1
|
Zhang S, Jiang Y, Zhou L, Xu J, Zhang G, Shen L, Xu Y. Genomic Characteristics and Its Therapeutic Implications in Breast Cancer Patients with Detectable Molecular Residual Disease. Cancer Res Treat 2024; 56:538-548. [PMID: 38062709 PMCID: PMC11016634 DOI: 10.4143/crt.2023.1059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Molecular residual disease (MRD) is the main cause of postoperative recurrence of breast cancer. However, the baseline tumor genomic characteristics and therapeutic implications of breast cancer patients with detectable MRD after surgery are still unknown. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this study, we enrolled 80 patients with breast cancer who underwent next-generation sequencing-based genetic testing of 1,021 cancer-related genes performed on baseline tumor and postoperative plasma, among which 18 patients had detectable MRD after surgery. RESULTS Baseline clinical characteristics found that patients with higher clinical stages were more likely to have detectable MRD. Analysis of single nucleotide variations and small insertions/deletions in baseline tumors showed that somatic mutations in MAP3K1, ATM, FLT1, GNAS, POLD1, SPEN, and WWP2 were significantly enriched in patients with detectable MRD. Oncogenic signaling pathway analysis revealed that alteration of the Cell cycle pathway was more likely to occur in patients with detectable MRD (p=0.012). Mutational signature analysis showed that defective DNA mismatch repair and activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID) mediated somatic hypermutation (SHM) were associated with detectable MRD. According to the OncoKB database, 77.8% (14/18) of patients with detectable MRD had U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved mutational biomarkers and targeted therapy. CONCLUSION Our study reports genomic characteristics of breast cancer patients with detectable MRD. The cell cycle pathway, defective DNA mismatch repair, and AID-mediated SHM were found to be the possible causes of detectable MRD. We also found the vast majority of patients with detectable MRD have the opportunity to access targeted therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shu Zhang
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yan Jiang
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Lu Zhou
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Xu
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Gang Zhang
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Lu Shen
- Geneplus-Beijing, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Xu
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Hammadi AH, Ali SH. Mutation of PTEN: Loss and Likelihood of Being a Non-responder to Trastuzumab in a Sample of Iraqi Her2+ Breast Cancer Patients. Cureus 2024; 16:e54765. [PMID: 38524002 PMCID: PMC10961105 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.54765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION PTEN controls upstream PI3K relatives, such as AKT. PTEN gene mutations have been documented to affect outcomes in main or distant malignancies, including breast cancer (BC). PTEN gene deletions are common in a variety of human cancers. A key factor in the response to this kind of therapy is genetic diversity. The purpose of this research is to determine whether a PTEN loss mutation influences a patient's propensity to not respond to trastuzumab (TRS) in cases of Her2+ BC. METHODS Diwaniya Teaching Hospital's oncology ward provided 60 patients with Her2+ BC who had been on TRS for at least 12 months for this study. Patients were split in half using the RECIST criteria for evaluating responses to therapy in solid tumors: responders and non-responders. A PTEN polyclonal primary antibody was used for the detection of PTEN in breast tissue in the current study. RESULTS This research employs a rating system based on eight specimens (26.67%) among non-responsive women who demonstrated PTEN loss compared with one specimen (3.33%) among responsive women. Statistically, PTEN loss varied significantly between the responsive and non-responsive groups. Loss of PTEN was also not linked to shifts in creatine kinase-myocardial band (CK-MB), troponin T (TnT), or any other biomarker, or troponin I (Tn1) at baseline or after 12 months of TRS therapy. These results give us important information about how PTEN deletion mutations might work as a predictor for TRS response in women with Her2+ BC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alyaa H Hammadi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, IRQ
| | - Shatha H Ali
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, College of Pharmacy, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, IRQ
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Sengodan SK, Hu X, Peddibhotla V, Balamurugan K, Mitrophanov AY, McKennett L, Kharat SS, Sanawar R, Singh VK, Albaugh ME, Burkett SS, Zhao Y, Tran B, Malys T, Sterneck E, De S, Sharan SK. Mismatch repair protein MLH1 suppresses replicative stress in BRCA2-deficient breast tumors. J Clin Invest 2024; 134:e173718. [PMID: 38271119 PMCID: PMC10977984 DOI: 10.1172/jci173718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Loss of BRCA2 (breast cancer 2) is lethal for normal cells. Yet it remains poorly understood how, in BRCA2 mutation carriers, cells undergoing loss of heterozygosity overcome the lethality and undergo tissue-specific neoplastic transformation. Here, we identified mismatch repair gene mutL homolog 1 (MLH1) as a genetic interactor of BRCA2 whose overexpression supports the viability of Brca2-null cells. Mechanistically, we showed that MLH1 interacts with Flap endonuclease 1 (FEN1) and competes to process the RNA flaps of Okazaki fragments. Together, they restrained the DNA2 nuclease activity on the reversed forks of lagging strands, leading to replication fork (RF) stability in BRCA2-deficient cells. In these cells, MLH1 also attenuated R-loops, allowing the progression of stable RFs, which suppressed genomic instability and supported cell viability. We demonstrated the significance of their genetic interaction by the lethality of Brca2-mutant mice and inhibition of Brca2-deficient tumor growth in mice by Mlh1 loss. Furthermore, we described estrogen as inducing MLH1 expression through estrogen receptor α (ERα), which might explain why the majority of BRCA2 mutation carriers develop ER-positive breast cancer. Taken together, our findings reveal a role of MLH1 in relieving replicative stress and show how it may contribute to the establishment of BRCA2-deficient breast tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Satheesh K. Sengodan
- Mouse Cancer Genetics Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland USA
| | - Xiaoju Hu
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Vaishnavi Peddibhotla
- Mouse Cancer Genetics Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland USA
| | - Kuppusamy Balamurugan
