinical trials. Abstract Synovial sarcoma (SS) is frequently diagnosed in teenagers and young adults and continues to be treated with polychemotherapy with variable success. The SS18-SSX gene fusion is pathognomonic for the disease, and high expression of the anti-apoptotic BCL-2 pathologically supports the diagnosis. As the oncogenic SS18-SSX fusion gene itself is not druggable, BCL-2 inhibitor-based therapies are an appealing therapeutic opportunity. Venetoclax, an FDA-approved BCL-2 inhibitor that is revolutionizing care in some BCL-2-expressing hematological cancers, affords an intriguing therapeutic possibility to treat SS. In addition, there are now dozens of venetoclax-based combination therapies in clinical trials in hematological cancers, attributing to the limited toxicity of venetoclax. However, preclinical studies of venetoclax in SS have demonstrated an unexpected ineffectiveness. In this study, we analyzed the response of SS to venetoclax and the underlying BCL-2 family biology in an effort to understand venetoclax treatment failure and find a therapeutic strategy to sensitize SS to venetoclax. We found remarkably depressed levels of the endogenous MCL-1 inhibitor, NOXA, in SS compared to other sarcomas. Expressing NOXA led to sensitization to venetoclax, as did the addition of the MCL-1 BH3 mimetic, S63845. Importantly, the venetoclax/S63845 combination induced tumor regressions in SS patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models. As a very close analog of S63845 (S64315) is now in clinical trials with venetoclax in AML (NCT03672695), the combination of MCL-1 BH3 mimetics and venetoclax should be considered for SS patients as a new therapy.
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47
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Senichkin VV, Pervushin NV, Zuev AP, Zhivotovsky B, Kopeina GS. Targeting Bcl-2 Family Proteins: What, Where, When? BIOCHEMISTRY (MOSCOW) 2021; 85:1210-1226. [PMID: 33202206 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297920100090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Proteins of the Bcl-2 family are known as regulators of apoptosis, one of the most studied forms of programmed cell death. The Bcl-2 protein family is represented by both pro- and antiapoptotic members. Antiapoptotic proteins are often exploited by tumor cells to avoid their death, thus playing an important role in carcinogenesis and in acquisition of resistance to various therapeutic agents. Therefore, antiapoptotic proteins represent attractive targets for cancer therapy. A detailed investigation of interactions between Bcl-2 family proteins resulted in the development of highly selective inhibitors of individual antiapoptotic members. These agents are currently being actively studied at the preclinical and clinical stages and represent a promising therapeutic strategy, which is highlighted by approval of venetoclax, a selective inhibitor of Bcl-2, for medical use. Meanwhile, inhibition of antiapoptotic Bcl-2 family proteins has significant therapeutic potential that is yet to be revealed. In the coming era of precision medicine, a detailed study of the mechanisms responsible for the sensitivity or resistance of tumor cells to various therapeutic agents, as well as the search for the most effective combinations, is of great importance. Here, we discuss mechanisms of how the Bcl-2 family proteins function, principles of their inhibition by small molecules, success of this approach in cancer therapy, and, eventually, biochemical features that can be exploited to improve the use of Bcl-2 family inhibitors as anticancer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- V V Senichkin
- Faculty of Basic Medicine, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, 119192, Russia
| | - N V Pervushin
- Faculty of Basic Medicine, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, 119192, Russia
| | - A P Zuev
- Faculty of Basic Medicine, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, 119192, Russia
| | - B Zhivotovsky
- Faculty of Basic Medicine, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, 119192, Russia.,Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, 171 77, Sweden
| | - G S Kopeina
- Faculty of Basic Medicine, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, 119192, Russia.