- Laboratory of Cell and Developmental Signaling, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland, USA
| | - Alexander Y. Mitrophanov
- Statistical Consulting and Scientific Programming, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, NIH, Frederick, Maryland, USA
| | - Lois McKennett
- Laboratory Animal Sciences Program, Leidos Biomedical Research Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland, USA
| | - Suhas S. Kharat
- Mouse Cancer Genetics Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland USA
| | - Rahul Sanawar
- Department of Cell Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Vinod Kumar Singh
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Mary E. Albaugh
- Mouse Cancer Genetics Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland USA
- Laboratory Animal Sciences Program, Leidos Biomedical Research Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland, USA
| | - Sandra S. Burkett
- Mouse Cancer Genetics Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland USA
| | - Yongmei Zhao
- NCI Advanced Technology Research Facility, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland, USA
| | - Bao Tran
- NCI Advanced Technology Research Facility, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland, USA
| | - Tyler Malys
- Statistical Consulting and Scientific Programming, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, NIH, Frederick, Maryland, USA
| | - Esta Sterneck
- Laboratory of Cell and Developmental Signaling, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland, USA
| | - Subhajyoti De
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Shyam K. Sharan
- Mouse Cancer Genetics Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ranghiero A, Frascarelli C, Cursano G, Pescia C, Ivanova M, Vacirca D, Rappa A, Taormina SV, Barberis M, Fusco N, Rocco EG, Venetis K. Circulating tumour DNA testing in metastatic breast cancer: Integration with tissue testing. Cytopathology 2023; 34:519-529. [PMID: 37640801 DOI: 10.1111/cyt.13295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer biomarker profiling predominantly relies on tissue testing (surgical and/or biopsy samples). However, the field of liquid biopsy, particularly the analysis of circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA), has witnessed remarkable progress and continues to evolve rapidly. The incorporation of ctDNA-based testing into clinical practice is creating new opportunities for patients with metastatic breast cancer (MBC). ctDNA offers advantages over conventional tissue analyses, as it reflects tumour heterogeneity and enables multiple serial biopsies in a minimally invasive manner. Thus, it serves as a valuable complement to standard tumour tissues and, in certain instances, may even present a potential alternative approach. In the context of MBC, ctDNA testing proves highly informative in the detection of disease progression, monitoring treatment response, assessing actionable biomarkers, and identifying mechanisms of resistance. Nevertheless, ctDNA does exhibit inherent limitations, including its generally low abundance, necessitating timely blood samplings and rigorous management of the pre-analytical phase. The development of highly sensitive assays and robust bioinformatic tools has paved the way for reliable ctDNA analyses. The time has now come to establish how ctDNA and tissue analyses can be effectively integrated into the diagnostic workflow of MBC to provide patients with the most comprehensive and accurate profiling. In this manuscript, we comprehensively analyse the current methodologies employed in ctDNA analysis and explore the potential benefits arising from the integration of tissue and ctDNA testing for patients diagnosed with MBC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Ranghiero
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Frascarelli
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia Cursano
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Carlo Pescia
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- School of Pathology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Mariia Ivanova
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Davide Vacirca
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandra Rappa
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Massimo Barberis
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Nicola Fusco
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Guerini Rocco
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
dos Santos JTT, Rosa RCA, Pereira ALE, Assunção-Luiz AV, Bacalá BT, Ferraz VEDF, Flória M. Risk for Hereditary Neoplastic Syndromes in Women with Mismatch Repair-Proficient Endometrial Cancer. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1999. [PMID: 38002942 PMCID: PMC10671603 DOI: 10.3390/genes14111999] [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: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometrial cancer (EC) is a prevalent malignancy in women, and those who are proficient in the DNA mismatch repair (pMMR) pathway may have a family history (FH) that meets the criteria for a hereditary neoplastic condition (HNS). This study aimed to estimate the risk of HNS in women with pMMR endometrial tumors by analyzing their FH. To achieve this, we collaborated with a primary study and collected FH information by telephone. The final sample comprised 42 women who responded to the Primary Screening Questionnaire. Their family pedigrees were drawn and categorized according to internationally standardized criteria for the risk of HNS. Results showed that 26 women (61%) were found to be at risk for HNS, with Bethesda criteria being met by 23%, Amsterdam criteria by 15%, and 4% met the attenuated familial adenomatous polyposis criteria. Our results emphasize the importance of FH and the need to encourage healthcare professionals to collect and document FH more frequently, even if it is self-reported. By identifying individuals with HNS, we can improve their outcomes and reduce the burden of cancer in families with a predisposition to cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Reginaldo Cruz Alves Rosa
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14040-901, SP, Brazil; (R.C.A.R.); (A.L.E.P.); (V.E.d.F.F.)
| | - Alison Luis Eburneo Pereira
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14040-901, SP, Brazil; (R.C.A.R.); (A.L.E.P.); (V.E.d.F.F.)
| | - Alan Vinicius Assunção-Luiz
- Ribeirão Preto College of Nursing, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14040-901, SP, Brazil; (J.T.T.d.S.); (A.V.A.-L.); (B.T.B.)
| | - Bruna Tavares Bacalá
- Ribeirão Preto College of Nursing, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14040-901, SP, Brazil; (J.T.T.d.S.); (A.V.A.-L.); (B.T.B.)
| | - Victor Evangelista de Faria Ferraz
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14040-901, SP, Brazil; (R.C.A.R.); (A.L.E.P.); (V.E.d.F.F.)
| | - Milena Flória
- Ribeirão Preto College of Nursing, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14040-901, SP, Brazil; (J.T.T.d.S.); (A.V.A.-L.); (B.T.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Franchina M, Pizzimenti C, Fiorentino V, Martini M, Ricciardi GRR, Silvestris N, Ieni A, Tuccari G. Low and Ultra-Low HER2 in Human Breast Cancer: An Effort to Define New Neoplastic Subtypes. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12795. [PMID: 37628975 PMCID: PMC10454084 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241612795] [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: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
HER2-low and ultra-low breast cancer (BC) have been recently proposed as new subcategories of HER2 BC, supporting a re-consideration of immunohistochemical negative scores of 0, 1+ and the 2+/in situ hybridization (ISH) negative phenotype. In the present review, we outline the criteria needed to exactly distinguish HER2-low and ultra-low BC. Recent clinical trials have demonstrated significant clinical benefits of novel HER2 directing antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) in treating these groups of tumors. In particular, trastuzumab-deruxtecan (T-Dxd), a HER2-directing ADC, has been recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration as the first targeted therapy to treat HER2-low BC. Furthermore, ongoing trials, such as the DESTINY-Breast06 trial, are currently evaluating ADCs in patients with HER2-ultra low BC. Finally, we hope that new guidelines may help to codify HER2-low and ultra-low BC, increasing our knowledge of tumor biology and improving a targetable new therapeutical treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariausilia Franchina
- Department of Human Pathology in Adult and Developmental Age “Gaetano Barresi”, Section of Pathology, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (M.F.); (V.F.); (M.M.); (N.S.); (A.I.)
| | - Cristina Pizzimenti
- Department of Biomedical, Dental, Morphological and Functional Imaging Sciences, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy;
| | - Vincenzo Fiorentino
- Department of Human Pathology in Adult and Developmental Age “Gaetano Barresi”, Section of Pathology, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (M.F.); (V.F.); (M.M.); (N.S.); (A.I.)
| | - Maurizio Martini
- Department of Human Pathology in Adult and Developmental Age “Gaetano Barresi”, Section of Pathology, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (M.F.); (V.F.); (M.M.); (N.S.); (A.I.)
| | | | - Nicola Silvestris
- Department of Human Pathology in Adult and Developmental Age “Gaetano Barresi”, Section of Pathology, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (M.F.); (V.F.); (M.M.); (N.S.); (A.I.)
| | - Antonio Ieni
- Department of Human Pathology in Adult and Developmental Age “Gaetano Barresi”, Section of Pathology, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (M.F.); (V.F.); (M.M.); (N.S.); (A.I.)
| | - Giovanni Tuccari
- Department of Human Pathology in Adult and Developmental Age “Gaetano Barresi”, Section of Pathology, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (M.F.); (V.F.); (M.M.); (N.S.); (A.I.)
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ascrizzi S, Arillotta GM, Grillone K, Caridà G, Signorelli S, Ali A, Romeo C, Tassone P, Tagliaferri P. Lynch Syndrome Biopathology and Treatment: The Potential Role of microRNAs in Clinical Practice. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3930. [PMID: 37568746 PMCID: PMC10417124 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15153930] [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: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Lynch syndrome (LS), also known as Hereditary Non-Polyposis Colorectal Cancer (HNPCC), is an autosomal dominant cancer syndrome which causes about 2-3% of cases of colorectal carcinoma. The development of LS is due to the genetic and epigenetic inactivation of genes involved in the DNA mismatch repair (MMR) system, causing an epiphenomenon known as microsatellite instability (MSI). Despite the fact that the genetics of the vast majority of MSI-positive (MSI+) cancers can be explained, the etiology of this specific subset is still poorly understood. As a possible new mechanism, it has been recently demonstrated that the overexpression of certain microRNAs (miRNAs, miRs), such as miR-155, miR-21, miR-137, can induce MSI or modulate the expression of the genes involved in LS pathogenesis. MiRNAs are small RNA molecules that regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level by playing a critical role in the modulation of key oncogenic pathways. Increasing evidence of the link between MSI and miRNAs in LS prompted a deeper investigation into the miRNome involved in these diseases. In this regard, in this study, we discuss the emerging role of miRNAs as crucial players in the onset and progression of LS as well as their potential use as disease biomarkers and therapeutic targets in the current view of precision medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Serena Ascrizzi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (S.A.); (G.M.A.); (K.G.); (G.C.); (S.S.); (A.A.); (C.R.); (P.T.)
| | - Grazia Maria Arillotta
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (S.A.); (G.M.A.); (K.G.); (G.C.); (S.S.); (A.A.); (C.R.); (P.T.)
| | - Katia Grillone
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (S.A.); (G.M.A.); (K.G.); (G.C.); (S.S.); (A.A.); (C.R.); (P.T.)
| | - Giulio Caridà
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (S.A.); (G.M.A.); (K.G.); (G.C.); (S.S.); (A.A.); (C.R.); (P.T.)
| | - Stefania Signorelli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (S.A.); (G.M.A.); (K.G.); (G.C.); (S.S.); (A.A.); (C.R.); (P.T.)
| | - Asad Ali
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (S.A.); (G.M.A.); (K.G.); (G.C.); (S.S.); (A.A.); (C.R.); (P.T.)
| | - Caterina Romeo
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (S.A.); (G.M.A.); (K.G.); (G.C.); (S.S.); (A.A.); (C.R.); (P.T.)
| | - Pierfrancesco Tassone
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (S.A.); (G.M.A.); (K.G.); (G.C.); (S.S.); (A.A.); (C.R.); (P.T.)
- Medical Oncology and Translational Medical Oncology Units, University Hospital Renato Dulbecco, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Pierosandro Tagliaferri
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (S.A.); (G.M.A.); (K.G.); (G.C.); (S.S.); (A.A.); (C.R.); (P.T.)