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Gay CM, Stewart CA, Park EM, Diao L, Groves SM, Heeke S, Nabet BY, Fujimoto J, Solis LM, Lu W, Xi Y, Cardnell RJ, Wang Q, Fabbri G, Cargill KR, Vokes NI, Ramkumar K, Zhang B, Della Corte CM, Robson P, Swisher SG, Roth JA, Glisson BS, Shames DS, Wistuba II, Wang J, Quaranta V, Minna J, Heymach JV, Byers LA. Patterns of transcription factor programs and immune pathway activation define four major subtypes of SCLC with distinct therapeutic vulnerabilities. Cancer Cell 2021; 39:346-360.e7. [PMID: 33482121 PMCID: PMC8143037 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2020.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 396] [Impact Index Per Article: 132.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Despite molecular and clinical heterogeneity, small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is treated as a single entity with predictably poor results. Using tumor expression data and non-negative matrix factorization, we identify four SCLC subtypes defined largely by differential expression of transcription factors ASCL1, NEUROD1, and POU2F3 or low expression of all three transcription factor signatures accompanied by an Inflamed gene signature (SCLC-A, N, P, and I, respectively). SCLC-I experiences the greatest benefit from the addition of immunotherapy to chemotherapy, while the other subtypes each have distinct vulnerabilities, including to inhibitors of PARP, Aurora kinases, or BCL-2. Cisplatin treatment of SCLC-A patient-derived xenografts induces intratumoral shifts toward SCLC-I, supporting subtype switching as a mechanism of acquired platinum resistance. We propose that matching baseline tumor subtype to therapy, as well as manipulating subtype switching on therapy, may enhance depth and duration of response for SCLC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carl M Gay
- Department of Thoracic/Head & Neck Medical Oncology, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - C Allison Stewart
- Department of Thoracic/Head & Neck Medical Oncology, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Elizabeth M Park
- Department of Thoracic/Head & Neck Medical Oncology, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Lixia Diao
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Sarah M Groves
- Department of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Simon Heeke
- Department of Thoracic/Head & Neck Medical Oncology, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Barzin Y Nabet
- Department of Oncology Biomarker Development, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco CA, USA
| | - Junya Fujimoto
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Luisa M Solis
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Wei Lu
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yuanxin Xi
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Robert J Cardnell
- Department of Thoracic/Head & Neck Medical Oncology, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Kasey R Cargill
- Department of Thoracic/Head & Neck Medical Oncology, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Natalie I Vokes
- Department of Thoracic/Head & Neck Medical Oncology, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Kavya Ramkumar
- Department of Thoracic/Head & Neck Medical Oncology, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Bingnan Zhang
- Department of Thoracic/Head & Neck Medical Oncology, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Carminia M Della Corte
- Department of Precision Medicine, Oncology Division, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Paul Robson
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Stephen G Swisher
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jack A Roth
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Bonnie S Glisson
- Department of Thoracic/Head & Neck Medical Oncology, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - David S Shames
- Department of Oncology Biomarker Development, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco CA, USA
| | - Ignacio I Wistuba
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Vito Quaranta
- Department of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - John Minna
- Department of Internal Medicine and Simmons Cancer Center, the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - John V Heymach
- Department of Thoracic/Head & Neck Medical Oncology, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Lauren Averett Byers
- Department of Thoracic/Head & Neck Medical Oncology, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
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Abstract
Small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) represents about 15% of all lung cancers and is marked by an exceptionally high proliferative rate, strong predilection for early metastasis and poor prognosis. SCLC is strongly associated with exposure to tobacco carcinogens. Most patients have metastatic disease at diagnosis, with only one-third having earlier-stage disease that is amenable to potentially curative multimodality therapy. Genomic profiling of SCLC reveals extensive chromosomal rearrangements and a high mutation burden, almost always including functional inactivation of the tumour suppressor genes TP53 and RB1. Analyses of both human SCLC and murine models have defined subtypes of disease based on the relative expression of dominant transcriptional regulators and have also revealed substantial intratumoural heterogeneity. Aspects of this heterogeneity have been implicated in tumour evolution, metastasis and acquired therapeutic resistance. Although clinical progress in SCLC treatment has been notoriously slow, a better understanding of the biology of disease has uncovered novel vulnerabilities that might be amenable to targeted therapeutic approaches. The recent introduction of immune checkpoint blockade into the treatment of patients with SCLC is offering new hope, with a small subset of patients deriving prolonged benefit. Strategies to direct targeted therapies to those patients who are most likely to respond and to extend the durable benefit of effective antitumour immunity to a greater fraction of patients are urgently needed and are now being actively explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles M Rudin
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
- Druckenmiller Center for Lung Cancer Research, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Elisabeth Brambilla
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Corinne Faivre-Finn
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The Christie Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
- Division of Cancer Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Julien Sage
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
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50
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Hann CL. Small Cell Lung Cancer: Biology Advances. Lung Cancer 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-74028-3_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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