- Medical Oncology and Translational Medical Oncology Units, University Hospital Renato Dulbecco, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Venetis K, Sajjadi E, Peccatori FA, Guerini-Rocco E, Fusco N. Immune plasticity in pregnancy-associated breast cancer tumorigenesis. Eur J Cancer Prev 2023; 32:364-369. [PMID: 37038998 DOI: 10.1097/cej.0000000000000803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/12/2023]
Abstract
Pregnancy-associated breast cancer (PrBC) is a rare tumor that requires complex management. The coexistence of cancer and pregnancy involves several proliferative, invasive, and immune tolerance mechanisms that are shared between the two conditions. In normal pregnancy, successful fetal development is achieved through suppression of the maternal immune response toward the fetus. Similar immunosuppressive patterns during the malignant transformation supporting tumor growth, progression, and metastasis are also exhibited by tumors. An improved understanding of the immunosuppressive mechanisms and pathways underlying the immunological synergy in PrBC could lead to the identification of novel biomarkers that potentially improve patients' clinical management. In this review article, we outline some of the paramount features of immune plasticity during pregnancy, discussing the similarities shared between normal pregnancy and breast cancer in terms of immune suppression mechanisms. Emphasis is also placed on how the current knowledge of the immune milieu of these conditions may be translated into consequent therapeutic opportunities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Elham Sajjadi
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan
| | - Fedro A Peccatori
- Fertility and Procreation Unit, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, IEO European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Guerini-Rocco
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan
| | - Nicola Fusco
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Venetis K, Sajjadi E, Ivanova M, Peccatori FA, Fusco N, Guerini-Rocco E. Characterization of the immune environment in pregnancy-associated breast cancer. Future Oncol 2023. [PMID: 37376974 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2022-1321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy-associated breast cancer (PrBC) is a rare and clinically challenging condition. Specific immune mechanisms and pathways are involved in maternal-fetal tolerance and tumor-host immunoediting. The comprehension of the molecular processes underpinning this immune synergy in PrBC is needed to improve patients' clinical management. Only a few studies focused on the immune biology of PrBC and attempted to identify bona fide biomarkers. Therefore, clinically actionable information remains extremely puzzling for these patients. In this review article, we discuss the current knowledge on the immune environment of PrBC, in comparison with pregnancy-unrelated breast cancer and in the context of maternal immune changes during pregnancy. A particular emphasis is given to the actual role of potential immune-related biomarkers for PrBC clinical management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Venetis
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, 20141, Italy
| | - Elham Sajjadi
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, 20141, Italy
- Department of Oncology & Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, 20122, Italy
| | - Mariia Ivanova
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, 20141, Italy
| | - Fedro Alessandro Peccatori
- Fertility & Procreation Unit, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, 20141, Italy
| | - Nicola Fusco
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, 20141, Italy
- Department of Oncology & Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, 20122, Italy
| | - Elena Guerini-Rocco
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, 20141, Italy
- Department of Oncology & Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, 20122, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
François P, Thibaud V, Pierre VP, Marion J, Delphine B, Frederic C, Christine C, Janick S, Rosine G, Nadim F. Special features of sarcomas developed in patients with Lynch syndrome: a systematic review. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2023:104055. [PMID: 37301271 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2023.104055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Lynch syndrome (LS) is a genetic predisposition leading to colorectal and non-colorectal tumors such as endometrial, upper urinary tract, small intestine, ovarian, gastric, biliary duct cancers and glioblastoma. Though not classically associated with LS, growing literature suggests that sarcomas might develop in patients with LS. This systematic review of literature identified 44 studies (N=95) of LS patients who developed sarcomas. It seems that most sarcomas developed in patients with a germline mutation of MSH2 (57%) exhibit a dMMR (81%) or MSI (77%) phenotype, as in other LS-tumors. Although undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS), leiomyosarcoma, and liposarcoma remain the most represented histologic subtype, a higher proportion of rhabdomyosarcoma (10%, especially pleomorphic rhabdomyosarcoma) is reported. Further studies are required to better characterize this sub-population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Poumeaud François
- Department of Digestive Oncology, University Hospital of Toulouse (IUCT Rangueil Larrey), France; Department of Oncology, Toulouse Cancer Center (IUCT - Oncopole), France
| | - Valentin Thibaud
- Department of Oncology, Toulouse Cancer Center (IUCT - Oncopole), France; OncoSarc, INSERM U1037, Toulouse Cancer Research Center (CRCT), France
| | - Vande Perre Pierre
- Department of oncogenetic, Toulouse Cancer Center (IUCT - Oncopole), France
| | - Jaffrelot Marion
- Department of Digestive Oncology, University Hospital of Toulouse (IUCT Rangueil Larrey), France; Department of oncogenetic, Toulouse Cancer Center (IUCT - Oncopole), France
| | - Bonnet Delphine
- Department of oncogenetic, Toulouse Cancer Center (IUCT - Oncopole), France; Department of Internal medicine and Immunology, University Hospital of Toulouse (IUCT Rangueil Larrey), France
| | - Chibon Frederic
- OncoSarc, INSERM U1037, Toulouse Cancer Research Center (CRCT), France
| | - Chevreau Christine
- Department of Oncology, Toulouse Cancer Center (IUCT - Oncopole), France
| | - Selves Janick
- OncoSarc, INSERM U1037, Toulouse Cancer Research Center (CRCT), France; Department of Pathology, University Hospital of Toulouse ( IUCT- Oncopole) France
| | - Guimbaud Rosine
- Department of Digestive Oncology, University Hospital of Toulouse (IUCT Rangueil Larrey), France; OncoSarc, INSERM U1037, Toulouse Cancer Research Center (CRCT), France; Department of oncogenetic, Toulouse Cancer Center (IUCT - Oncopole), France
| | - Fares Nadim
- Department of Digestive Oncology, University Hospital of Toulouse (IUCT Rangueil Larrey), France; OncoSarc, INSERM U1037, Toulouse Cancer Research Center (CRCT), France.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Carsote M, Turturea IF, Turturea MR, Valea A, Nistor C, Gheorghisan-Galateanu AA. Pathogenic Insights into DNA Mismatch Repair (MMR) Genes-Proteins and Microsatellite Instability: Focus on Adrenocortical Carcinoma and Beyond. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13111867. [PMID: 37296718 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13111867] [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: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA damage repair pathways, including mismatch repair (MMR) genes, are prone to carcinoma development in certain patients. The assessment of the MMR system is widely recognized as part of strategies concerning solid tumors (defective MMR cancers), especially MMR proteins (through immunohistochemistry), and molecular assays for microsatellite instability (MSI). We aim to highlight the status of MMR genes-proteins (including MSI) in the relationship with ACC (adrenocortical carcinoma) according to current knowledge. This is a narrative review. We included PubMed-accessed, full-length English papers published between January 2012 and March 2023. We searched studies on ACC patients for whom MMR status was assessed, respectively subjects harboring MMR germline mutations, namely Lynch syndrome (LS), who were diagnosed with ACC. MMR system assessments in ACCs involve a low level of statistical evidence. Generally, there are two main types of endocrine insights: 1. the role of MMR status as a prognostic marker in different endocrine malignancies (including ACC)-which is the topic of the present work, and 2. establishing the indication of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICPIs) in selective, mostly highly aggressive, non-responsive to standard care forms upon MMR evaluation (which belongs to the larger chapter of immunotherapy in ACCs). Our one-decade, sample-case study (which, to our knowledge, it is the most comprehensive of its kind) identified 11 original articles (from 1 patient to 634 subjects per study diagnosed with either ACC or LS). We identified four studies published in 2013 and 2020 and two in 2021, three cohorts and two retrospective studies (the publication from 2013 includes a retrospective and a cohort distinct section). Among these four studies, patients already confirmed to have LS (N = 643, respective 135) were found to be associated with ACC (N = 3, respective 2), resulting in a prevalence of 0.0046%, with a respective of 1.4% being confirmed (despite not having a large amount of similar data outside these two studies). Studies on ACC patients (N = 364, respective 36 pediatric individuals, and 94 subjects with ACC) showed that 13.7% had different MMR gene anomalies, with a respective of 8.57% (non-germline mutations), while 3.2% had MMR germline mutations (N = 3/94 cases). Two case series included one family, with a respective four persons with LS, and each article introduced one case with LS-ACC. Another five case reports (between 2018 and 2021) revealed an additional five subjects (one case per paper) diagnosed with LS and ACC (female to male ratio of 4 to 1; aged between 44 and 68). Interesting genetic testing involved children with TP53-positive ACC and further MMR anomalies or an MSH2 gene-positive subject with LS with a concurrent germline RET mutation. The first report of LS-ACC referred for PD-1 blockade was published in 2018. Nevertheless, the use of ICPI in ACCs (as similarly seen in metastatic pheochromocytoma) is still limited. Pan-cancer and multi-omics analysis in adults with ACC, in order to classify the candidates for immunotherapy, had heterogeneous results, and integrating an MMR system in this larger and challenging picture is still an open issue. Whether individuals diagnosed with LS should undergo surveillance for ACC has not yet been proven. An assessment of tumor-related MMR/MSI status in ACC might be helpful. Further algorithms for diagnostics and therapy, also taking into consideration innovative biomarkers as MMR-MSI, are necessary.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mara Carsote
- Department of Endocrinology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy & C.I. Parhon National Institute of Endocrinology, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ionut Florin Turturea
- Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Cluj Emergency County Hospital, 400347 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | | | - Ana Valea
- Department of Endocrinology, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy & Clinical County Hospital, 400347 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Claudiu Nistor
- Department 4-Cardio-Thoracic Pathology, Thoracic Surgery II Discipline, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy & Thoracic Surgery Department, Dr. Carol Davila Central Emergency University Military Hospital, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ancuta-Augustina Gheorghisan-Galateanu
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, and Histology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy & Department of Endocrinology, C.I. Parhon National Institute of Endocrinology, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Venetis K, Sajjadi E, Ivanova M, Andaloro S, Pessina S, Zanetti C, Ranghiero A, Citelli G, Rossi C, Lucioni M, Malapelle U, Pagni F, Barberis M, Guerini-Rocco E, Viale G, Fusco N. The molecular landscape of breast mucoepidermoid carcinoma. Cancer Med 2023; 12:10725-10737. [PMID: 36916425 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.5754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 03/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC) of the breast is an extremely rare salivary gland-type tumor characterized by epidermoid, basaloid, intermediate, and/or mucinous cells arranged in solid and cystic patterns. Despite their triple-negative phenotype, breast MECs are generally considered low-risk malignancies but their biology is largely unexplored; therefore, guidelines for clinical management are lacking. Here, we sought to characterize the molecular landscape of breast MECs. Thirteen cases were histologically reviewed, characterized for tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), and were subjected to immunohistochemistry for programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1, clone 22C3), EGFR, and amphiregulin (AREG). Rearrangements in MAML2 and EWSR1 were investigated by fluorescent in situ hybridization. Targeted next-generation sequencing of 161 genes was performed on eight cases. Most MECs had low histological grade (n = 10, 77%), with the presence of TILs (n = 9/12; 75%) and PD-L1 combined positive score ranging from 10 to 20 (n = 4/6; 67%). All cases showed EGFR and AREG overexpression and were fusion negative. Enrichment of genetic alterations was observed in PI3K/AKT/mTOR and cell cycle regulation pathways, while only one case harbored TP53 mutations. This is the first study providing extensive molecular data on breast MECs and the largest collection of cases available to date in the literature. Breast MECs lack TP53 mutations found in high-grade forms of triple-negative breast cancers and MAML2 or EWSR1 rearrangements pathognomonic of salivary MECs. Triple-negativity and PD-L1 positivity suggest a window of opportunity for immunotherapy in these patients. The EGFR/AREG axis activation, coupled with the mutational patterns in PI3K/AKT/mTOR and cell cycle pathways warrants caution in considering MECs as low-risk neoplasms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Venetis
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Elham Sajjadi
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Mariia Ivanova
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Andaloro
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Simona Pessina
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Zanetti
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Alberto Ranghiero
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Gabriele Citelli
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Rossi
- Division of Anatomic Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Marco Lucioni
- Division of Anatomic Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | | | - Fabio Pagni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Pathology, University Milan Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Barberis
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Guerini-Rocco
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Viale
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Nicola Fusco
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Metaxas GI, Tsiambas E, Marinopoulos S, Adamopoulou M, Spyropoulou D, Falidas E, Davris D, Manaios L, Fotiades P, Mastronikoli S, Peschos D, Dimitrakakis C. DNA Mismatch Repair System Imbalances in Breast Adenocarcinoma. CANCER DIAGNOSIS & PROGNOSIS 2023; 3:169-174. [PMID: 36875308 PMCID: PMC9949550 DOI: 10.21873/cdp.10197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
DNA mismatch repair system (MMR) is considered a leading genetic mechanism in stabilizing DNA structure and maintaining its function. DNA MMR is a highly conserved system in bacteria, prokaryotic, and eukaryotic cells, and provides the highest protection to DNA by repairing micro-structural alterations. DNA MMR proteins are involved in the detection and repair of intra-nucleotide base-to-base errors inside the complementary DNA strand recognizing the recently synthesized strand from the parental template. During DNA replication, a spectrum of errors including base insertion, deletion, and miss-incorporation negatively affect the molecule's structure and its functional stability. A broad spectrum of genomic alterations such as promoter hyper methylation, mutation, and loss of heterozygosity (LOH) in MMR genes including predominantly hMLH1, hMSH2, hMSH3, hMSH6, hPMS1, and hPMS2 lead to their loss of base-to-base error repairing procedure. Microsatellite instability (MSI) refers to the DNA MMR gene alterations that are observed in a variety of malignancies of different histological origins. In the current review, we present the role of DNA MMR deficiency in breast adenocarcinoma, a leading cancer-based cause of death in females worldwide.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Georgios I Metaxas
- Breast Unit, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Alexandra Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Spyridon Marinopoulos
- Breast Unit, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Alexandra Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Adamopoulou
- Department of Education, Molecular Lab, Deere American College of Greece (AGC), Athens, Greece
| | - Despoina Spyropoulou
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | | | - Dimitrios Davris
- Department of Surgery, Halkida General Hospital, Halkida, Greece
| | - Loukas Manaios
- Department of Surgery, Bioclinic Medical Center, Athens, Greece
| | | | | | - Dimitrios Peschos
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Constantine Dimitrakakis
- Breast Unit, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Alexandra Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Breast Cancer Pathology in the Era of Genomics. Hematol Oncol Clin North Am 2023; 37:33-50. [PMID: 36435613 DOI: 10.1016/j.hoc.2022.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The era of genomic medicine provides an opportunity for pathologists to offer greater detail about the molecular underpinnings of a patient's cancer and thereby more targeted therapeutic options. In this review article, the role of genomics in breast cancer pathology is discussed, as it pertains to risk management, classification of special tumor types, predictive and prognostic testing, identification of actionable therapeutic targets, and monitoring for disease progression or development of treatment resistance.
Collapse
|
15
|
Fusco N, Malapelle U, Criscitiello C. Editorial: Diagnosis and Treatment of Breast Cancer in 2022: The Rise of Novel Molecular Biomarkers. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 9:1117323. [PMID: 36660432 PMCID: PMC9845888 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.1117323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Fusco
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy,Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy,*Correspondence: Nicola Fusco, ; Umberto Malapelle, ; Carmen Criscitiello,
| | - Umberto Malapelle
- Department of Public Health, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy,*Correspondence: Nicola Fusco, ; Umberto Malapelle, ; Carmen Criscitiello,
| | - Carmen Criscitiello
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy,Division of Early Drug Development for Innovative Therapy, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, Milan, Italy,*Correspondence: Nicola Fusco, ; Umberto Malapelle, ; Carmen Criscitiello,
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Li JJX, Tse GM. Marker assessments in ER-positive breast cancers: old markers, new applications? Histopathology 2023; 82:218-231. [PMID: 35945680 DOI: 10.1111/his.14767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Evaluation of oestrogen receptor (ER) expression by immunostaining is essential in the pathological assessment of breast cancer. Its expression is intercorrelated with clinicopathological features, molecular typing, and treatment selection. The development of novel therapeutic agents related to ER status, the recent ASCO introduction of an ER-low positive category of breast cancers, and the ever-increasing plethora of diagnostic and theragnostic markers call for a timely update. In this article we aim to review the clinicopathological features of ER-positive breast cancers, with an emphasis on ER-low positive breast cancers, and a focus on updating the (i) assessment, reporting and interpretation of ER immunohistochemical (IHC) staining, (ii) correlations of ER status with other diagnostic and theragnostic markers, and (iii) implications for treatment selection and response. In the face of the developments in IHC and molecular techniques and targeted therapy, ER immunostaining is still expected to remain as the core component of prognostic and theragnostic assessment of breast cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joshua J X Li
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Gary M Tse
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Ivanova M, Venetis K, Guerini-Rocco E, Bottiglieri L, Mastropasqua MG, Garrone O, Fusco N, Ghidini M. HER2 in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer: Pathology, Somatic Alterations, and Perspectives for Novel Therapeutic Schemes. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:1403. [PMID: 36143438 PMCID: PMC9502498 DOI: 10.3390/life12091403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
HER2 is an emerging biomarker in colorectal cancer (CRC). This oncogene plays an essential role in regulating cell proliferation, differentiation, migration, and, more in general, tumorigenesis and tumor progression. The most frequent types of HER2 alterations in CRC include gene amplification and missense mutations in 7-8% of CRC, often being mirrored by HER2 protein overexpression, representing founder events in solid tumors, including CRC. There are currently no approved HER2-targeted therapy guidelines for CRC; however, several studies have shown that HER2 can be effectively targeted in meta-static CRC settings. In this review, we discuss the current knowledge of HER2 testing in CRC and the immediate future perspectives for HER2 targeting in the metastatic setting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariia Ivanova
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, University of Milan, Via Giuseppe Ripamonti 435, 20141 Milan, Italy
| | - Konstantinos Venetis
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, University of Milan, Via Giuseppe Ripamonti 435, 20141 Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Guerini-Rocco
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, University of Milan, Via Giuseppe Ripamonti 435, 20141 Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Bottiglieri
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, University of Milan, Via Giuseppe Ripamonti 435, 20141 Milan, Italy
| | - Mauro Giuseppe Mastropasqua
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, School of Medicine, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Piazza G Cesare, 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Ornella Garrone
- Medical Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Nicola Fusco
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, University of Milan, Via Giuseppe Ripamonti 435, 20141 Milan, Italy
| | - Michele Ghidini
- Medical Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Microsatellite Instability: From the Implementation of the Detection to a Prognostic and Predictive Role in Cancers. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158726. [PMID: 35955855 PMCID: PMC9369169 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Microsatellite instability (MSI) has been identified in several tumors arising from either germline or somatic aberration. The presence of MSI in cancer predicts the sensitivity to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), particularly PD1/PD-L1 inhibitors. To date, the predictive role of MSI is currently used in the selection of colorectal cancer patients for immunotherapy; moreover, the expansion of clinical trials into other cancer types may elucidate the predictive value of MSI for non-colorectal tumors. In clinical practice, several assays are used for MSI testing, including immunohistochemistry (IHC), polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and next-generation sequencing (NGS). In this review, we provide an overview of MSI in various cancer types, highlighting its potential predictive/prognostic role and the clinical trials performed. Finally, we focus on the comparison data between the different assays used to detect MSI in clinical practice.
Collapse
|
19
|
Venetis K, Crimini E, Sajjadi E, Corti C, Guerini-Rocco E, Viale G, Curigliano G, Criscitiello C, Fusco N. HER2 Low, Ultra-low, and Novel Complementary Biomarkers: Expanding the Spectrum of HER2 Positivity in Breast Cancer. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:834651. [PMID: 35372498 PMCID: PMC8965450 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.834651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
HER2 status in breast cancer is assessed to select patients eligible for targeted therapy with anti-HER2 therapies. According to the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) and College of American Pathologists (CAP), the HER2 test positivity is defined by protein overexpression (score 3+) at immunohistochemistry (IHC) and/or gene amplification at in situ hybridization (ISH). The introduction of novel anti-HER2 compounds, however, is changing this paradigm because some breast cancers with lower levels of protein expression (i.e. score 1+/2+ with no gene amplification) benefited from HER2 antibody-drug conjugates (ADC). Recently, a potential for HER2 targeting in HER2 "ultra-low" (i.e. score 0 with incomplete and faint staining in ≤10% of tumor cells) and MutL-deficient estrogen receptor (estrogen receptor)-positive/HER2-negative breast cancers has been highlighted. All these novel findings are transforming the traditional dichotomy of HER2 status and have dramatically raised the expectations in this field. Still, a more aware HER2 status assessment coupled with the comprehensive characterization of the clinical and molecular features of these tumors is required. Here, we seek to provide an overview of the current state of HER2 targeting in breast cancers beyond the canonical HER2 positivity and to discuss the practical implications for pathologists and oncologists.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Venetis
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Edoardo Crimini
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Division of Early Drug Development for Innovative Therapy, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Elham Sajjadi
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Corti
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Division of Early Drug Development for Innovative Therapy, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Guerini-Rocco
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Viale
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Curigliano
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Division of Early Drug Development for Innovative Therapy, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Carmen Criscitiello
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Division of Early Drug Development for Innovative Therapy, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- *Correspondence: Nicola Fusco, ; Carmen Criscitiello,
| | - Nicola Fusco
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- *Correspondence: Nicola Fusco, ; Carmen Criscitiello,
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Sajjadi E, Venetis K, Piciotti R, Gambini D, Blundo C, Runza L, Ferrero S, Guerini-Rocco E, Fusco N. Combined analysis of PTEN, HER2, and hormone receptors status: remodeling breast cancer risk profiling. BMC Cancer 2021; 21:1152. [PMID: 34706703 PMCID: PMC8555186 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-021-08889-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) loss is associated with tumorigenesis, tumor progression, and therapy resistance in breast cancer. However, the clinical value of PTEN as a biomarker in these patients is controversial. We sought to determine whether the benefit of traditional biomarkers testing is improved by the analysis of PTEN status for the identification of high-risk breast cancer. METHODS A cohort of 608 patients with breast cancer was included in this study. Based on the expression on the neoplastic cells compared to the normal internal controls by immunohistochemistry (IHC), cases were classified as PTEN-low (PTEN-L) or PTEN-retained (PTEN-WT). The former constituted the study group, while the latter the control group. Analysis of gene expression was performed on publicly available genomic data and included 4265 patients from the METABRIC and MSK cohorts retrieved from cBioPortal. The Shapiro-Wilk test was used to analyze the normal distributions of continuous variables. Relationships between PTEN status and the clinicopathologic and molecular features of the patient population were assessed using Fisher's exact test or Chi-squared/Wilcoxon rank-sum test. Survival curves were built according to the Kaplan-Meier method. RESULTS Alteration in PTEN status was significantly different at protein and gene levels, where the reduced protein expression was observed in 280/608 cases (46.1%) from our group, while genetic aberrations in only 315/4265 (7.4%) cases of the METABRIC and MSK cohorts. PTEN-L tumors were significantly enriched for hormone receptors (HR) and HER2 negativity (n = 48, 17.1%) compared to PTEN-WT tumors (n = 22, 6.7%; p = 0.0008). Lack of HR with or without HER2 overexpression/amplification was significantly associated with worse overall survival (OS) in PTEN-L but not in PTEN-WT breast cancers (p < .0001). Moreover, PTEN-L protein expression but not gene alterations was related to the outcome, in terms of both OS and disease-free survival (p = 0.002). CONCLUSIONS The combined analysis of PTEN, HER2, and HR status offers relevant information for a more precise risk assessment of patients with breast cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elham Sajjadi
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Via Festa del Perdono 7, 20122, Milan, Italy
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Via Giuseppe Ripamonti 435, 20141, Milan, Italy
| | - Konstantinos Venetis
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Via Festa del Perdono 7, 20122, Milan, Italy
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Via Giuseppe Ripamonti 435, 20141, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto Piciotti
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Via Festa del Perdono 7, 20122, Milan, Italy
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Via Giuseppe Ripamonti 435, 20141, Milan, Italy
| | - Donatella Gambini
- Division of Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda - Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Francesco Sforza 35, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Concetta Blundo
- Breast Surgery Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda - Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Francesco Sforza 35, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Letterio Runza
- Division of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda - Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Francesco Sforza 35, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Ferrero
- Division of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda - Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Francesco Sforza 35, 20122, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical, and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, Via della Commenda 10, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Guerini-Rocco
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Via Festa del Perdono 7, 20122, Milan, Italy
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Via Giuseppe Ripamonti 435, 20141, Milan, Italy
| | - Nicola Fusco
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Via Festa del Perdono 7, 20122, Milan, Italy.
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Via Giuseppe Ripamonti 435, 20141, Milan, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Venetis K, Fusco N, Sajjadi E. Commentary: Mismatch Repair Deficiency and Microsatellite Instability in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: A Retrospective Study of 440 Patients. Front Oncol 2021; 11:735476. [PMID: 34660298 PMCID: PMC8511768 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.735476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Venetis
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Nicola Fusco
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Elham Sajjadi
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Criscitiello C, Guerini-Rocco E, Viale G, Fumagalli C, Sajjadi E, Venetis K, Piciotti R, Invernizzi M, Malapelle U, Fusco N. Immunotherapy in Breast Cancer Patients: A Focus on the Use of the Currently Available Biomarkers in Oncology. Anticancer Agents Med Chem 2021; 22:787-800. [PMID: 34229592 DOI: 10.2174/1871520621666210706144112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 01/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have remarkably modified the way solid tumors are managed, including breast cancer. Unfortunately, only a relatively small number of breast cancer patients significantly respond to these treatments. To maximize the immunotherapy benefit in breast cancer, several efforts are currently being put forward for the identification of i) the best therapeutic strategy (i.e. ICI monotherapy or in association with chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or other drugs); ii) the optimal timing for administration (e.g. early/advanced stage of disease; adjuvant/neoadjuvant setting); iii) the most effective and reliable predictive biomarkers of response (e.g. tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, programmed death-ligand 1, microsatellite instability associated with mismatch repair deficiency, and tumor mutational burden). This article reviews the impacts and gaps in the characterization of immune-related biomarkers raised by clinical and translational research studies with immunotherapy treatments. Particular emphasis has been put on the documented evidence of significant clinical benefits of ICI in different randomized clinical trials, along with preanalytical and analytical issues in predictive biomarkers pathological assessment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Giulia Viale
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Caterina Fumagalli
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Elham Sajjadi
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Italy
| | | | - Roberto Piciotti
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Invernizzi
- Physical and Rehabilitative Medicine, Department of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Piedmont, Viale Piazza D'Armi 1, Novara, Italy
| | - Umberto Malapelle
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Nicola Fusco
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, University of Milan, Via Giuseppe Ripamonti 435, 20141, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Venetis K, Piciotti R, Sajjadi E, Invernizzi M, Morganti S, Criscitiello C, Fusco N. Breast Cancer with Bone Metastasis: Molecular Insights and Clinical Management. Cells 2021; 10:cells10061377. [PMID: 34199522 PMCID: PMC8229615 DOI: 10.3390/cells10061377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the remarkable advances in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer patients, the presence or development of metastasis remains an incurable condition. Bone is one of the most frequent sites of distant dissemination and negatively impacts on patient's survival and overall frailty. The interplay between tumor cells and the bone microenvironment induces bone destruction and tumor progression. To date, the clinical management of bone metastatic breast cancer encompasses anti-tumor systemic therapies along with bone-targeting agents, aimed at slowing bone resorption to reduce the risk of skeletal-related events. However, their effect on patients' survival remains controversial. Unraveling the biology that governs the interplay between breast neoplastic cells and bone tissue would provide means for the development of new therapeutic agents. This article outlines the state-of-the art in the characterization and targeting the bone metastasis in breast cancer, focusing on the major clinical and translational studies on this clinically relevant topic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Venetis
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, 20141 Milan, Italy; (K.V.); (R.P.); (E.S.); (S.M.)
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, 20141 Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto Piciotti
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, 20141 Milan, Italy; (K.V.); (R.P.); (E.S.); (S.M.)
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, 20141 Milan, Italy
| | - Elham Sajjadi
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, 20141 Milan, Italy; (K.V.); (R.P.); (E.S.); (S.M.)
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, 20141 Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Invernizzi
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Piedmont, 28100 Novara, Italy;
- Infrastruttura Ricerca Formazione Innovazione (IRFI), Azienda Ospedaliera SS. Antonio e Biagio e Cesare Arrigo, 15121 Alessandria, Italy
| | - Stefania Morganti
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, 20141 Milan, Italy; (K.V.); (R.P.); (E.S.); (S.M.)
- Division of Early Drug Development for Innovative Therapies, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, 20141 Milan, Italy
| | - Carmen Criscitiello
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, 20141 Milan, Italy; (K.V.); (R.P.); (E.S.); (S.M.)
- Division of Early Drug Development for Innovative Therapies, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, 20141 Milan, Italy
- Correspondence: (C.C.); (N.F.); Tel.: +39-02-9437-2079 (N.F.)
| | - Nicola Fusco
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, 20141 Milan, Italy; (K.V.); (R.P.); (E.S.); (S.M.)
- Division of Pathology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, 20141 Milan, Italy
- Correspondence: (C.C.); (N.F.); Tel.: +39-02-9437-2079 (N.F.)
| |
Collapse
|